Unravel The Scratchgravels XC

Prepare to kick off the summer riding season with the Unravel The Scratchgravels XC, an exhilarating cross-country mountain bike race set for May 16, 2026, in Helena, Montana. This iconic event, recognized as Montana's longest-running XC race, offers a challenging and rewarding experience across Helena's stunning singletrack trails. Participants can choose from various distances, including a 6-mile Junior Short loop, an 11-mile Novice course, a 17-mile Intermediate challenge with over 2,600 feet of climbing, and the demanding 22-mile Expert race, featuring more than 3,500 feet of elevation gain over four laps. The course is celebrated for its technical climbs, fast descents, rocky singletrack, and breathtaking views of Big Sky Country, making it a true Montana classic.

The race course, starting and finishing at the Echo Lane Trailhead, winds through the Scratchgravel Hills, an area known for drying out quickly in the spring, providing excellent early-season riding conditions. Racers in the Expert category will find a marked zone in the trailhead area for water and nutrition hand-ups to help fuel their efforts. Beyond the thrill of competition, the Unravel The Scratchgravels XC proudly supports local initiatives, including the Helena Cyclones NICA mountain biking team and Girls Thrive community programs.

As you navigate the punchy climbs and thrilling descents, be sure to note that helmets and flat handlebars are required for all participants. Typical race day conditions in mid-May for Helena include pleasant highs around 66F and lows near 42F, with a low chance of precipitation, promising an ideal day for tackling the Scratchgravels. This event is a fantastic opportunity for mountain bikers of all levels to test their skills and immerse themselves in Helena's world-class trail system.