About Custer’s Last Stand

What to Expect

Trail Conditions - Experience a diverse mix of hard-packed dirt, rooty sections, and fast, flowing corners that will keep you on your toes.
Technical Features - Navigate through exciting natural obstacles, including rock gardens, tight switchbacks, and punchy climbs designed to test your handling skills.
Elevation Profile - Expect a dynamic ride with enough elevation gain to make you work for it, rewarding you with sweeping views and fast, rewarding descents.
Skill Levels - Courses are designed to be accessible for intermediate riders while offering enough technical complexity to keep expert mountain bikers fully engaged.
Nature Connection - Ride through the heart of Michigan's beautiful backcountry, surrounded by dense forests and the tranquil, raw beauty of local trail systems.

Course Description

The terrain around Augusta offers a classic Michigan riding experience. The courses are crafted to utilize the best features of the local geography, ensuring a balanced mix of aerobic challenge and technical prowess. Riders will navigate through established trail networks that demand focus, bike handling confidence, and a good sense of rhythm.

Course	Description	Elevation Gain
The Short Loop	Perfect for intermediate riders or those looking for a faster, high-intensity sprint. Includes key technical trail segments without the extreme distance.	Moderate
The Endurance Challenge	A true test of stamina that links the most challenging trail sections. Expect significant climbing and sustained technical efforts.	High

Event Highlights

Post-Event Vibe - Celebrate your finish line victory with a vibrant post-ride festival atmosphere, complete with local food, music, and a chance to swap trail stories with fellow riders.
Support & Amenities - We have you covered on the trail with strategically placed support stations providing hydration and nutrition to keep you fueled until the final mile.
Awards & Prizes - Competitive categories will be recognized, with prizes awarded to top finishers who master the terrain in record time.
Community Spirit - Whether you are racing or riding for the personal challenge, the supportive community of local mountain bikers makes this event a highlight of the season.

Watch: Custer's Last Stand Highlights

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the technical difficulty of the trails at Custer’s Last Stand?

The course is built to challenge your handling skills with a mix of natural rock gardens, tight switchbacks, and punchy, demanding climbs. While it is designed to be accessible for intermediate riders, the technical features ensure even expert shredders will stay fully engaged on the singletrack.

What kind of trail conditions should I prepare for in Augusta?

Expect a diverse and rugged terrain that keeps you on your toes throughout the ride. You will encounter a mix of hard-packed dirt, challenging rooty sections, and fast, flowing corners that demand focus and bike control.

How much climbing is involved in the elevation profile?

The route features a dynamic elevation profile that will certainly make you work for it. You can look forward to rewarding, fast descents and sweeping views as a payoff for every climb you conquer.

Is this event suitable for beginner mountain bikers?

Custer’s Last Stand is primarily geared toward intermediate to expert riders looking to test their mettle on technical singletrack. If you are a beginner, ensure you have significant experience navigating natural trail obstacles before signing up.

Where can I find the latest information on race-day logistics and parking?

We recommend checking the official event website for the most up-to-date details regarding parking, spectator zones, and final course maps. Keep an eye on the event site as we get closer to the race date for any specific logistical updates.