The 25 Hours in Frog Hollow is the ultimate endurance mountain bike race, designed to push riders to their limits in a spectacular desert setting near Hurricane, Utah. Held annually during the fall, the race offers participants the rare experience of racing for a full 25 hours, thanks to the extra hour provided by the daylight savings time switch. The course is set against the breathtaking backdrop of Zion National Park and the Gooseberry Mesa, with sweeping red rock vistas, desert canyons, and slickrock trails. Combining technical sections, fast descents, and varied terrain, the race challenges riders of all skill levels, from seasoned endurance racers to determined first-timers.
The course is a demanding 13-mile loop that offers around 1,000 feet of elevation gain per lap, with a mix of flowing singletrack, rocky climbs, and steep descents. Riders begin the loop on a gradual climb that leads to a rocky technical section, testing bike-handling skills as they navigate slickrock formations and exposed ledges. The course then transitions into smoother, flowing singletrack that allows racers to build speed before tackling the thrilling descents that follow. Notable sections include the “Boy Scout Trail,” which provides sweeping views of the surrounding mesas and valleys, and the “JEM Trail,” known for its fast, flowing corners. The route’s diverse terrain requires racers to maintain focus and adaptability throughout each lap.
As night falls, the difficulty of the race increases dramatically. The course transforms into a challenging test of endurance, concentration, and mental toughness. Riders must navigate the same technical sections they mastered in the daylight, now obscured by darkness. Powerful lighting systems are required, as the landscape’s slickrock and loose gravel trails make night riding particularly tricky. The changing textures underfoot—from hard-packed dirt to loose sand and jagged rock—add an unpredictable element, further intensifying the challenge. Fatigue, cold desert air, and the psychological challenge of riding in near-total darkness create a truly grueling race experience.
The support system for the 25 Hours in Frog Hollow is top-notch, ensuring that racers stay fueled, hydrated, and safe throughout the event. Multiple aid stations are positioned strategically along the course, offering water, energy drinks, snacks, and gels to keep riders going. There is also a fully stocked pit area at the race start/finish, where riders can take breaks, receive mechanical support, and make necessary repairs. Teams and solo riders often set up their own pit stations, where they can refuel, rest, and make use of on-site bike mechanics. Additionally, volunteers and course marshals are stationed throughout the course, ready to offer assistance or notify the event’s medical team in case of emergencies.
Safety is a priority for the event organizers, who implement strict safety protocols and provide comprehensive medical support. Trained medical personnel are on standby at key locations along the course and in the pit area, equipped to handle injuries and dehydration, which can be common in the desert environment. Riders are also briefed extensively before the race on the course’s most challenging technical sections, ensuring that they are aware of potential hazards like loose gravel descents and rocky drops. Reflective markers, course signage, and marshals help guide participants, particularly during the night hours when visibility is limited.
The 25 Hours in Frog Hollow is more than just a race—it’s a celebration of endurance, community, and the love of mountain biking. Whether you’re riding solo or as part of a relay team, the event fosters a strong sense of camaraderie. Riders cheer each other on, offer support during the grueling laps, and come together at the pit area for moments of rest and reflection. After crossing the finish line, participants are greeted with cheers, medals, and a shared sense of accomplishment. Whether you’re a competitive racer or simply looking for a new challenge, the 25 Hours in Frog Hollow offers an unforgettable experience that celebrates both the beauty of the Utah desert and the spirit of adventure.