Custer’s Last Stand

Custer’s Last Stand is an annual mountain bike race at Fort Custer in Augusta, Michigan. It begins at 10:00 AM with 9- or 18-mile course options. The main loop incorporates Fort Custer’s red, green, and yellow trails. The 9-mile option is approximately 90% singletrack, meaning riders navigate narrow trails for most of the race instead of open roads. Riders begin in 30-second intervals, which helps spread out participants and allows for racing without congestion in the initial mile. A free kids race is also offered, with .35- and .70-mile routes. The course begins immediately with a sharp 180-degree left turn onto grass near the parking lot, then proceeds around Prairie View pavilion before crossing Fort Custer Drive with assistance from marshals. It is rated intermediate, featuring above-ground roots, some rocks, notable climbs, two creek crossings, and numerous switchbacks. One specific feature, “The Stairs,” must be climbed by riders as the easier bypass is blocked on race day. Another feature, “Erin’s climb,” is used as a descent. The race suits riders preparing for Iceman as well as those new to mountain bike racing; a youth discount indicates the participation of younger racers.