race logistics

terrain

The Maah Daah Hey trail offers as many descents as it does climbs, and they are never not far apart. The earth is a unique blend of dirt, clay, sandstone, scoria, and whatever else the good Lord mixed into this epic mountain bikers’ playground. On the tops of the badlands buttes you will find flat prairie grasslands. There are also some sparsely wooded sections scattered on the trail but overall there is minimal cover from the elements. Hence the name BADLANDS.

River crossing

You will cross the Little “Muddy” Missouri River about a mile before Aid Station #2. The river bottom is mostly rocky and solid but the water level varies greatly, in August it is usually ankle to knee deep, which is why we do the race when we do. The color of the river water resembles the color of chocolate milk, but don’t drink it! Some racers take there shoes off to cross and others put a new pair of shoes and socks in their Aid 2 Drop Bag.

aid stations

Approximately every 25 miles will be an Oasis with peppy volunteers ready to help you with food, liquids and anything else you might need. You will have an option to send self-packed drop bags that we will deliver to each of the Aid Stations before the race. Shaded tents, chairs, porta potties and ice cold water are just some of the things you will see. Some of the Aid Stations even have volunteer bike mechanics that may be able to help you with and your bike make it to the finish.

LODGING

There are about 40 beautiful campsites at CCC, they are $7 per night, primitive, and are first come first serve (no reservations). There are other primitive campgrounds near by; Summit is 5 minutes away, Bennett is 20-30 minutes away, or Juniper in the TRNP is 20-30 minutes away. If you’re into showering and sleeping in a bed check out the Roosevelt Inn & Suites in Watford City, ND, one of the official sponsors of the MDH100. www.rooseveltinn.com

checkpoints

In addition to the Aid Stations there are 9 checkpoints where the Maah Daah Hey Trail intersects the “major” back roads. These are really your only “bailout” options on the whole trail, volunteers will be standing by at these Checkpoints to assist you. The Checkpoints can be found more frequently on the bottom half of the course, which is a big reason we race the trail from north to south. Checkpoints will be well stocked with water, and in some cases MAYBE even ice.

finish line

Welcome to the very small group of mountain bikers in the “Maah Daah Hey in a Day Club.” At the finish line, in Medora, there will be plenty of food, drinks, and stories to share. Award Ceremonies will be held at the finish line at about 11:00, 2:00, 5:00, and 8:00 MDT. Electronic timing chips will immediately let you know if you beat the course record, made the top ten, or barely made the cut-off time. But either way you rode the “MDHx1day” and that is something to be very very proud of!