Dakota Five-O 2026

Dakota Five-O 2026

Presented by Ridge Rider Racing
Mountain Biking
Spearfish, SD
Aug 30, 2026
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About This Event

This 50-mile mountain bike race in early autumn delivers 90% singletrack through the Black Hills with over 6,500 feet of climbing and demanding technical sections. The course follows a distinctive “lollipop loop” format starting from Spearfish City Park with a mass rollout up Tinton Road before merging onto the serpentine Tinton Trail singletrack.

The course direction alternates annually, keeping returning riders on their toes. Even years run clockwise through Twin Bridges gully to the first aid station at Big Hill Trailhead (mile 11), then wind through the Big Hill Trail system where cattle encounters add unexpected adventure. Riders tackle Cardiac Bypass, Recovery Ridge, Old Baldy, Taco Alley, Sheep Steeps, and Dakota Ridge before reaching the legendary Bacon Station at mile 38, where bacon and PBR provide mid-race fuel.

Odd years reverse the route, starting with the rapid K-Nectar trail and steep Dakota Ridge climb, followed by Stadium Ridge, Old Baldy, and Recovery Ridge before the Big Hill system. The Bacon Station appears at mile 37 in this direction.

Aid stations are strategically placed throughout, with strict cutoffs at Old Baldy (1:30 pm even years, 2:00 pm odd years). The technical terrain and substantial elevation gain demand serious preparation and bike handling skills.

Post-race festivities at Spearfish City Park feature music, food, and cold beer. Cash prizes reward the top five men and women finishers, with custom trophies and special awards. The weekend includes a Friday pre-party with live music and industry expo, plus Sunday’s awards ceremony and evening after-party at Killian’s Tavern.

Ridge Rider Racing

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Ridge Rider Racing is renowned for organizing some of the most thrilling and challenging cycling events in the Midwest, bringing together cycling enthusiasts from across the region to test their mettle against the rugged landscapes of South Dakota. Among their premier events are the Dakota Five-O and the Pine Island Gravel Odyssey, each offering a unique blend of physical challenge and scenic beauty that captures the essence of adventure cycling.

The Dakota Five-O, held in early Fall in Spearfish, South Dakota, is a legendary 50-mile mountain bike race known for its adrenaline-pumping course. It features an astonishing 90% singletrack, over 6500 feet of climbing, and technical sections that demand true grit and skill from participants. The race starts with a mass rollout from Spearfish City Park, and the course direction alternates yearly, keeping the challenge fresh for returning competitors. The event is celebrated for the race and the weekend-long festivities that include live music, a pre-race party, and a post-race celebration, making it a cornerstone event in the Midwest’s mountain biking calendar​​​.

On the other hand, the Pine Island Gravel Odyssey, formerly known as the Gold Rush Gravel Grinder, is South Dakota’s premier gravel cycling event. Taking place in the majestic Black Hills National Forest under a special use permit, this event offers four distinct route options to accommodate a wide range of cyclists. It’s hailed as one of the Best Gravel Grinders in the Midwest by Strambecco, underlining its significance in the gravel cycling community for its challenging routes and breathtaking scenery​.

Both events underscore Ridge Rider Racing’s commitment to creating memorable, challenging, and enjoyable cycling experiences for participants of all levels while showcasing the natural beauty and welcoming communities of South Dakota. Whether you’re a seasoned mountain biker or a gravel grinding enthusiast, these events offer something for everyone looking to push their limits and enjoy cycling at its best.

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