The thrill of downhill racing, the endurance of cross-country marathons and the excitement of the UCI Mountain Bike World Cup Series are all coming together at Snowshoe Mountain Resort from September 27 to October 1. Set against the spectacular backdrop of Pocahontas County, West Virginia, this event promises to be a high-octane extravaganza like no other. Here’s everything you need to know about the upcoming penultimate round of the UCI World Series.
A New Name & Exciting Changes
In 2023, the UCI Mountain Bike World Cup Series underwent a transformation, including a name change. The entire event is now referred to as the World Series, but the individual races will still be known as World Cups. This evolution sets the stage for an exhilarating experience.
The series kicks off on Wednesday, September 27, with an invigorating new addition to Snowshoe – the Cross Country Marathon World Cup (XCM). Covering a grueling 62-mile course through the Allegheny Mountains from Snowshoe to Durbin and back, this race will test riders’ endurance and skills along Snowshoe Mountain’s backcountry trails, which connect to the Mower Basin in the Monongahela National Forest. The Mower Tract, a nearly 20-mile mountain biking trail system spanning Pocahontas and Randolph Counties, adds to the challenge.
For the first time, the XCM race is open to amateur riders without the need for a pro license. Test your mettle on the same course as the professionals, starting just minutes behind the elite riders in the Marathon of Snowshoe.
Downhill Racing Gets A Rousing New Format
This year, the Downhill (DHI) race format has been revamped to deliver more excitement for both racers and spectators. The schedule looks like this:
- Wednesday: Track walk and Junior Practice
- Thursday: All Practice and Junior Qualifying
- Friday: All practice, Junior Finals and Elite Qualifying
- Saturday: Elite Practice, Elite Semi-Finals and Elite finals
Cross Country Action Takes Center Stage
Cross Country Short Track (XCC) races will take place over two nights. On Thursday, the Under 23 category XCC will keep spectators on the edge of their seats, followed by the Elite category XCC on Friday night. The Cross Country Olympic (XCO) race will conclude the action on Sunday, with a new start and finish location on Skidder slope.
Entertainment Beyond the Trails
While the heart-pounding races are the main attraction, there’s more to the event than just biking. Head to the Village to enjoy live music every night, bike activities, a movie premiere and more.
Be Prepared For Your Adventure
Snowshoe’s rugged and natural terrain is a haven for mountain bikers, but it’s important to be prepared. Expect rocky, rooty, slippery and steep trails. Be sure to wear sturdy hiking boots and consider bringing trekking poles for added stability. Weather can change rapidly, so pack a rain jacket or poncho just in case.
Make sure to bring enough water and snacks to last you through the day, as you won’t want to miss any race action to grab a bite. And if you’re on the downhill course, remember that food and beverage vendors might be a hike away.
Explore Pocahontas County
Don’t leave your bike at home! Pocahontas County isn’t just a backdrop for the UCI Mountain Bike World Cup Series; it’s a biking paradise.
Home to the first International Mountain Biking Association Ride Center™ in West Virginia and the second Silver Level Ride Center on the East Coast – the Snowshoe Highlands Ride Center offers over 375 miles of mountain biking trails. Additionally, the full Snowshoe Bike Park will be open on Monday, October 2, allowing you to experience World Cup tracks and features like Lower Hareball and the Rooty Pebbles rock garden.
In addition to exceptional trails, Pocahontas County offers amenities for mountain bikers, including bike rentals, self-repair stations, shuttles, restaurants, lodging and breweries.
So, save the date for a week of thrilling mountain biking action, breathtaking scenery and unforgettable memories at the UCI Mountain Bike World Cup Series at Snowshoe Mountain. Whether you’re a hardcore biking enthusiast or a casual spectator, this event promises an adventure like no other. See you at Snowshoe!