The 2026 Pinyons and Pines race in Arizona is a testament to the extreme challenges and breathtaking beauty that bikepacking can offer. This year's edition, with its 413-mile route and 40,000 feet of elevation gain, is a true test of endurance and skill. What makes this race particularly fascinating is the contrast between the scorching heat and the stunning natural landscapes it traverses. Personally, I think the combination of extreme temperatures and sustained climbing makes this year's course particularly demanding, and it's no wonder that the scratch list is growing.
The route begins in Flagstaff, taking riders through a variety of environments, from cool forests to sweltering deserts. One of the most challenging sections is the Casner Mountain jeep road, which features extended grades of -15% and a surface composed of small boulders. This section is a true test of your brakes and bike handling skills, and it's a relief to drop off the mountain and into Cottonwood, where riders can resupply and take in the increase in temperature and the lack of shade.
The Mingus Mountain ascent is another challenging section, with 15 miles of singletrack that is very exposed, steep, and overgrown. The route then takes riders back into the trees, where the temperatures are a few degrees cooler, but there is still significant climbing left. The Crown King Ascent is another highlight, with riders ascending into the Bradshaw Mountains and onward to Prescott, Arizona. The route is exposed and hot, with minimal shade, and it's a relief to reach Crown King, where riders can resupply and take in the views.
The Mt. Union Mandatory Summit is another challenging section, with only 8.5 miles and 1,000 feet of climbing, but it's also 250 miles in. The top provides amazing views, and the next 35 miles trend mostly downhill. The final ascent to Flagstaff is the longest and least steep, but it's still a challenging 52 miles of uphill riding in the high desert. Despite the list of difficulties, this year's route showcases some of the best riding Arizona has to offer and offers a brilliant tour of the state's vast ecological diversity.
In my opinion, the Pinyons and Pines race is a testament to the beauty and challenge of bikepacking. It's a race that demands respect and preparation, and it's a privilege to be able to experience such a unique and demanding course. What many people don't realize is that the race is not just about the physical challenge, but also about the mental fortitude required to push through the tough sections and enjoy the stunning landscapes along the way. If you take a step back and think about it, the race is a microcosm of life, with its ups and downs, challenges and rewards. This raises a deeper question: what is the true measure of success in a race like this? Is it the time set, the place achieved, or the experience gained? One thing that immediately stands out is that the race is a celebration of the human spirit and the ability to overcome adversity. From my perspective, the Pinyons and Pines race is a true test of character and a reminder of the beauty that can be found in the most challenging of environments.
