RACE START TIME: 10am
RACE ADDRESS: (Canaan Valley Resort State Park) – Golf Pro Shop – 230 Main Park Road, Davis, WV 26260
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New for the 2026 season: Updates to the 2024/5 season include dropping one race to make this a 4 race series (2 in Tucker County and 2 in Garrett County), more presence from Blackwater Bicycle Association for the Whitegrass race, and updates to series scoring. Things that will stay the same is the shorter XC racing format and the core four venues. Series registration saves you some $$ and there are even some series fat bike rental options. For more detailed information visit www.highlandsfatbikeseries.com
Season Schedule:
January 11, 2026: Mchenry, MD
January 25, 2026: Canaan Valley, WV
February 22, 2026: Oakland, MD
March 8, 2026: White Grass, WV
Where
Weekend 2 (Canaan Valley Resort State Park) – Golf Pro Shop – 230 Main Park Road, Davis, WV 26260
Race Schedule
Saturday
(ALL DAY) Self Guided Pre-Ride Available
5-8pm – Early packet pickup at Trail Labs.
Sunday
8am – Check in at Canaan Valley State Park Golf Pro Shop
9:30 am- Ride to Race Start
9:45am – Racer Meeting @ Balsam Fir Swamp Overlook Trailhead
10:00 AM – Race Start @ Balsam Fir Swamp Overlook Trailhead
1pm – Course cut off
Awards @ Finish Line
Fat Bike Rentals available from Trail Labs
2023 Event POV from Jeremiah Bishop:
Snow/Weather
You ought to know by now that mother nature beats the the sound of her own drum. We have no control over snow. We do know that we will run these things come hell or high water (despite what happened the other year) and will have fun doing it. If you are a condition dependent type of rider……well, you might consider just riding the trainer instead. We’ve raced in blizzards, sub zero temps, warm temps, and soft snow. Thats just how it goes. We make no claims or garuntees on snow conditions, and or trail conditions that are a direct result of snow temps.
Why
The first time I borrowed a fat bike and rode it down double trouble (a local trail), I was sold on just what fat bikes are for and that they are here to stay. I bought one the next day. We put on these races as a central way to pump up fat bike stoke around these parts.
Proceeds
We are not a non-profit, but race proceeds will go towards keeping up with grooming some of our local trails. We will be focusing on Canaan Valley State Park for the 2025/2026 season.
Common Questions:
What kind of bike do I need to participate?? You must ride a fat bike at this event – 3.8″ or bigger tires. ·
What if I don’t own a fat bike? Trail Labs will be offering their rental fleets to reserve all winter: visit, email, or call for rental options.
Is it timed? The races are indeed timed and results will be posted. Awards (no prizes, no cash) will be classy and cheap.
What is the race length? We are putting together 3 laps of approximately 3-5 miles each. The exact course won’t be decided until last minute, to try and get the most of conditions, but will feature promised land trail predominantly. The length of time you can expect to be out racing or riding will be somewhere in the 1.5-2 hours for most riders.
What if I am not the “racer” type? Not a problem – feel free to enter anyway. Think of it as a chance to ride kick ass groomed trails with new friends! ·One lap, two, or three….no big deal.
What about the weather? This years races can happen in all weather option. Chances are good for snow on these dates, but if there is no snow we may adjust courses as necessary. We are hardy West Virginians and will ride no matter the condition…unless it’s just stupid out. Stay tuned to your email and social media as the event approaches.
So how do I stay warm? Dress appropriately in layers, ready for temps that can be below zero. Watch the weather. If your feet get too cold, walk. Walk to the side of the groomed trails. If you walk on the groomed trails it screws up the surface, so be respectful and walk off the edge! . Be prepared, I don’t suffer fools. ·Need more info? Come to our clinic weekend, its free so there’s no excuses.
What if I register but can’t ride?? We will miss you but, sorry, Registration fees are non-refundable. Registration can be transferred through your bikereg profile. If we cancel the event, your entry will be refunded.
Highlands Fat Bike Series 