Stage 1: Castlegar

Rialto Trail Network

Dates:  July 11, 2024

The Location:

Castlegar, nestled in the heart of British Columbia, is a scenic gem where the Kootenay and Columbia Rivers converge. Surrounded by rugged mountains and lush forests, this city is a stone's throw from the Monashee and Selkirk mountain ranges, offering a dramatic backdrop that captivates outdoor enthusiasts. Its geographic location, straddling the West Kootenays, presents a unique blend of terrains, from rolling hills to challenging mountainous landscapes, making it a haven for adventure sports.

Delving into the history of Castlegar, one finds a rich tapestry woven with cultural significance. The area is traditionally the land of the Sinixt (also known as the Lakes) and the Syilx (Okanagan) Peoples, among other First Nations groups. The indigenous heritage profoundly influences the region's character, with historical sites and artifacts highlighting a deep connection to the land. The city itself, named after Castlegar in County Galway, Ireland, began as a small settlement and saw significant growth with the construction of the Canadian Pacific Railway and later the Doukhobor migration at the beginning of the 20th century.

In present-day Castlegar, the city thrives with a vibrant community spirit and a robust economy. Key attractions like the Doukhobor Discovery Centre, Zuckerberg Island Heritage Park, and the brilliant Sculpturewalk exhibit showcase the city's cultural diversity and artistic flair. Economically, Castlegar is fueled by industries such as forestry, education, and healthcare, with top employers like Selkirk College and Interfor playing significant roles. Modern amenities, coupled with a small-town charm, provide residents and visitors with a balanced and enriching lifestyle.

When it comes to mountain biking, Castlegar has steadily risen to prominence. The city's varied terrain offers a plethora of trails, from beginner-friendly paths to challenging technical descents, making it a mountain biker's paradise. The local biking community, passionate and active, has been instrumental in trail development and maintenance, fostering a culture that celebrates the sport. Hosting a stage of the Singletrack 6 Mountain Bike Stage Race is a natural progression for Castlegar. Its diverse trails, stunning landscapes, and a community that embodies the spirit of mountain biking make it an ideal location for this celebrated event. As riders prepare to descend on this trail-rich city, Castlegar stands ready, not just as a host, but as a beacon of the mountain biking world.

The Stage:

Stage 1 of the Singletrack 6 takes off on the Rialto Forest Service Road, offering a mild yet engaging climb for a couple of kilometers. This start is ideal for riders to find their rhythm amidst the serene forestry, setting the tone for the day's adventure. The course quickly ramps up with the "Grand Climb," a masterpiece of trail design. This machine-built ascent is not just a climb; it's a journey through some of the most picturesque landscapes, challenging riders with its relentless gradient and rewarding them with stunning vistas.

What goes up must come down, and the descent on the Grandiflorum trail delivers an exhilarating experience. This trail mixes technical demands with exhilarating drops, ensuring a thrilling ride. The route loops back to the Rialto Forest Service Road for a shorter climb, prepping riders for the lower part of the Awakener trail. This double black trail offers a ride around for its stunts and TTFs, making it accessible yet thrilling for various skill levels. The final descent on the Dirty Dreams trail marks a fitting end to this stage, with its diverse terrain and engaging features. Riders will cross the finish line with a sense of triumph and anticipation for the next challenges.

Despite its shorter distance, Stage 1 packs a punch with its climbs and descents. For those opting for the Half Pint, the race cuts out the upper portions of the Grand Climb and Grandiflorum, and the final climb to the Awakener, but the thrill remains.

$15 per rider donation to the Castlegar Parks and Trails Society for this stage.

Distance: Full Pint 22km, Half Pint

Elevation Gain: Full Pint 1,200m, Half Pint 650m

Timed Descent: lower Grandiflorum 2.2km and 400m elevation loss

Aid/CP: Full pint 7.5 km and 17.3 km; Half pint 7.5 km and 12.5 km

Map:

All routes subject to change.

*Elevation data may be highly variable by device or mapping platform, as different software may use various data sources and calculation methods. Our total elevation gain for the stage is a middle estimate based on readings from multiple devices.