Canaan Valley Fat

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

Season Schedule:

Where

Weekend 3 (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 TBD. 

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
3pm – Awards @ Pro Shop

Fat Bike Rentals available from Trail Labs

2023 Event POV from Jeremiah Bishop: 

Event Sponsors:

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. Check out the Locations that we are grooming for the 2024/2025 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 calling this one a 50k. No, it won’t be exactly 50k, but it will be in the ballpark. It will be a lap race with approximately 3-4 laps and feature promised land trail predominantly. Also, the exact course and the length of time you can expect to be out racing or riding will be based on conditions and weather on race week and race day.  

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.