MOUNTAIN BIKE
Course Description:
Course Map:
GoPro of 45 minutes of the course by Jake Crabtree (2023):
https://youtu.be/uApbw2Kr2NQ?feature=shared
Getting to the Start Line:
Racers will need to be dropped off by their team, friend, or family at the main Foothills Trailhead by 8:30 a.m. as there is a ½ mile ride or walk uphill to get to the start line where there will be a briefing at 8:45 a.m. before the 9 a.m. start. It takes approximately 20 minutes to get from downtown Port Angeles to the drop spot, so we recommend leaving right after the 7:30 a.m. mandatory meeting at race central downtown.
If you are an Iron Division competitor and are coming to the race solo, please email us at contact@peninsulaadventuresports.com and we will pair you up with another Iron competitor or team to give you a ride.
There is room to park for team members and spectators if they wish to watch the race start or stay to watch racers coming through after the first loop.
Directions from Pebble Beach Park: Go South on Lincoln Street to 8th Street and go Right. Follow to the 2nd light which is Pine Street and go Left. After the stop sign, it will turn into Black Diamond Road, which you will follow several miles until you come to Little River Road where you will take a Left. In 1.5 miles there will be a trailhead on your left clearly marked as “Foothills Trail System” From there you take the trail, then stay left at the fork to stay going west. At the end of the trail (logging road) turn right and to get to the Start Line.
Cyclist Competency and Safety:
The Foothills trail is a multi-use trail, including motorized recreation use, so watch for other traffic. The trails vary between smooth and flowy, to tight and rough with loose rocks. Off-road riding experience is strongly recommended. It is also strongly recommended that you use a mountain bike, ideally with a little suspension and definitely good brakes.
The bike racer must be capable of racing/riding on public roads that are open to motor vehicles – the last 7.5 miles are on roads that are open to car traffic. On the open roads, racers are expected to follow all traffic laws and abide by “Rules of the Road.”
Helmets are mandatory. Motorized bikes of any nature are not allowed. No ear buds, earphones, or anything else that would limit hearing can be used during this or any leg of The Big Hurt.
Bicyclists may not receive assistance or spare parts from anyone after starting the race. Arrive with your bike in good repair – the bike racer is responsible for providing a safe bicycle. The racer should be able to repair flat tires without outside assistance.
There are hazards along the route including narrow shoulders, truck traffic, dogs, etc. Pay attention out there!
The racer should start with sufficient water and food for the entire course.
Bike Parts & Service:
Pre-race, bikes parts and service can be found in Port Angeles at Sound Bikes and Kayak or Bike Garage.
On race day, we will have a mechanic at Pebble Beach Park to help with minor or unexpected issues from 7am to 10am. You should arrive at the race with your bike in good repair, and having ridden it recently to ensure it can be safely used at the race.