Conquer the Continental Divide at the Butte 100 MTB Race

Whether you are pinning a number on for the first time or you are a seasoned endurance veteran, the Butte 100 demands respect. From the deep, loamy forests to the exposed, rocky ridges, you will experience the diverse terrain that makes Butte a hidden gem of the mountain biking world. Prepare your legs for massive climbs, reward yourself with heart-pounding descents, and immerse yourself in the legendary trail culture of the Mining City.

What to Expect

Epic Backcountry Terrain - Experience world-class singletrack that winds through the pristine wilderness of the Continental Divide National Scenic Trail.
Technical Mastery - Navigate a variety of trail features, including rocky rock gardens, rooty sections, and tight switchbacks that keep you on your toes.
High-Altitude Challenge - Test your lungs and legs with significant elevation gain in a thin-air environment that rewards smart pacing.
Pure Montana Vibe - Join a community of passionate riders who value rugged adventure, sportsmanship, and the post-ride celebration.
Wilderness Connection - Immerse yourself in the solitude and beauty of the Montana backcountry, where the trail is your only focus.

Course Description

The Butte 100 courses are designed to challenge every facet of your mountain biking ability. Riders will encounter a mix of fast, flowy singletrack and demanding technical sections that require focus and bike-handling skills. Expect substantial elevation profiles that will test your climbing endurance throughout the day.

Course	Description	Elevation Profile
The 100 Mile	The premier ultra-endurance test. A relentless journey across the Continental Divide featuring the most iconic and demanding trail segments in the region.	High-intensity climbing with significant cumulative elevation gain reaching high-alpine peaks.
The 50 Mile	A perfect introduction to the Butte backcountry. This course captures the essence of the race with challenging terrain and rewarding views without the ultra-distance commitment.	Challenging ascent-heavy profile that rewards riders with long, sustained descents through diverse forest and meadow landscapes.

Event Highlights

The Butte 100 is more than just time in the saddle. It is a full-scale mountain bike festival that celebrates the spirit of the sport. We pride ourselves on creating an environment that supports riders from start to finish, ensuring that the focus remains on the joy of the ride.

Support and Amenities - Fully stocked aid stations strategically placed along the course to keep your energy levels high and your bike mechanicals addressed.
Post-Event Celebration - Join us at the finish line for an atmosphere buzzing with excitement, featuring local food, refreshing drinks, and stories from the trail.
Community Spirit - Connect with riders, volunteers, and local supporters who make this event a staple of the Montana cycling calendar.
Awards and Recognition - We celebrate the achievements of all participants, with podium recognition for top finishers across various categories.
Spectator Friendly - Bring your friends and family to experience the energy of the event, with designated areas to cheer on racers as they push toward their goals.

Butte 100 MTB Race on the Road

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the technical difficulty of the Butte 100 course?

This is a true backcountry mountain bike challenge featuring a mix of rugged singletrack, high-alpine exposure, and sustained climbing. Riders should expect technical rock gardens, loose shale, and demanding descents that require advanced handling skills.

How intense is the elevation profile for this race?

The course is renowned for its massive vertical gain, testing your endurance against the thin air of the Montana mountains. Expect a relentless day in the saddle with significant climbing that will push both your lungs and your legs to the limit.

What kind of mountain bike setup is recommended for these trails?

A well-maintained full-suspension mountain bike is highly recommended to handle the technical features and high-speed chatter of the terrain. Ensure your bike is equipped with durable, tubeless tires with aggressive tread to navigate the sharp, rocky sections found throughout the course.

What should I know about the trail conditions on race day?

Mountain conditions can shift rapidly, and riders should be prepared for everything from dusty, sun-baked singletrack to potential mud in shaded sections. Check the event website for the latest trail reports and weather updates leading up to the race.

Are there specific gear requirements for racers?

Safety and self-sufficiency are paramount in the backcountry. All riders must carry mandatory gear, which typically includes:

A hydration pack with sufficient water capacity
A basic mechanical repair kit - including a spare tube and multi-tool
Appropriate nutrition to sustain a high-output effort

Where can spectators watch the race?

Spectators are encouraged to head to designated viewing areas near the aid stations and the finish line to cheer on the riders. Please refer to the event website for spectator maps and guidelines to ensure you stay clear of the active race course.

Montana Cycling Events

Events in Montana

Butte 100 MTB Race

Lewis and Clark Gravel Classic