Mudslinger XC 2026

Mudslinger XC 2026

Presented by Mudslinger Events
Mountain Biking
Blodgett, OR
Apr 18, 2026
Register

About This Event

Running since 1987, the Mudslinger XC stands as one of the Northwest’s oldest mountain bike races and serves as the second event in the prestigious Oregon XC Series. This early-April race in Blodgett, Oregon draws hundreds of riders from across the Pacific Northwest for what’s become a beloved season opener with genuine vintage mountain biking atmosphere.

The two course options explore the region’s logging heritage through a mix of old-school logging roads and 30% singletrack. Race organizers recommend a beefy front tire for good reason—the event has a 40% rain probability each year, adding to its muddy reputation. The long course offers either an 11 or 19-mile loop featuring well-maintained logging road climbs that spread riders out before diving into tight, thrilling singletrack sections. While the original 32-mile, 5000-foot climbing routes have been scaled back, this remains a robust early-season challenge. The short course shares the first 3.7 miles with the long route before diverging into a more compact option ideal for newcomers or those seeking a less demanding effort.

The event accommodates 250 riders through structured wave starts across 33 categories, from ranked categories (Cat 1-4) to fun divisions like single speed and fat tire. Based at Blodgett School, the race creates a community atmosphere that extends well beyond the finish line.

Post-race celebrations are integral to the Mudslinger experience. Awards begin at 12:30 pm for short course finishers, followed by long course recognition at 1:00 pm. The top three in each category receive custom awards, with cash prizes for overall long course champions. Food vendors serve participants and spectators from 10 am to 2:30 pm, completing the festive atmosphere that keeps riders returning year after year.

Mudslinger Events

Event Organizer
View organizer Visit website

Mudslinger Events is a well-established organizer of some of the best mountain bike, gravel, and mixed-surface races in the Pacific Northwest. Founded by Mike Ripley, a passionate mountain biker from Oregon, Mudslinger Events has been a key player in the cycling community since 1987, bringing a vintage atmosphere to modern mountain biking and cross-country racing.

Prominent Events Organized by Mudslinger Events:

  1. Mudslinger XC
    • Description: One of the oldest mountain bike races in the Northwest, the Mudslinger XC has been a fixture on the Oregon cycling calendar since 1987. This race is known for its challenging courses that weave through the beautiful forests of Oregon, making it a must-ride event for mountain biking enthusiasts. It is part of the Oregon XC Series.
    • Link: Mudslinger XC Details
  2. High Cascades 100
    • Description: This is the ultimate endurance mountain bike race, covering 100 miles with nearly 10,000 feet of elevation gain. Held in Bend, Oregon, the High Cascades 100 is part of both the Oregon XC Series and the National Ultra Endurance Series, attracting top riders nationwide. The race is known for its demanding course and stunning scenery.
    • Link: High Cascades 100 Details
  3. Oregon 24/12
    • Description: An overnight mountain biking event in Bend, Oregon, where participants can ride for either 24 or 12 hours. The event is part of the Oregon XC Series and is beloved for its challenging course and vibrant community atmosphere. Riders can choose to compete solo or in teams, making it a versatile and exciting challenge.
    • Link: Oregon 24/12 Details
  4. Oregon Triple Crown Series
    • Description: A series of five premier gravel and mixed-surface events, including the Oregon Coast Gravel Epic and Sasquatch Duro. These events are recognized as some of the best gravel races in the Northwest, offering a variety of terrains and challenges for gravel enthusiasts.
    • Link: Oregon Triple Crown Series Details

Mudslinger Events continues to thrive, offering a range of well-organized and highly regarded races that attract cyclists from across the country, with each event providing a unique blend of challenge, community, and natural beauty.  You can also view all of Strambecco’s Best-in-Class events covering the Northwest including Road, Gravel and MTB events.

Also presented by
Oregon XC Series

More from Mudslinger Events

More Events in Northwest

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