Updated August 27, 2024
If you're a mountain biking enthusiast seeking the ultimate challenge, the War Daddy race in Hyden, Kentucky, promises to test your strength, strategy, skill, and even a bit of luck. This 68-mile race is not just about physical endurance but also mental resilience as you navigate through diverse terrains, from pristine pavement to daunting dirt and double-track trails. The race is known for its scenic beauty, historic roads, and Southern hospitality, making it a must-visit event for any avid cyclist. Organized by Trail Sick, a well-known outdoor event organizer in Kentucky and the local community of Hyden, the event is a highlight in the MTB calendar. Strambecco rates War Daddy as one of the Best MTB Race Events in the South Central and one of the Best Mountain Biking Race Events in Kentucky.
Event Course & Info
War Daddy stands out due to its varied terrain and the sheer challenge it presents with 68 miles of riding and over 8,000 ft of climbing. Starting with a neutral rollout through the city of Hyden, racers will encounter everything from steep climbs and fast descents to technical sections filled with chunky sandstone and slick mountain streams. The course kicks off with a flat, 5-mile neutral rollout, setting a calm pace before hitting the Owl’s Nest Climb—a 1.3-mile ascent with an average grade of 6.9%, transitioning from pavement to gravel.
The race continues through a mix of gravel and pavement for the next 12 miles, offering long descents, rolling terrain, and scenic views along the Middle Fork of the Kentucky River. The next major challenge is the War Baby Climb, a steep 1.2-mile stretch with an average grade of 8.4%, which combines pavement and chunky gravel with pitches as steep as 20-30%.
Following this, participants face a technical descent through sandstone and mountain streams, navigating deep sand and packed gravel for 1.5 miles before hitting the War Dwarf Climb. This 2-mile climb, with an average grade of 6%, leads to a fast descent on Hell for Certain Road, a narrow, one-lane paved road that lasts for 2 miles.
Racers then tackle the Twist N’ Sourwood and Granny’s Branch Climb, a 2-mile section of mixed surfaces with a mild grade. The route continues through the Redbird Management Area to the daunting War Daddy Climb, nearly 1 mile with an average grade of 10.8%, featuring loose, chunky, and sharp rocks.
The final stretches include a 4-mile ATV trail with steep pitches, rutted sections, and deep mud holes, followed by a 6-mile ride through an abandoned strip mine area, characterized by tough climbs and fast descents before reaching the finish line.
A shorter race option, Sandlin's Shred, is available for those seeking a less intense course. This race is a great alternative for riders not quite ready for the full War Daddy but still eager for a challenge. Sandlin's Shred information can be found here, although it may be tricky to locate as some details are hidden within a dropdown menu with white text.
The race features four well-stocked aid stations at miles 20, 33, 43, and 54, providing snacks, hydration, and mechanical support. Participants can also send drop bags to any of these stations for additional supplies. The aid stations are renowned for their friendly volunteers and Southern hospitality, offering cold beverages and a variety of snacks to keep racers fueled and motivated.
Completion cutoff times vary by aid station, and racers should be prepared to complete within a specified timeframe. The neutral rollout begins in the morning, with the exact start time to be confirmed closer to the event. Awards and celebrations include custom-made prizes for podium finishers, with potential payout prizes for open category winners.
Area Accommodations & Things to Do
Coming soon! Lodging options include Mary Breckinridge's Wendover, local Airbnbs, and nearby hotels like Heritage Inn & Suites in Manchester and Hampton Inn & Suites in Hazard.
Related Events
Multi-sport athletes looking for other premier races and events in Kentucky and the broader South Central region can take a peek at all of our related Strambecco Best-rated event guides.
