Name: Fox US Open of Mountain Biking 2026
Start: 2026-09-24T00:00:00-04:00
End: 2026-09-27T23:59:59-04:00
Location: Killington, Vermont

About This Event

Established in 2003, the Fox US Open of Mountain Biking has evolved into America’s premier mountain bike festival, bringing together riders from weekend warriors to Red Bull-sponsored pros. The Open Pro/Am format means anyone can compete alongside elite athletes for substantial cash prizes, with downhill winners earning $15,000.

Killington Resort’s September setting delivers ideal conditions with warm days, cool nights, and emerging fall foliage creating a spectacular backdrop. The festival atmosphere combines serious competition with a celebration of mountain biking culture, featuring live music, extensive vendor expo, and family-friendly activities.

The event spans multiple disciplines across Killington’s terrain. The downhill race launches from Ramshead Peak, incorporating sections of the notorious “Goat Skull” trail plus custom-built features designed specifically for the competition. The dual slalom track mixes grassy turns, jumps, and berms in a spectator-friendly format that works well with enduro bikes.

The enduro competition features multi-stage racing on Killington’s classic trails with surprise elements, though course maps remain secret until event week. The Red Bull Best Whip contest showcases aerial skills on purpose-built jumps at the main venue. Youth downhill racing caters to experienced young riders with courses ranging from “Rabbit Hole” for developing skills to the main USO track for experts.

Free spectating encourages community involvement, while a $15 gondola ticket provides front-row access to the action. On-site camping and RV parking create an authentic festival experience, and local bike shops offer pre-event tune-ups and support.

mountain biker at fox us open of mountain biking

The US Open Downhill Series is a prestigious mountain biking competition series in the United States, attracting top downhill (DH) racers and free riders from across the country and worldwide. Known for challenging courses that push riders to their limits, the series is designed to provide elite and amateur racers alike the chance to compete on technical, high-stakes downhill tracks. The US Open focuses on creating an inclusive and accessible racing environment, offering substantial prize purses, open registration for various skill levels, and emphasising community and rider development.

Key Events in the US Open Downhill Series

US Open of Mountain Biking
The crown jewel of the series, the US Open of Mountain Biking, is an annual event known for its intense downhill race and high-energy atmosphere. This flagship event occurs at iconic locations like Snowshoe Mountain, West Virginia, or Killington, Vermont. It brings together elite DH athletes for a fast-paced, high-adrenaline course that tests technical skills, speed, and precision. The event includes categories for amateur riders, allowing aspiring racers to compete on the same course as the pros.
Dual Slalom
Adding variety to the series, the Dual Slalom races are fan favorites. Riders go head-to-head on parallel tracks featuring berms, jumps, and rollers. This format emphasizes quick reflexes, agility, and cornering skills as racers battle through tight turns and exciting obstacles. Dual Slalom races often draw crowds for their high-energy atmosphere and thrilling finishes.
Enduro Races
The US Open Downhill Series also includes Enduro races, which allow riders to demonstrate their endurance and technical skills over a range of trail types, from steep descents to challenging climbs. These races are typically held on rugged, mountainous terrain, testing riders’ stamina and versatility in timed stages spread across a single or multiple days.
Whip-Off Contests and Jump Jams
For those who enjoy style as much as speed, the series hosts Whip-Off Contests and Jump Jams, giving freeride and DH enthusiasts a chance to showcase their biggest tricks and smoothest jumps. These contests are high-energy spectacles judged for style, amplitude, and crowd engagement, adding a fun, freestyle dimension to the series.

The US Open Downhill Series is celebrated for its competitive racing and supportive and inclusive environment. Newcomers and veterans alike come together to push the limits of downhill mountain biking. With a focus on top-notch course design and a commitment to rider experience, the US Open continues to be a premier event series on the North American DH circuit.