Location: Wilson

Kansas Fat Tire Festival 2009

The Kansas Fat Tire Festival is an annual two-day mountain bike event on some of the most picturesque bike trails in Kansas. This year’s event takes place May 2-3 at Hell Creek State Park, Lake Wilson, Kansas. see map

From the official flyer:

Kansas Fat Tire Festival 2009 FlyerLake Wilson is a stunning lake surrounded by bluffs, hills and canyons. The trail itself offers panoramic views of the lake and terrain. It includes rocky technical sections with some interesting switchbacks separated by climbs and descents that will leave you breathless.

We recommend riders take a practice lap, or two, on the 15 plus miles of trails to enjoy the ledge trail snaking along a forty-foot drop to Wilson’s clear blue waters. The Hell Creek loop crosses under the towering bridge and winds around secluded canyon coves and sandy beaches.

With an asphalt road dissecting much of the loop, the course is an excellent venue for spectators. As the course winds through the park, family, friends and fans can follow riders through much of the race.

Saturday riders can compete in a short hill climb event that starts in the bottoms and winds up one of the higher peaks on the course. The race begins at 3 p.m. with riders departing in one-minute intervals. With a racers and fans dinner at 6:30 p.m., there is plenty of time to roam around and enjoy the lake, pre-ride the race course or take a stroll around Rock Town on the northern shores.

Sunday’s main event starts at 11 a.m. with experts covering 23 miles, sport 15, beginners 8. A short kids’ race will begin at 10:30 a.m. There is no charge for the kids’ race. Adult races are $25 each or $40 for both, which includes a t-shirt and one meal ticket. Additional meals are $8. Please specify size of shirt when ordering.

Although the racing doesn’t officially start until Saturday, many riders arrive on Friday night, camp out, and make it a full weekend of riding and enjoying the beauty and diversity of Lake Wilson.


About The Author

By Randy Rasa, editor/webmaster at Kansas Cyclist, the web's premier Kansas cycling information site, featuring authoritative guides to Kansas cycling clubs, bike shops, organized bike rides, touring, trails, and much more. [learn more]

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