Higher Ground

Higher Ground Race Details

Join us for Higher Ground in honor of Jarrod Bunk’s belief that the bike community can help build a community in need. This event is brought to you by the locals of Johnstown, the Pennsylvania Environmental Council, and the Community Foundation for the Alleghenies.

This will be a scenic tour with opportunities to connect with the natural beauty of the Laurel Highlands and bond with like-minded souls before and after in downtown Johnstown.

Event Highlights

• Grassroots Spirit: Keep the grassroots spirit of Higher Ground with rugged routes throughout Johnstown.
• Scenic Experience: Expect punchy climbs and path-less-travelled trails.
• Environmental Wonders: Discover the beauty of the Laurel Highlands and the Allegheny Mountains.
• Date & Location: October 25, 2026, at 90 Johns St, Johnstown, PA.

Available Routes

Here are the routes that will be available:

• Thirty: An out-and-back on the Path of the Flood and Staple Bend Tunnel trails to the Johnstown Flood Memorial Park.
• Forty: Heads north towards Hinkston Run Reservoir, then east on quiet paved roads to the Johnstown Flood Memorial Park.
• Sixty: Returns on the Forty route, adding the Rager District climb & descent.
• Eighty: Includes the Forty route and climbs into the forested Gamelands before returning to Johnstown.
• Hundo: Combines the Forty route and the Rager District climb & descent.

Support & Amenities

There will be aid station support, and the start/finish venue will have food and drink available. All riders must check in & out to ensure everyone's safety on the course.

Learn More

To explore the history and purpose of Higher Ground, read this story on The Radavist from 2022.

Partners

Partners that are making Higher Ground happen include:

• Pennsylvania Environmental Council
• Community Foundation for the Alleghenies
• Fat Jimmy's Outfiters
• Thomas Automotive
• New Trail Brewing
• Endo TuneUp
• Stan's
• Nittany Mountain Works
• Footdown.cc
• Freeze Thaw Cycles
• Hushmoney Bikes

Proceeds

Proceeds from Higher Ground will support The Women's Help Center and the Pennsylvania Interscholastic Cycling League.

For More Information

Visit the race page at BikeReg.