IMBA announces nine new EPICS for 2017
Originally posted on December 13, 2017 at 8:39 amThe International Mountain Biking Association has announced its 2017 class of IMBA EPICS, consisting of nine trails and trail systems in the United States and beyond.
IMBA EPICS are defined as “demanding, mostly (at least 80%) singletrack trail experiences in a natural setting that are technically and physically challenging, at least 20 miles in length, and denote a true backcountry experience.” These are “bucket list” rides nominated by local riders and serve as inspiration for “bucket list” adventures.
There are now 46 EPICS in all regions of the U.S., as well as Australia, Canada, Finland, Iceland New Zealand and Wales.
IMBA says, “The new class of IMBA EPICS range from a 50-mile backcountry ride in New Zealand that winds its way through remote valleys, across mountain tops and down river gorges and should only be attempted by experienced, self-sufficient riders; to the well-loved and well-known Tsali Loops along North Carolina’s Fontana Lake.”
Here are the 2017 designees:
Aspen Snowmass Mega Loop, Aspen, CO
Galena Grinder, Sun Valley, ID
Heaphy Track, Nelson, New Zealand
Johnson Pass, Kenai Peninsula, AK
Mohican State Park MTB Trail, Loudonville, OH
Old Ghost Road, Nelson, New Zealand
Sininen Saavutus Trail, Hossa National Park, Finland
South Boundary Trail, Taos, NM
Tsali Loops, Bryson City, NC
More information about all IMBA EPICS can be found here.