Elan Valley MTB Challenge

The legendary Elan Valley MTB Challenge returns on 13/09/2026… and for the FIRST TIME EVER we are going BIGGER than we’ve ever gone before…

Introducing the brand new 100KM ULTRA ROUTE.

This is something riders have been asking us for over the years and now we’re finally unleashing it. Bigger mountains. Bigger climbs. Bigger adventure. More remote trails. More suffering. More reward.

If you’ve ever wanted to test yourself properly on one of the UK’s most iconic MTB challenges — this is it.

Now in its SIXTH year, the Elan Valley MTB Challenge has built a reputation as one of the UK’s must-do MTB events, featuring in Red Bull MTB’s Top 10 MTB Challenges every single year since it began.

This is old-school mountain biking at its absolute best.
Big climbs. Fast flowing descents. Technical sections. Wild open landscapes. Remote trails. That feeling of being completely out in the middle of nowhere with nothing but mountains, fresh air and your bike.

This is what proper mountain biking is all about.

The Elan Challenge is not a race. Never has been.
It’s a challenge — ridden at your own pace with chilled-out vibes, friendly riders and one of the most relaxed atmospheres on the MTB calendar. That’s exactly why so many riders return year after year.

Relaxed doesn’t mean unorganised though. Safety, planning and professionalism are always at the heart of everything we do, so you can focus on enjoying an incredible day on the bike knowing everything else is taken care of.

As always, e-bikes are more than welcome.

Set in what’s quickly becoming the UK hub for mountain biking — and home to some of Red Bull’s favourite UK rides — the course has been designed to give everyone an unforgettable day out. Whether you’re newer to MTB or a seasoned rider looking to test yourself, there’s something here for you.

Route options:

• 35KM
• 55KM
• 100KM ULTRA — NEW FOR 2026

The new 100KM route is not for the faint-hearted. Expect huge climbs, all-day riding, remote mountain terrain and the kind of adventure you’ll still be talking about months later. This is proper mountain biking stripped back to its rawest form.

Expect stunning scenery, natural mountain trails, challenging climbs and unforgettable descents. This is not a groomed trail centre ride — it’s raw, natural mountain biking in its purest form. Some less experienced riders may choose to walk certain technical sections, and that’s absolutely part of the challenge.

Every rider will receive:

• Accurate GPX navigation files
• Legendary mid-way feed station
• Finishers medal — now becoming a collector’s item
• Free parking at Rhayader (LD6 5DP)

A full rider briefing and GPX file will be sent out on the Thursday before the event.

One thing we say every year… spaces are LIMITED and this event always fills fast. Once it’s full, it’s full.

With the launch of the new 100KM Ultra route we expect demand to be even crazier this year, so if you want in, don’t hang around.

Elan Valley MTB Challenge 2026
13th September 2026

Earned. Not Given.