Riders from around Alaska, and even the lower 48, roll into Valdez the first weekend of April each year for the Valdez Fat Bike Bash, featuring a kid-friendly bike parade and rodeo, cross-country race on Valdez Glacier, Tide & Trail race, and - for the boldest of riders - an epic downhill race on Thompson Pass.
This event has something for everyone. 2021 schedule includes youth and family activities, block party, parade, Treasure Ride and Bike & Bark. Individual races are cross country and extreme downhill. 1-3rd trophies for women’s and men’s. Team races are the triathlon (bike, kayak, run) and the biathlon (ski and bike).
The Bike Bash Races
There are two cross-country style races at Valdez Bike Bash this year. The Cross-Country Race is an 11-15 mile loop around Valdez Glacier and the lake, incredible views of the glacial valley and for those looking for an endurance challenge. The Tide and Trail Race is a 2.5 mile route on Homestead Trail out to Kite Beach along Prince William Sound and back along Shoup Bay Trail in Valdez. This one is designed for the new fatbike enthusiast or those looking for a shorter race adventure.
2021 Schedule
Friday, April 2
4:00 PM Registration/Check-in opens
6:00 PM Adult Tri-Athlon (bike, kayak, run) Relay Race
7:00 PM Kids Street Party in front of the Fat Mermaid
7:30 PM Family Parade and Awards
8-10 PM Adult Street Party with DJ
Saturday, April 3
8:00 AM Cross Country Race
2:00 PM Treasure Ride
4:00 PM Adult Bi-Athlon Relay Race (ski, bike)
6:30-8:00 PM Bikes & Beers Social at Valdez Brewery
The community of Valdez committed to COVID-19 safety. The City of Valdez currently has a mask mandate as well as a COVID Conscious Business program.
The Valdez Adventure Alliance issued the following safety announcement for the 2021 Bike Bash:
"Helmets mandatory. Sign in mandatory. Masks requested when not actively riding, eating or drinking. Distancing requested. All State of Alaska and City of Valdez mandates enforced."
Travel Planning
Interested in attending the 2021 Bike Bash? Feel free to contact the Valdez Visitors Center for information regarding travel plans, transportation, accommodations, COVID-19 safety, or more. Give us a call at (907) 835-2984 or email us at info@valdezalaska.org.
