BearJaw Groove 2026

BearJaw Groove is a 6-hour mountain bike relay in Flagstaff, Arizona, held at Fort Valley Trailhead, beginning at 9:00 a.m. Participants can compete in the main relay solo, as a duo, or in a four-person team, with cash prizes for the solo podium finishers. The event also features a free kids race, an adaptive e-bike category, an 11-mile race, and longer 22-, 33-, and 44-mile options, catering to various types of mountain bikers. The primary loop measures 10.5 miles. It begins with approximately one mile of fire road, allowing the mass start to spread out before transitioning to single-track. The route then follows the Arizona Trail, offering tight and smooth riding, before connecting to Rocky Moto for a consistent climb with some roots and rocks. This leads to a 3.5-mile descent that is largely fast and smooth, featuring one or two rock gardens before the course concludes back at the start/finish area on single-track. The course is designed to be fast and enjoyable while remaining accessible to recreational riders.