Mud Sweat & Beers 2026 - The Sweet 16!

Join us on May 2, 2026, for the 16th Mud, Sweat & Beers – A Homegrown Spring Cycling Event with Purpose

Mud, Sweat & Beers is one of Michigan’s most anticipated spring mountain bike races, drawing nearly 1,000 riders and hundreds of spectators each year to the trails and lodge at Mt. Holiday. Known for its high-energy atmosphere, challenging courses, and unforgettable finish through a muddy chute, MSB blends competition with celebration, all while supporting local nonprofits. Since 2010, the event has raised over $700,000 for Mt. Holiday and community partners.

Riders will launch and finish at Mt. Holiday Ski and Recreational Area overlooking beautiful Grand Traverse Bay. Adult racers will travel through the scenic VASA Trail system before returning to Mt. Holiday’s stadium finish.

This year’s 16th annual race is going full 1980s! We’re introducing a new Retro–Klunkers category, so dust off those pre-’95 rides, crank up the hair metal, and ride like the wind!

Participants can choose from a 25-mile Stout, 12-mile Pale Ale, under 2-mile Ginger Ale, or the kids’ mini-loop, fondly known as Mud, Sweat & Root Beers. Local brews will be on tap for adult riders, who can enjoy the kids’ race later in the day while sampling Traverse City’s best.

All proceeds from the event support Mt. Holiday, the Midwest’s only nonprofit 501(c)(3) ski and recreation area. Since 1949, Mt. Holiday has been built by the community, for the community. Our mission is to continue that legacy by providing value-driven outdoor fun, fostering connection, and creating a space where everyone can share in the spirit of adventure.

Age groups are determined by the rider’s age on race day.

Race Categories

25-Mile Stout – Categories for both men and women:

Elite
Expert
Sport
Clydesdale/Athena
Tandem
Single Speed/Fixed
Tour (not timed)
Vintage – Klunkers (Pre-1995 Mountain Bikes Only!)

12-Mile Pale Ale – Categories for both men and women:

Sport
Beginner
Clydesdale/Athena
Tandem
Single Speed/Fixed
Tour (not timed)
Vintage – Klunkers (Pre-1995 Mountain Bikes Only!)
Ginger Ale – Grouped by age and gender, not timed.

Root Beer (Kids Race) – Grouped by boys and girls:

6 and under
7 and over
 
Preliminary Schedule for 2026
Friday, May 1, 2026
Packet Pickup: Mt. Holiday, 4–7 PM
New for 2026! The Greater Michigan Ford Dealers Packet Pickup Party in the Mt. Holiday Beer Garden featuring The Headwaters Band!

Saturday, May 2, 2026
Race Day Packet Pickup: Mt. Holiday, 7–8:30 AM
Stout Race Start: 9 AM
Pale Ale Race Start: 9:30 AM
Ginger Ale Race Start: 12:30 PM (approx.)
Root Beer Day Registration: Mt. Holiday Lodge, 12–1 PM
Root Beer Race Start: 1 PM
Awards Presentations: 2 PM
Beer & Food Tent: 10 AM–3 PM

All times and activities are subject to change.

 
Cancellation Policy
No refunds will be issued. Riders who need to cancel may donate their entry fee to Mt. Holiday (501c3) or transfer their registration to another rider. A $25 transfer fee is required, along with a completed registration and signed waiver. All transfer fees will be donated to the Mt. Holiday Scholarship Fund.