Your Guide to Fall Endurance Events in Mammoth Lakes

July 09, 2025

Each autumn, Mammoth Lakes becomes a beacon for endurance athletes—drawing cyclists, runners, climbers, and obstacle racers to train and compete at elevation. With crisp mountain air, a vibrant community, and breathtaking Sierra scenery, it's the ideal destination for high-altitude training and fall adventure. Plan your getaway around these standout events.

Mammoth Gran Fondo – Sept 6, 2025

The Mammoth Gran Fondo is an iconic ride offering three stunning route options—102, 70, or 42 miles—starting and finishing in The Village at 8,074 ft elevation. The grueling 102-mile route climbs 6,804 ft through closed roads winding past iconic Eastern Sierra landscapes like Mono Lake tufas, volcanic craters and the White Mountains, with six fully stocked rest stops, clothing drops, and professional support. Launched with a dramatic mass start, this Fondo was named a top-10 century ride by Bicycling Magazine. After crossing the finish line, riders celebrate with free food, beer, live music, awards, and camaraderie—all in The Village’s post-ride festival. Join this high-alpine challenge and celebrate its special 30th anniversary year!

group of cyclists biking on paved road with mountains in the background

Mammoth TUFF – Sept 12–14, 2025

Part of the UCI Gravel World Series, TUFF challenges riders over rough and scenic terrain in the Long Valley and Volcanic Tablelands. Choose from 40-mile “TUFF,” 60–75-mile “TUFFER,” or the elite UCI-qualifier 85–100-mile “TUFFEST” course—each offering rugged gravel and paved sections, with elevation gains ranging from 2,300 to over 7,400 ft. Aid stations dot the route, along with on-course mechanical support. Beyond the ride, enjoy group pre-rides, a Friday beer mile, and a Village wrap party with live music and local eats.

person biking over a bridge past a meandering river and mountains in the background

Flash Foxy Trad Fest – Sept 12–14, 2025

This fall, Mammoth Lakes hosts its first-ever Flash Foxy Trad Fest—a three-day climbing festival created by and for women and genderqueer climbers. Centered around traditional climbing, the event also features supplemental clinics in bouldering and top-roping to welcome a range of skill levels. The weekend kicks off with an opening party, the Foxy Fair vendor market, film screenings, and panel discussions. Throughout the festival, participants can enjoy gear demos, yoga sessions, and a community stewardship project. Whether you're an experienced climber or just getting started, it's a supportive, inclusive environment built for learning, connection, and mountain adventure.

Group of climbers wearing helmets
Credit: @sierrafarquhar

Mammoth Trailfest – Sept 18–21, 2025

Under the guidance of local trail legend Tim Tollefson, this growing trail running festival offers unreal views paired with a strong sense of community. The Trailfest offers a range of distances winding through alpine meadows, golden aspen groves, and fragrant sagebrush - from a hillclimb ascent race up the iconic Dragon's Back, a nighttime 10K, or an intense 50K. Expect supportive workshops, evening gatherings with live entertainment, delicious local food, and a welcoming atmosphere without the competitive edge.

The Mammoth – Sept 26–30, 2025

The ultimate ultra challenge. The Mammoth is a 208 mile loop through alpine lakes, volcanic desert, and remote mountain trails featuring 32,000 feet of climbing. Starting and finishing in The Village, the route delivers one of the most epic endurance adventures in the Eastern Sierra. Expect high elevation, serious mileage, and unforgettable moments that push your physical and mental limits.

Spartan Super World Championships – Oct 4–5, 2025

For the first time, Mammoth Mountain hosts the Spartan World Championships a 10K obstacle race with 25 obstacle course challenges—including Sprint and Beast options and races for kids. Athletes from around the world will battle dirt, mountains, personal perseverance in this high-altitude showdown. Whether you’re here to qualify as a Super Elite or sprint for fun, the Eastern Sierra terrain provides a thrilling layer of challenge and reward.

man balancing in obstacle course with mountains in the background

Plan Your Visit

  • Travel: Find everything you need to know about arriving to Mammoth Lakes, CA on our Travel Information page. For visitors flying here, United offers seasonal SFO–Bishop (BIH) flights Sept. 4–Oct. 6.
  • Lodging: Nestled in the stunning Sierra Nevada mountain range, Mammoth Lakes’ accommodations provide a perfect stay for athletes, spectators, and enthusiasts alike.
  • High-altitude Prep: Position yourself for success—come early before your event to acclimate while polishing off your last days training.
parked plane with mountains, blue sky and clouds in the backdrop

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Visit Mammoth
Author
Visit Mammoth
Unreal. There is no better way to describe Mammoth Lakes, California. A place so majestic that breathtaking views surround you in every direction. The staff at Mammoth Lakes Tourism is committed to stewardship, education, providing the ultimate visitor experience, and keeping the Real Unreal.
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