OC MTB Races is excited to offer the mountain bike community two thrilling XC races in Orange County. These races take place in two spectacular protected wildlands, Limestone Canyon Nature Preserve and Gypsum Canyon. These rarely open lands will captivate riders with panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean, Catalina Island, Irvine Lake, and the Cleveland National Forest. $2500 CA$H purse for the top 5 male/female finishers and top 3 in class take home custom Baghouse trophies! We take pride in giving you the best bang for your buck. Post-race refreshments and a raffle for all!
2025 Race Dates:
August 23rd, 2025 – OC MTB Gypsum XC Race 17m
November 15th, 2025 – OC MTB Limestone XC Race 21m
2024 Events
OC MTB Gypsum Canyon XC Race 17m – August 24th, 2024
General information and Registration
Come join us on newly opened trails! The 5-lap course is 17 miles of singletrack and fire-road with approximately 2652 feet of elevation gain.
Gypsum Canyon Wilderness is set within 500 acres of Irvine Ranch Open Space, the trails pass by dramatic sandstone cliffs formed 16 to 20 million years ago when prehistoric animals roamed the area. Each lap will offer an adventurous ride twisting through oak-studded meadows and at the apex views of the surrounding canyon, Santa Ana Mountains, and beyond.
OC MTB Limestone XC Race 21m – Nov. 9th, 2024
General information and Registration
Come join us for the unique experience to race in Limestone Canyon. The 1 lap course is 21 miles of fire-road and single track. It has a mix of everything from technical trails, switch backs, and steep inclines and descents
Limestone Canyon offers riders the experience of seeing “original California” in its fall glory. The course will meander under a canopy of thick oaks, alongside seasonal creeks, a year-round dripping spring and past a striking geological formation known as “the Sinks.” This pristine canyon will give riders a sense of calm solitude as they race through serene meadows and rolling hills. Once on the ridge you will be captivated by panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean, Catalina Island, Irvine Lake, and the Cleveland National Forest.
OC MTB Races works as a partner with OC Parks and the Irvine Ranch Conservancy. We encourage our mountain bikers to contribute time to the land by volunteering for activities with OC Parks and The Irvine Ranch Conservancy. We also encourage our riders to adhere to all trail safety rules. Pre-riding the course is not allowed unless it occurs on wilderness access days or docent-led activities. Pre-riding the course may jeopardize our ability to offer these events.
We invite you to join our mountain bike races and discover the unique land in which we live, work, and play!