There are usually a multiplicity of reasons why race organizers put on races. Most often, it’s simply never just one reason, but many. What are they? They range from tourism and exposure of an area, economic development for a community in need of a boost or turnaround, showcasing new or existing trails, and so much more. All reasons are valid and important, including financial incentives to make it work and profitable. The good news is that most often, those benefits extend to many other partners, such as local businesses like restaurants and food trucks, lodging accommodations, bike shops, and other vendors. These are all healthy and essential.

But what if one of the reasons for putting on a race was also to raise money to build more trails? Welcome to the Verde Valley Rally in Cottonwood, Arizona.

Under the umbrella of trail building, there are a wide variety of trails that get built. Most often, when we hear or think of the words “trail building,” our minds are flooded with images ranging from a UCI DH course to the recent Redbull Hardline in Tasmania or even the Redbull Rampage in Utah. We think of massive berms, tabletops, enough jumps, and lots of flow. But have you ever thought about what it takes to build and maintain an XC race course?

I ventured away from Portland’s rainy climate a few weekends ago to attend a mountain bike race in Echo, Oregon. I had never been there before, let alone ridden there. I’ve known about the trails for years, but since XC riding days have long been in my rearview mirror, I never felt compelled to drive three hours just to pedal. But that all changed for me.