From backcountry endurance tests to gravity-fueled descents, the 2025 mountain bike race calendar is packed with adrenaline-pumping action. Whether you’re racing for the podium, dreaming about your first start line, or cheering on your heroes, these events represent the best of the best in U.S. mountain biking.
At MTB Girls Magazine, we’re spotlighting the most iconic, exciting, and community-driven races of the year—all of which are worth keeping on your radar.
1. Sea Otter Classic
Date: April 10–13, 2025
Location: Monterey, CA
This cycling mega-festival kicks off the season with a celebration of all things bike. From elite cross-country and downhill races to beginner-friendly clinics and a massive industry expo, Sea Otter is where the MTB world gathers. It’s as much a social event as it is a competition—and a perfect place to get inspired.
2. Leadville Trail 100 MTB
Date: August 9, 2025
Location: Leadville, CO
This high-altitude sufferfest is a badge of honor for endurance riders. With 100 miles and over 12,000 feet of elevation gain, Leadville is more than a race—it’s a test of mental and physical grit. Pro tip: train for the altitude, not just the distance.
3. USA Cycling Gravity MTB Nationals
Date: June 2025 (TBA)
Location: Snow Summit, Big Bear Lake, CA
This is the big show for gravity athletes. Riders battle it out for national titles in downhill and dual slalom disciplines. Expect high-speed action, technical drops, and the fiercest competition in the U.S. scene.
4. USA Cycling Cross-Country MTB Nationals
Date: July 2025 (TBA)
Location: TBA
This is where the country’s top XC talent earns the stars-and-stripes jersey. Categories range from junior to elite, and it’s a high-stakes, high-prestige race with Olympic hopefuls in the mix.
5. Downieville Classic
Date: August 7–10, 2025
Location: Downieville, CA
Part enduro, part backcountry adventure, the Downieville Classic is famous for its rowdy terrain and community-driven vibe. With equal parts cross-country and downhill action, this race rewards riders who can do it all.
6. Fox US OPEN of Mountain Biking
Date: September 2025 (TBA)
Location: Killington Resort, VT
Known for big prize purses and pro-level competition, this open-class event is downhill racing at its best. With youth and amateur divisions, it’s also a great place for up-and-coming riders to test themselves against the best.
7. Cohutta 100
Date: Late April 2025 (TBA)
Location: Ocoee, TN
This Appalachian endurance race is part of the National Ultra Endurance Series. Expect long miles, deep woods, and remote singletrack. For gravel-loving XC riders, this one’s a dream (and a challenge).
8. Snowshoe GNCC MTB
Date: June 20–22, 2025
Location: Snowshoe, WV
While known for its motorsports events, Snowshoe also hosts a grueling off-road MTB challenge through steep, muddy, and mountainous terrain. If you like technical XC with some serious East Coast spice, this is your race.
9. Dirty Burro 50K (Tour de Big Bear)
Date: August 2025 (TBA)
Location: Big Bear Lake, CA
A brand-new addition to the Tour de Big Bear festival, the Dirty Burro is a 50K XC race designed for mid-distance mountain crushers. The forest views and high-elevation trail network make this an instant classic in the making.
10. Whitney Classic MTB Segment
Date: Fall 2025 (TBA)
Location: Death Valley to Whitney Portal, CA
While traditionally a multi-discipline ultra ride, this year’s Whitney Classic will include a dedicated MTB segment. Riders climb from the lowest point in North America to the base of the highest peak in the lower 48—a 136-mile epic that’s part ride, part pilgrimage.
Make It Your Season
Whether you’re gunning for a podium, setting a personal goal, or just showing up to soak in the vibes, these races offer something for everyone—from pros to passionate weekend warriors. And for women and non-binary riders: these events are increasingly building more inclusive categories, better representation, and stronger community support.
At MTB Girls Magazine, we’ll be following these races closely—and maybe even racing a few ourselves. Got a race story, goal, or event we should highlight? Drop us a line. The trail is wide open in 2025.
