Last Updated April 2, 2024
Please note we are awaiting confirmation on 2024 event date and details.
The famous 12 Hours of Bradbury Mountain is back – a truly classic and locally known favorite, this 12-hour endurance race loops a standardized 7-mile loop in the visually stunning Bradbury State Park. The Strambecco team considers it one of the Best Mountain Bike Events in New England. If you have never attended a 12-hour or 24-hour mountain bike race, when well organized, they are absolutely off the charts, and it is an amazing time if done with partners. The 12 hours of Bradbury Mountain is no different and can be considered one of the best and well-attended 12/24 hour mountain bike events in the United States. The 12 Hours of Bradbury Mountain is produced by Gear Works Productions and Back 40 Events and is capped at 300 participants, making the event even more special and exclusive.
Event & Course Info
The course loop is 7 miles with an elevation gain of 395 ft. like the traditional 12/24 hour mountain bike races, there are options for a 4-person team, 3-person team, two people, and for the craziest of the crazy, a solo category. There are sub-options for the team categories when signing up for woman- and men-only teams and co-ed teams. At the tenting and main area where the race starts and stops per lap, there will be a full-fledged nutritional aid station, some great food, and drinks for the riders taking a rest and families of participants of 12 Hours of Bradbury Mountain.
Area Accommodations & Things to Do
Pownal, Maine, located in the southern part of the state, is a charming rural community known for its scenic beauty and tranquil landscapes, offering a peaceful retreat amidst rolling hills and verdant forests.
12 Hours of Bradbury Mountain riders can camp on-site at Bradbury Mountain State Park for the most convenience. At the same time, other options include the KOA, Blueberry Pond Campground, or other unique camping locations.
The closest hotels will be in Freeport or you could also do the 30 minute drive to/from Portland which will have great options. The Hilton Garden Inn, The Harraseeket Inn and Suites, and the Bliss Farm Inn are all nearby. Those who prefer a more home-like experience can explore vacation rentals like this cottage or this yurt.
While Pownal is a quaint rural town with limited culinary establishments, the surrounding areas, particularly nearby Portland, boast a vibrant food scene ranging from fresh seafood havens to farm-to-table eateries, reflecting Maine’s rich gastronomic heritage and coastal influences. Check out Eater’s list of must-visit spots for the 12 Hours of Bradbury Mountain while in town.
For outdoor enthusiasts and athletes, this serene town and its surroundings become an unparalleled playground. Bradbury Mountain State Park where the race takes place is also a favorite for hikers. The ‘Northern Loop’ and ‘Summit Trail’ are excellent choices for a moderate hike. They offer a combination of woodland stretches and open ledges, culminating in panoramic views at the summit. Athletes looking for a more challenging workout can opt for the ‘Boundary Trail’, which offers a steeper and rockier climb.
If you haven’t had enough mountain biking, check out Pineland Farms. Spanning 5,000 acres, Pineland Farms is not just an active agricultural facility but also a recreational hub. Its extensive network of well-maintained trails provides the perfect setting for mountain bikers. The ‘Perimeter Trail’ offers a challenging 7.5-mile loop with varied terrains, while the ‘Campus Loop’ is a shorter 3-mile trail, perfect for a quick ride amidst the pastoral beauty.
Finally, the gentle flow of the Royal River, which winds its way through the region, offers a serene kayaking or paddle-boarding experience, especially enchanting in the mellow light of September. Starting at Elmwood Road in Pownal and paddling downstream towards Yarmouth provides a scenic route. Along the way, kayakers can relish the sight of dense forests on the banks, occasionally interspersed with meadows.
Related Events
Another top-shelf mountain biking event in Maine to add to your bucket list is Carrabassett Backountry Challenge, part of the National Ultra Endurance Series (NUE). In contrast, Wilmington Whiteface from Life Time Events, part of the Leadville Race Series MTB, and 24 Hours of Great Glenn are others in the broader region that are worth checking out.
For multi-sport endurance athletes looking for other events in Maine and the broader New England region, check out our full list of Strambecco Best in Class road, gravel cycling, and trail running events.
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