The Lake Tahoe Mountain Bike Race is an annual event that draws cyclists from around the world to the stunning natural beauty of Lake Tahoe, California. This race offers a unique opportunity for riders to test their skills and endurance on challenging courses that wind through the region’s breathtaking landscapes.
Dates and Registration
The 2024 Lake Tahoe Mountain Bike Race is scheduled for Saturday, June 22, 2024. In addition, the Tahoe Trail 100K and 50K events will take place on Saturday, July 20, 2024.
Registration and Pricing
For the Lake Tahoe Mountain Bike Race, online registration is closed, but onsite registration options are available. Pricing varies by event and age group, with options for solo and team riders.
The Tahoe Trail 100K and 50K events have general registration open, with a first-come, first-served policy until sold out. The pricing for these events is $140 for the 100K and $105 for the 50K.
Course and Categories
Lake Tahoe Mountain Bike Race
The Lake Tahoe Mountain Bike Race features cross-country races and a 4-hour endurance ride. The courses include wide trails and fast singletrack, providing a thrilling challenge for riders. The age groups for this event are Juniors 16 & under, Junior 17-18, 19-29, 30-39, 40-49, 50-59, and 60+.
Tahoe Trail 100K and 50K
The Tahoe Trail 100K is a 2-loop course with over 6,000 feet of elevation gain, starting and finishing at Northstar California Village. The 50K event is a single-loop course with approximately 4,557 feet of elevation gain. These events offer categories for age groups, single speed, and para categories for both men and women.
Logistics and Support
Lake Tahoe Mountain Bike Race
The main venue for the Lake Tahoe Mountain Bike Race is the Highlands Community Center (Tahoe XC), located at 925 Country Club Dr, Tahoe City, CA 96145. The event includes an event T-shirt, finishing medal, post-event meal, chip timing, awards, and EMT support.
Tahoe Trail 100K and 50K
For the Tahoe Trail events, neutral bike support is available at the Village Aid Station. Drop bags are allowed for 100K participants, to be collected at packet pickups and transported to the mid-point of the course. Trash and recycling bins are available at aid stations and the start/finish line.
Qualifying and Permits
The Tahoe Trail 100K is a qualifying event for the Leadville 100 Mile Endurance Race. The Lake Tahoe Mountain Bike Race and Tahoe Trail events take place on the Lake Tahoe Basin Management Unit and the Tahoe National Forest under a Special Use Permit from the US Forest Service.
Tips and Nutrition
Nutrition and Hydration
Participants in the Lake Tahoe Mountain Bike Race and Tahoe Trail events should consider a balanced diet with complex carbohydrates, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Staying hydrated by drinking plenty of water and electrolyte-rich fluids is crucial for maintaining energy levels and performance.
Tips for the Tahoe Trail 50K
For those tackling the Tahoe Trail 50K, it’s essential to train on similar terrain to prepare for the course’s elevation gain and technical sections. Building endurance and stamina through regular long rides is also recommended. Paying close attention to nutrition and hydration during the race can help riders maintain their energy levels and finish strong.
The Lake Tahoe Mountain Bike Race and Tahoe Trail events offer a unique and challenging experience for outdoor enthusiasts and cycling enthusiasts alike. With stunning natural scenery, demanding courses, and a supportive community, these events are sure to leave a lasting impression on all who participate.
References
- https://bigblueadventurellc.enmotive.com/events/register/2024-lake-tahoe-mountain-bike-race
- https://bigblueadventure.com/event/lake-tahoe-mountain-bike-race/
- https://www.leadvilleraceseries.com/tahoetrail/
- https://bigblueadventure.com/sports/mountain-biking/
- https://adventuresportsweektahoe.com/compete/lake-tahoe-mountain-bike-race/