The Classic

5/9/2026

Welcome to the Dark Side of the Mountain.

Ecstasy and agony are a great way to describe the new Lemurian Classic cross country mountain bike race. Not only will you be riding some of the most demanding terrain in Northern California, but you will also be riding some of the most down right hootin and hollerin fun trails you’ve ever laid two wheels on. From the soul crushing 30 mile long course to the much more inclusive all new beginner course , there is something for every fat tire enthusiast.

Registrants will receive a

  • T-shirt

  • Socks!

  • Lemurian Classic sticker

  • Lunch

  • Ice cold beer, or non-alcoholic beverages

  • The chance to race one of the best cross country races on the west coast with 350 other masochists.

Racers are required by Whiskeytown National Recreation to have a valid pass when entering the park. $15 pedestrian 7 day pedestrian passes can be purchased for $15 at the park visitor center or online at yourpassnow.com.

Founded in 1987…

the Lemurian is a true classic. From its original course at the Chappie OHV area near Shasta Dam, to its current home at Swasey Recreation area, one thing has remained the same, the Lemurian Classsic is a real mountain bike race. The climbs are steep, the trails rugged and the competition is stiff. The Lemurian Classic not only provides you with a chance to test your limits against fellow athletes, but it has become one of the largest fundraising events for the Redding area trails. All of the proceeds go to Redding Trail Alliance to help further their mission.

Dynamic Logos

Utilizing the talents of local designer Victor Sokolow of Studio 220, we will be releasing a dynamic logo every year combining elements of the original Lemurian Classic “Dark Side of the Mountain” logo with local wildlife (both real and mystical). This logo will only be available on that years race swag. So if you love it, make sure you get your entry before it sells out!

More Trails!

All of the proceeds from the Lemurian Classic go directly to our local non-profit trail stewardship organization Redding Trail Alliance. With over 26 miles of new trails constructed and many more planned along with ongoing efforts to reopen and maintain existing trails our small organization greatly benefits from this annual event, its participants and generous sponsors!

A course for everyone

All new for 2026 is the addition of the “Short Sport” course. This course offers up a fun challenge for skilled mountain bikers who maybe don’t want to bite off all that the regular sport course offers up. With the addition of new trails and a desire to cut down on conflict among race categories, we have changed up the rest of the courses as well. Head over to The Courses page for more details.