DINO MTB Series - Muscatatuck Park

Prepare for a weekend of off-road excitement at the DINO MTB Series - Muscatatuck Park, kicking off on July 11, 2026, in scenic North Vernon, Indiana. This renowned event, part of the DINO Series—Indiana's premier off-road organization since 1990—promises thrilling mountain biking across distances of 28M, 21M, 14M, 7M, and a 1M Kids Race. Known as one of DINO's favorite venues and a "hidden gem" for outdoor enthusiasts, Muscatatuck Park offers a challenging yet picturesque experience. Typical race day conditions in mid-July feature comfortable highs around 86°F and lows around 65°F, with a 17% chance of precipitation, providing an authentic Midwest summer racing atmosphere.

The roughly 10 miles of multi-use trails at Muscatatuck Park are renowned for their technical nature, winding along numerous small ravines and offering stunning overlooks of the Muscatatuck River, two marshes, and abundant wildlife. While most significant inclines have been mitigated, the course presents a true test of skill with a difficulty rating of 5 for hills and 4 for surface on a 1-5 scale. Expect rewarding, flowy descents and an elevation change of approximately +321/-341 feet over an 8-mile intermediate section. The DINO MTB Series is open to all skill levels, featuring categories from Intro for first-time racers (which can be free) to Elite for top regional competitors, ensuring a competitive yet welcoming environment for everyone. Events typically start near Shelter 2, with restrooms conveniently located within walking distance of camping options.

Beyond the main cross-country mountain bike races on Sunday, July 12th, the weekend is a full-fledged outdoor festival, starting Saturday, July 11th, with trail runs (5K and 15K), downhill mountain biking, short track MTB races, and even kayak shuttle trips. Aid stations are a standard part of DINO events, providing water, sports drinks, and snacks to keep participants fueled. For those looking to extend their adventure, festival-style camping is available around Shelter 4, making for an immersive and unforgettable racing getaway in the heart of Indiana.