Red Bird Crest 80k MTB

Event Overview

The Red Bird Crest 80K and 40k will feature an epic course with lots of rocky features, single track, climbs, and amazing descents. This course will challenge your physical fitness and your bike handling.

Course Description 80k

• Start Point: The 80k course will storm out of the Peabody Trail Head into section 1-5 of the crest trail.
• First Climb: The first major climb comes quick as you climb out of the river bottoms to the long ridges this region of Ky is known for.
• First SAG: Around mi 10 you will arrive at the first SAG location. General bike tools, water and race snacks, will be available.
• Technical Descent: After a fast rolling section, the end of this will greet you with a technical descent. Take care of your equipment here.

Mid Course Highlights

• Next Section: The 80k course will continue straight across the gravel road to climb up to another ridge.
• SAG Station: After about 7 mi, you will arrive at the next SAG station ~mi 25. This is the most remote part of the race.
• Route Change: Expect some beautiful rock outcroppings and a few creek crossings as you exit the crest trail onto Elijah Creek Rd.
• Traffic Awareness: Follow the signs as you cross onto HWY 66 and onto HWY 2000. These are super low traffic roads but keep a wary eye for traffic.

Final Stretch

• Last Climb: The best singletrack in all of Southeastern KY awaits after a quick double track climb up to the ridge.
• Ending Descent: With about 4 miles to go you will begin an epic descent. Lots of technical rocky turns and drops are on the menu.
• Finish Line: As you exit the single track, pedal across HWY 66 back to the Peabody Trailhead and cross the finish line.

Course Description 40K

• Start Point: The 40k course will storm out of the Peabody Trail Head into section 1-5 of the crest trail.
• First Climb: The first major climb comes quick as you climb out of the river bottoms to the long ridges this region of Ky is known for.
• First SAG: Around mi 10 you will arrive at the first SAG location. General bike tools, water and race snacks, will be available.
• Course Split: After this descent the 80k and 40k course will split. The 40K course will turn right onto Gilberts Creek.

Closing Velocity

• Wildlife: Keep an eye out for elk they often frequent these creek banks.
• Final Climb: A nice hard pack gravel road climb back up to the ridge will have you searching for traction.
• Rejoining the Trail: You will rejoin the Crest Trail with about 5 mi to go. ITS GO TIME!
• Race Finish: With a mostly downhill grade, pedal hard and race back to the line.

Event Details

• Date: 2026-09-19
• Location: 1022 Frank Bowling Rd, Big Creek, KY
• Registration: Sign up here.