Last updated November 26, 2024--
Sasquatch Duro is part of the Oregon Triple Crown Series produced by Mudslinger Events, a premier producer of cycling events in the Pacific Northwest. Sasquatch Duro 2025 is an adventurous gravel ride that, in years past, was run mostly on logging roads just East of Eugene, OR, in and around the towns of Oakridge and Westfir. The 2025 edition will have a new route, so look for updates closer to the event date. Strambecco rates Sasquatch as one of the Best Gravel Events in the Northwest and Oregon.
Unfortunately, the 2024 event was cancelled due to fire danger; however, typically, there are three routes to select, and the top three awards are given to winners in all ten age groups. Although the 2025 routes have not been announced, you can use the following as a rough guide. The Monster Squatch is 54 miles and has a gain of 7,100+ feet of elevation. Big Squatch is a loop of 47 miles and nearly 6,700 feet elevation gain. Little Squatch is the shortest option, with 32 miles and almost 4,500 feet of elevation gain. There are Aid Stations along the way with hydration and food-like products from Hammer Nutrition, and the post-event includes a finish party and beverages at 10 Barrel Brewing. The event also supports the Oakridge Trails Alliance, whose mission is to preserve and protect the Alpine Trail system and trails throughout the Willamette National Forest.
Although the competitive routes are gravel, all participants are encouraged to bring mountain bikes to play around the Oregon mountains for the weekend. This area is known as "The Kingdom of Gravel" and the Mountain Bike Capital of the Northwest. Some of the most popular mountain biking trails in the Oakridge area include The Alpine Trail, offering approximately 25 miles of challenging singletrack. It features a mix of technical sections, fast descents, and stunning alpine scenery. Hardesty Trail is a favorite among intermediate and advanced riders. It features flowy sections, berms, and jumps. The trail offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and forests. Finally, Dead Mountain Trail is a diverse option with a combination of technical features and flowy sections. It boasts scenic views, technical rock gardens, and challenging climbs.
Oakridge and Westfir have many restaurants along Willamette Highway, like Stewart's 58 Drive-In. There are also many places to stay in or near the Willamette River. See various hotels or campgrounds like Westfir Lodge, Oakridge Inn & Suites, or Tired Dog Ranch while there are also a lot of great vacation rentals if you are looking to stay as a family or group. Free event camping on site for tent and vehicle, with options for RV at Greenwaters Park.
Mudslinger Events was formed by Michael Ripley, an enthusiastic mountain biker who grew up in Eugene, Oregon. The organization brings people together to explore the gorgeous outdoor areas of Oregon. Sasquatch Duro is part of the Oregon Triple Crown Series, which includes several events from April to August: Oregon Coast Gravel Epic, West Coast Gravel, Oregon Gran Fondo, Sasquatch Duro, and Takelma Gravel Grinder. People interested in participating can register for each event separately or benefit from the OTC Series Pass, which includes price discounts, bike accessories, and prizes associated with the timed-event awards.
Mudslinger also produces the Oregon XC Series, six premier Oregon MTB events spanning April to September, and some of the Best Mountain Bike Events in the Northwest. The Oregon XC Series includes Mudslinger XC, Sisters Stampede, Oregon 24/12, High Cascades 100, and Ring of Fire.
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