Chuska Weekend - Best Mountain Biking in the Four Corners

Native News Network Staff in Native Currents. Discussion »

TSAILE, ARIZONA – The 2012 Chuska Challenge will be based at Dineé College in Tsaile this fall, giving riders some of the best mountain biking in the Four Corners.

NavajoYES Program Participants

This year's Chuska route will include spectacular riding, beginning at just over 7,000 feet elevation and climbing into the range on tribal roads and old logging routes. Riders may opt for rides of 20 miles, up to 45 miles depending on their skills and interest. The most advanced route climbs to 9,800 feet at the summit of Roof Butte.

The Chuska benefits the work of NavajoYES, a Navajo Nation nonprofit that offers outdoor adventure programs, service projects and community outreach throughout the year. NavajoYES also sponsors the Tour de Rez adventure each summer.

A benefit auction featuring Navajo rugs, local art and outdoor gear, plus a raffle drawing with hundreds of prizes, are a couple ways in which you can support the cause throughout the weekend. Additional contributions at registration or on Chuska weekend are welcome, as well. Our very own Chuska Trading Post will feature tons of gear, t-shirts and art available for purchase at great prices all weekend.

All routes include aid stations, which will be well-stocked with great tasting fuel and plenty of fluids. Kathy's Chuska-famous pasta salad will be one of the personal touches you'll enjoy on the trail. Along the way, you will find plenty of rider support, medical and basic mechanical aid. You'll find stunning fall colors across the reservation high country.

More NavajoYES Program Participants

Part of the Chuska weekend includes great entertainment and cool activities - both on the trail and at Tsaile. The native blues duo of flutist Jimmy Keith and Nolan James will be playing throughout the weekend. Esther Peaches will be star gazing and leading night sky activities from a Dineé perspective on both nights and will also be showing adventure flicks on the big screeen at the Hatahlie Center all weekend long.

Dineé storyteller Larry King will be sharing his amazing stories of Navajo history and culture in the Hogan, which will also serve as a cozy sleeping spot for those camping out on Friday or Saturday night.

The rates are great for early registration - just $30 for adults and $20 for youth. You can sign up at active.com/event

Registration includes a light pre-ride breakfast, well-stocked aid stations all day, a hearty dinner and entertainment at the finish. Camping is available on Friday and Saturday nights on the campus of Dineé College.

Beautiful Chuska t-shirts are available at the time of registration and will also be on sale at Tsaile. You can choose from the classic - our long sleeve 100% cotton tee for just $15 and tech shirts for only $20. Riders may enjoy shopping at the Chuska Store, which will feature a collection of outdoor gear, bike accessories, past Chuska & TDR t-shirts and Southwestern art.

posted September 25, 2012 9:50 am edt