Whiskey Off Road (2026)
April 24 – April 26
Whiskey Off Road is Arizona’s biggest spring MTB event. Three days of racing in Prescott’s high country, two hours north of Phoenix.
The Races
50-Mile | 30-Mile | 15-Mile (Saturday, April 26)
Start downtown on Whiskey Row. Climb into Prescott National Forest. Rocky singletrack, doubletrack, gravel roads through ponderosa pine at 5,400-7,000 feet. Finish on the courthouse lawn with a commemorative pint glass.
Gravel Growler (Friday, April 25)
High country gravel warmup or standalone event if you skip the singletrack suffering.
The Reality
Prescott sits at 5,400 feet. The course climbs to 7,000+. If you’re coming from sea level, elevation will hurt more than the rocks. And there are lots of rocks.
Spring weather swings 40°F mornings to 75°F+ afternoons. Sometimes wind. Sometimes rain. Pack layers.
94% finish rate sounds forgiving. It’s not easy—just well-supported with good course marking and stocked aid stations.
Why Go
Well-run event. Beautiful ponderosa pine singletrack. Good MTB industry scene. Prescott’s worth visiting—historic downtown, walkable, good food, Whiskey Row lives up to the name.
If you liked 24 Hours in the Old Pueblo vibe but want actual racing, this is that.
Logistics
When: Arrive Thursday for packet pickup. Race Saturday (or Friday gravel).
Bike: 120-130mm trail bike. Tubeless mandatory. Low gearing helps (sustained climbing at altitude).
Bring: Tire plugs, 3-4L water, layers, sunscreen.
Stay: Downtown Prescott (walking distance) or surrounding area (drive in).
Registration
Over 80% full. The 50-mile sells out. Register soon.
Register for Whiskey Off-Road (Organizer, Epic Rides) →
Related: Best of Tucson Mountain Biking