Wente 2025 – Rated

Name: Wente 2025 – Rated
Start: 2025-05-31T00:00:00-04:00
End: 2025-05-31T23:59:59-04:00
Location: Willits, CA

May 31, 2025

Updated November 6, 2024

As a mountain biking enthusiast, there's nothing quite like the allure of the Wente 8-Hour MTB Relay Race in Willits, California. This event, brought to life by Bike Monkey, is more than just a race; it's a three-day festival of family camping, camaraderie, and challenging rides. Held at the scenic Wente Scout Reservation, this event is renowned for its unique combination of competition and community. Strambecco rates Wente as one of the Best Mountain Biking Race Events in the Northwest and one of the Best Mountain Biking Race Events in California. Here’s why the Wente 8-Hour MTB Relay Race is a must-attend event for mountain biking enthusiasts.

Event Course & Info

The Wente 8-Hour MTB Relay Race is set in the picturesque Wente Scout Reservation, a private scout camp that offers a pristine and challenging course exclusively available during race weekend. The race features an 8-mile loop with a staggering 1,745 feet of climbing, designed to test the mettle of both solo riders and teams. The terrain includes a mix of technical sections, berms, and rolling singletrack, providing a dynamic and engaging ride from start to finish.

The 8-mile course is known for its elevation gain of 1,745 feet, featuring a variety of technical sections that challenge riders’ skills. The loop takes riders through the diverse landscapes of the Wente Scout Reservation, with berms, rocky climbs, and scenic views that make every lap an adventure.

The course is well-supported with strategically placed aid stations providing water, nutrition, and mechanical assistance. This ensures that all participants can stay hydrated and maintain their bikes throughout the race.

The event is limited to 550 competitors, ensuring a high-quality experience for all participants. The race kicks off at 8:00 am on Saturday, with all racers starting together. Laps must be completed by 5:00 pm when timing stops, though rain might shorten the race. Riders can start a lap up until 4:00 pm, and each lap time begins when the previous one is completed, making it a continuous challenge for endurance and speed.

The awards ceremony takes place at 5:30 pm on race day, recognizing the top three finishers in all categories. If a category has more than 30 teams or soloists, the podium extends to the top five finishers. Participants must be present to collect their prizes, adding to the communal and celebratory atmosphere of the event.

The event includes a pre-race expo with gear, food, and sponsor exhibits, enhancing the overall experience. Participants enjoy a post-race meal, beverages, and an ice cream social, creating a festive environment for racers and their families. The Wente Scout Reservation provides a beautiful setting for camping, with level, tented platforms and open camping in designated areas.

Registration for the Wente 8-Hour MTB Relay Race is highly competitive due to its popularity. The cost includes access to all race amenities, a commemorative t-shirt, a post-race meal, and beverages. Additional meals are available for purchase, and van campsites can be reserved in advance. Participants are encouraged to carpool to reduce congestion and ensure a smooth arrival experience.

Check out the official 2025 Race Field Guide for all of the nitty gritty details.

Area Accommodations & Things to Do

Coming soon!

Related Events

Bike Monkey is Northern California's premier road, gravel, and MTB event producer. Sister events include Levi's Gran Fondo, Fish Rock, Heart of Gold, Wente, Truckee Dirt Fondo, Hammer Road Rally, Stetina’s Pay Dirt, The Bovine Classic, and Rebecca's Private Idaho. Bike Monkey events are supported with SAG vehicles, well-stocked feed stations, and post-ride festivals.

For multi-sport endurance athletes looking for other events in the state of California, NorCal, and the broader Northwest region, be sure to check out our full list of Strambecco Best in Class rated races and events: