Updated April 2, 2024
As the name implies, the Breck Epic, America’s premiere 6-day mountain bike stage race is indeed EPIC. A mountain biking event with humble beginnings, the 15th edition in 2024 promises to take you back to the roots of the sport, so it’s no surprise that the team here at Strambecco considers the Breck Epic to be one of the Best Mountain Biking Events in Colorado and the Rockies. Six big single-track stages that range between 35 and 50 miles, make this no joke. The daily race routes of the Breck Epic are thoughtfully chosen by local experts and the organizer, Greenspeed Project, which gives the courses an extremely fun mix of big climbs and big descents. The race is generally 220-240 miles long total and ‘features’ roughly 40,000′ feet of vertical gain and loss throughout the stages. The event maintains a high quality race experience with a 400 rider field limit, drawing riders from over 25 countries and 40 states annually. The Breck Epic stands apart for its refreshing approach to mountain biking, emphasizing big rides with friends, camaraderie, and a challenging backcountry course that promises to enrich every participant.
Event & Course Info
The 2024 Breck Epic courses are very similar to the prior year, and the event organizers have meticulously designed each stage, asking themselves the question: “What big rides would we want to tackle if we had most of the day to slaughter and 6 of our best friends along for the ride?” The result is a series of stages that capture the essence of mountain biking dreams – from long, rhythmic climbs to exhilarating descents. The six backcountry loops each day kick off at 8:30am and showcase a cloverleaf format that starts and finishes within a mile from downtown Breckenridge. Here’s an overview of the 2023 stages:
Stage 1: Pennsylvania Creek (35.7 miles/5700’)
Starting and finishing at the Ice Rink, this stage introduces you to the heart-pounding adventure with long middle-ring climbs and thrilling descents. Expect to be greeted by 3 aid stations at strategic points to refuel and refresh.
Stage 2: The Colorado Trail (42.5 miles/6565’/2 aid stations)
Starting at Lower Washington and finishing at B&B Trailhead, this stage takes you on an epic journey with a mix of challenging terrain. Notable changes for 2023 include a new option for the return leg that adds a twist to the adventure, and eliminates a long and sun-baked section of chunky gravel
Stage 3: The Circumnavigation of Mt. Guyot (40.5 miles/7100’/3 aid stations)
This stage features a unique dress code – Onesie Wednesday! You’ll experience breathtaking views as you cross the Continental Divide twice and enjoy a skittles hand-up at the top of French Pass.
Stage 4: Aqueduct (42.3 miles/6473’/3 aid stations)
As you navigate this stage, you’ll encounter the Galena Ditch Trail singletrack and other exciting sections that provide a unique flavor to the course. The 2023 changes include eliminating the fast chunky Summit Gulch Road downhill and replacing it with flowy Galena Ditch Trail singletrack.
Stage 5: Wheeler (24.6 miles/5227’/2 aid stations)
Stage 5 offers a shorter distance but no shortage of challenges. A 10-rider time trial format adds a competitive edge to this exhilarating stage.
Stage 6: The Gold Dust Trail (30.2 miles/3740’/2 aid stations)
The final stage promises a grand finish with a PBR hand-up and a unique route that takes you through the scenic beauty of generously allowed private property.
The Breck Epic boasts a purse and awards, with $10,000 evenly split between pro men and women, paid five deep. Nightly awards are presented five-deep in all other categories, ensuring that participants are recognized for their remarkable achievements. Categories include 6-day Solo, 6-day Duo (teams of two), and 3-day Solo, offering a variety of options to suit different preferences.
In addition to the challenges and rewards of the race itself, participants can expect an atmosphere of mid-90s mayhem combined with the beauty of Breckenridge, CO. The town’s incredible food, welcoming community, and stunning weather create the perfect backdrop for a week-long mountain biking adventure like no other.
Area Accommodations & Things to Do
Despite there being endless lodging options around Breckenridge, Beaver Run Resort is hands down the best option for those participating in the full Breck Epic stage race with essentially all critical race events taking place here all week. Alternatively, you are also able to reserve a parking lot camping spot.
After race body work care is going to be available every day by reservation through Mountain Massage, sports medicine specialists, and the resort spa.
The resort also houses a variety of dining options with Spencer’s being the best option for breakfast, Skywalk Market for groceries or pizza, and Base 9 Bar for beer and dining. Banquets will be held for both the 3-day and 6-day awards ceremonies. And don’t forget, that things will be lighting up after race events have concluded at the Gold Pan Saloon.
Downtown Breckenridge has so much to offer with a wide variety of shopping and restaurants. It boasts a vibrant culinary scene that caters to both food connoisseurs and casual diners alike. With a fusion of locally sourced ingredients and international flavors, the town’s restaurants offer a diverse range of dining experiences from cozy mountain bistros serving up hearty comfort food to upscale eateries showcasing innovative gourmet creations and artisanal cocktails. Some local favorites worth checking out are Cabin Juice, Piante Pizzeria, and Blue River Bistro.
For those looking to make an even longer trip out of the Breck Epic and want a change of scenery, check out The Bivvy and Gravity Haus for two boutique lodging options that are catered towards outdoor enthusiasts as well as endless vacation rentals. There are also some unique camping options south of town.
Related Events
While the Breck Epic is the only actively running event produced by Greenspeed Project, they are veteran organizers who have put on other top events in Colorado in the past including Vail’s Outlier Offroad Festival and The Vail 100. For the multi-discipline cyclists, another event taking place the week prior also in Summit County is the Copper Triangle road cycling event by The Ride Collective one of the Best Road Cycling Events in Colorado and the Rockies.
