Loading Events
Carrabassett Backcountry Cycle Challenge 2026

Carrabassett Backcountry Cycle Challenge 2026

Presented by National Ultra Endurance Race Series (NUE)
Mountain Biking
Carrabassett Valley, ME
Jul 11, 2026
Register

About This Event

As part of the National Ultra Endurance Series, the Carrabassett Backcountry Cycle Challenge tests riders across three distances: approximately 100K, 50K, and 25K. The courses wind through the pristine forests and mountains of Carrabassett Valley, combining technical singletrack, doubletrack, and dirt roads with steep climbs and thrilling descents.

What sets this race apart is its exceptional trail network—over 80 miles of riding built specifically for mountain biking, featuring a mix of machine-built flowy singletrack and traditional hand-carved trails. The course takes riders deep into backcountry terrain where stream crossings and punchy climbs that may require dismounting are part of the challenge. The famous creek crossing has become legendary among participants, with most riders finding it too technical to clean.

The race doubles as the largest annual fundraiser for local trail development, directly supporting the expansion of what’s becoming an iconic destination trail network. This creates a unique atmosphere where participants know their entry fees are building the future of mountain biking in the region.

Riders consistently praise the course as showcasing some of the Northeast’s best singletrack. The remote sections offer a true backcountry experience, taking you far from civilization through unspoiled wilderness. The challenging terrain demands both technical skill and mental toughness, but veterans describe crossing the finish line with enormous satisfaction.

The event attracts both competitive NUE series racers chasing points and recreational riders seeking an epic adventure on world-class trails. The mix of distances ensures accessibility while maintaining the serious endurance challenge that defines the series.

The National Ultra Endurance Race Series (NUE)  is a premier mountain bike endurance racing series in the United States dedicated to testing the limits of mountain bikers on gruelling, long-distance courses. Established to cater to the growing demand for ultra-endurance mountain biking events, the series features a variety of races across the country, showcasing some of the most challenging and scenic terrain. Riders compete in categories such as Open Men, Open Women, Masters, and Single Speed, accumulating points throughout the season, with overall champions crowned at the end of the series.

Strambecco provides detailed profiles of each event in the series, which you can see below.  Here are brief descriptions of some prominent events in the National Ultra Endurance Race Series (NUE):

Mohican MTB 100 (Ohio)

Held in the beautiful Mohican State Park, the Mohican 100 is one of the most popular and accessible races in the NUE series. Riders traverse 100 miles of rolling hills, singletrack, and technical terrain through the Ohio wilderness. The race features a mix of fast-flowing sections and demanding climbs, making it a perfect early-season endurance test.

Wilderness 101 (Pennsylvania)

One of the oldest races in the series, Wilderness 101 takes riders through the rugged terrain of the Rothrock and Bald Eagle State Forests. With 101 miles of technical singletrack, fire roads, and rocky descents, the event is renowned for its challenging climbs and demanding technical sections, providing a true test of stamina and skill.

High Cascades 100 (Oregon)

This high-altitude race occurs in the stunning Cascade Mountains, offering riders an unforgettable experience on Bend’s premier trails. The High Cascades 100 is known for its mix of volcanic rock sections, smooth singletrack, and scenic views of the Cascade Range. The elevation and technical features add to the difficulty of this race, which is a favorite among experienced endurance racers.

Tatanka 100 (South Dakota)

Named after the Lakota word for buffalo, the Tatanka 100 brings riders to the picturesque Black Hills of South Dakota. The course offers a variety of terrain, including steep climbs, rocky descents, and fast-flowing singletrack. This race also provides riders with spectacular views of the Black Hills National Forest, making it both a scenic and challenging event.

Shenandoah Mountain 100 (Virginia)

The Shenandoah Mountain 100 is a fan-favoritee event in the NUE series, held in the scenic George Washington National Forest. This race features long climbs, fast descents, and plenty of rocky and rooty singletrack, giving riders a tough but rewarding challenge. Known for its beautiful vistas and well-supported aid stations, it’s a popular race for elite competitors and weekend warriors.

Pierre’s Hole 100 (Wyoming)

Set in the breathtaking Teton Valley near the Grand Tetons, Pierre’s Hole 100 offers riders a mix of flowy singletrack, steep climbs, and technical descents. The high elevation and dramatic scenery make this race a standout in the series, while its challenging course tests both fitness and technical ability.

Each event in the NUE series provides a unique challenge, but they all share a common goal: pushing riders to their physical and mental limits across some of the most beautiful landscapes in the United States.

Strambecco For the Love of Living

Strambecco is your guide to the world's best outdoor experiences — from epic gran fondos to backcountry ski adventures. We curate the events, share the stories, and connect you with the community.

Learn More