✨ Support the Podcast ✨

In this episode, we break down everything you need to know about the 2026 Pinyons and Pines “race-not-race” in Northern Arizona.

We cover key logistics including grand depart info, parking, pre-race gathering, required permits and last-minute route updates (including potential mud reroutes). We also dive into sponsorship support, water reliability, resupply strategy, and how to prepare for Arizona’s unpredictable weather—from freezing temps to desert heat.

The second half is a detailed course preview of this year’s 413-mile, 39,000-foot route. We explain why this edition is one of the toughest yet, what makes it unique, major changes from past years, critical resupply points (especially the Cottonwood Maverik), water carries, and what to expect from key sections like Mingus, Crown King, the Bradshaws, and the Prescott Circle Trail.

If you’re registered, on the waitlist, or just curious about ultra bikepacking in Arizona, this episode will help you prepare mentally and strategically for what’s shaping up to be a big, demanding year on course.

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Event Website: https://danaernst.com/PinyonsPines/

Strava Group: https://www.strava.com/clubs/1382713

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pinyonspinesbikepackingrace/ 

Arizona State Trust Land Permit: https://azland.my.salesforce-sites.com/recreationalpermit/

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(00:00:00) - Podcast Support & Welcome

(00:02:37) - Event Disclaimer, Safety & Self-Supported Rules

(00:05:30) - Eighth Edition Overview & Course Stats

(00:07:14) - Benchmark Ride & Course Difficulty

(00:08:12) - Registration, Waitlist & Sponsors

(00:15:19) - GPS Files, Route Updates & Mud Bypass

(00:20:03) - Parking, Pre-Race Gathering & Permits

(00:24:38) - Why This Year’s Route (Crown King & Additions)

(00:25:43) - Full Course Overview & Bike Choice

(00:28:53) - Opening Section: Woody Mountain to Sedona

(00:30:45) - Cottonwood Resupply Strategy

(00:34:10) - Spring Valley to Crown King Climb

(00:38:21) - Senator Highway to Prescott Loop

(00:41:33) - Prescott Resupply & 24-Hour Options

(00:44:30) - Mount Union & Major Descents

(00:47:55) - Camp Verde Resupply & Final 100 Miles

(00:51:06) - Stoneman Lake Climb & Road Conditions

(00:53:47) - Mormon Lake Resupply & Final Summit

(00:55:49) - Final Stretch to Finish

(00:57:13) - Final Notes, Contact Info & Campfire Policy

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#endurance #bikepacking