Course Description:
The mountain bike course takes place on the Foothills Trail System on land owned by the Washington State Department of Natural Resources. The trail system is in the foothills high above Port Angeles, just north of the Olympic National Park boundary. The views are amazing, so make sure to plan a couple rest breaks to take it all in!
The course is approximately 15 miles total (varies by year) with the mountain bike loop is approximately 10 miles, followed by a 5-mile downhill cruise on pavement to get to the race hub and transition area in downtown.
Getting to the Start Line:
Racers will need to be dropped off by their team, friend, or family at the main Foothills Trailhead by 8:30 a.m. as there is a ½ mile ride or walk uphill to get to the start line where there will be a briefing at 8:45 a.m. before the 9 a.m. start. It takes approximately 20 minutes to get from downtown Port Angeles to the drop spot, so we recommend leaving right after the 7:30 a.m. mandatory meeting at race central downtown.
Directions from Pebble Beach Park: Go South on Lincoln Street to 8th Street and go Right. Follow to the 2nd light which is Pine Street and go Left. After the stop sign, it will turn into Black Diamond Road, which you will follow several miles until you come to Little River Road where you will take a Left. In 1.5 miles there will be a trailhead on your left clearly marked as “Foothills Trail System” From there you take the trail, then stay left at the fork to stay going west. At the end of the trail (logging road) turn right and to get to the Start Line.
Cyclist Competency and Safety:
The Foothills trail is a multi-use trail, including motorized recreation use, so watch for other traffic. The trails vary between smooth and flowy, to tight and rough with loose rocks. Off-road riding experience is strongly recommended. It is also strongly recommended that you use a mountain bike, ideally with a little suspension and definitely good brakes.
The bike racer must be capable of racing/riding on public roads that are open to motor vehicles – the last 7.5 miles are on roads that are open to car traffic. On the open roads, racers are expected to follow all traffic laws and abide by “Rules of the Road.”
Helmets are mandatory. Motorized bikes of any nature are not allowed. No ear buds, earphones, or anything else that would limit hearing can be used during this or any leg of The Big Hurt.
Bicyclists may not receive assistance or spare parts from anyone after starting the race. Arrive with your bike in good repair – the bike racer is responsible for providing a safe bicycle. The racer should be able to repair flat tires without outside assistance.
There are hazards along the route including narrow shoulders, truck traffic, dogs, etc. Pay attention out there!
The racer should start with sufficient water and food for the entire course.
