The Cactus Cup is an iconic mountain bike race annually in the rugged terrain of McDowell Mountain Regional Park in Arizona. This event, which dates back to 1991, is recognized as Arizona’s original mountain bike stage race and has grown into a significant fixture on the mountain biking calendar, attracting riders from across the country.  See Strambecco’s full Cactus full profile here and our rankings of the Best MTB events in the Southwest.

The Cactus Cup is held over three days each March, offering a variety of race formats that challenge riders across multiple disciplines. The event includes a time trial, a short track race for professionals, cross-country (XC) races, and a thrilling enduro segment. Participants can choose to compete in individual races or take on the full-stage race to vie for the overall title of Cactus Cup champion.

A unique aspect of the Cactus Cup is its festive atmosphere, which combines fierce competition with a vibrant community feel. The event features an expo with live music, food vendors, and various outdoor activities, making it not just a race but a celebration of mountain biking culture.

One of the recent additions to the event is the “Duel in the Desert,” a collaboration with the Belgian Waffle Ride (BWR) Arizona. This combined event offers a unique challenge that includes a mountain bike race and a gravel race over consecutive weekends, adding an extra layer of difficulty and prestige for those competing in both.

McDowell Mountain Regional Park provides an ideal backdrop for the event, with its scenic trails and challenging desert landscape, ensuring that the Cactus Cup remains a favorite among mountain bikers seeking competition and adventure.

For those looking to fully immerse themselves in the experience, the area offers various accommodation options, from camping within the park to nearby hotels and resorts.​