Mud Sweat & Beers 2026 - The Sweet 16!
- Date Fri 10th April 2026 - Sat 2nd May 2026
- Time 6:00PM EDT
- Location Traverse City, Michigan
- Price Free - $64.60
- Races 25 races
Event summary
Get ready for an exhilarating experience at the Mud, Sweat & Beers 2026, taking place from April 10 to May 2, 2026, in the stunning Traverse City, Grand Traverse region! This highly anticipated spring cycling event, now in its 16th year, promises to deliver an unforgettable day of mountain biking fun at the scenic Mt. Holiday Ski and Recreational Area. With race distances catering to all levels of riders, participants can choose from a thrilling 25-mile Stout, a 12-mile Pale Ale, or a fun under 2-mile Ginger Ale course. Kids can join the excitement too with the Mini Loop, affectionately known as the Mud, Sweat & Root Beers.
This year, the event is embracing an awesome 1980s theme, introducing a new RetroKlunkers category for those with pre-1995 rides. Expect high-energy competition, a vibrant atmosphere, and local brews on tap for adult participants. All proceeds support Mt. Holiday, the Midwest's only nonprofit ski and recreation area, ensuring that every pedal stroke contributes to community well-being. Mark your calendars for May 2, 2026, and get ready to ride, celebrate, and make lasting memories with fellow cycling
This year, the event is embracing an awesome 1980s theme, introducing a new RetroKlunkers category for those with pre-1995 rides. Expect high-energy competition, a vibrant atmosphere, and local brews on tap for adult participants. All proceeds support Mt. Holiday, the Midwest's only nonprofit ski and recreation area, ensuring that every pedal stroke contributes to community well-being. Mark your calendars for May 2, 2026, and get ready to ride, celebrate, and make lasting memories with fellow cycling
Organiser's Description
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 Michigans 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. Holidays stadium finish.
This years 16th annual race is going full 1980s! Were introducing a new RetroKlunkers 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 Citys best.
All proceeds from the event support Mt. Holiday, the Midwests 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 riders 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, 47 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, 78:30 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, 121 PM
Root Beer Race Start: 1 PM
Awards Presentations: 2 PM
Beer & Food Tent: 10 AM3 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.
Mud, Sweat & Beers is one of Michigans 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. Holidays stadium finish.
This years 16th annual race is going full 1980s! Were introducing a new RetroKlunkers 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 Citys best.
All proceeds from the event support Mt. Holiday, the Midwests 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 riders 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, 47 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, 78:30 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, 121 PM
Root Beer Race Start: 1 PM
Awards Presentations: 2 PM
Beer & Food Tent: 10 AM3 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.
Races
-
Stout - Elite/Pro
Incl. $4.60 Fee
Sat 2nd May 2026 (9:00AM EDT)
$64.60
OPENS 30 NOVThe Stout (25 miles or so) has everything you would want in a spring race - plenty of climbs and descents sprinkled along some of Michigan's best single track and the VASA Pathway. We call it Stout for a reason. -
Stout - Expert
Incl. $4.60 Fee
Sat 2nd May 2026 (9:00AM EDT)
$64.60
OPENS 30 NOVThe Stout (25 miles or so) has everything you would want in a spring race - plenty of climbs and descents sprinkled along some of Michigan's best single track and the VASA Pathway. We call it Stout for a reason. -
Stout - Sport
Incl. $4.60 Fee
Sat 2nd May 2026 (9:00AM EDT)
$64.60
OPENS 30 NOVThe Stout (25 miles or so) has everything you would want in a spring race - plenty of climbs and descents sprinkled along some of Michigan's best single track and the VASA Pathway. We call it Stout for a reason. -
Stout - Fat Bike
Incl. $4.60 Fee
Sat 2nd May 2026 (9:00AM EDT)
$64.60
OPENS 30 NOVThe Stout (25 miles or so) has everything you would want in a spring race - plenty of climbs and descents sprinkled along some of Michigan's best single track and the VASA Pathway. We call it Stout for a reason. -
Stout - SS/Fixed
Incl. $4.60 Fee
Sat 2nd May 2026 (9:00AM EDT)
$64.60
OPENS 30 NOVThe Stout (25 miles or so) has everything you would want in a spring race - plenty of climbs and descents sprinkled along some of Michigan's best single track and the VASA Pathway. We call it Stout for a reason. -
Stout - Clydesdale (200+ Lbs)
Incl. $4.60 Fee
Sat 2nd May 2026 (9:00AM EDT)
$64.60
OPENS 30 NOV200 lbs or greater The Stout (25 miles or so) has everything you would want in a spring race - plenty of climbs and descents sprinkled along some of Michigan's best single track and the VASA Pathway. We call it Stout for a reason. -
Stout - Athena (150+ Lbs)
Incl. $4.60 Fee
Sat 2nd May 2026 (9:00AM EDT)
$64.60
OPENS 30 NOV150 lbs or greater The Stout (25 miles or so) has everything you would want in a spring race - plenty of climbs and descents sprinkled along some of Michigan's best single track and the VASA Pathway. We call it Stout for a reason. -
Vintage - Klunkers (Pre-1995 Mountain Bikes Only!)
Incl. $4.60 Fee
Sat 2nd May 2026 (9:00AM EDT)
$64.60
OPENS 30 NOV32 lb bike with NO carbon The Stout (25 miles or so) has everything you would want in a spring race - plenty of climbs and descents sprinkled along some of Michigan's best single track and the VASA Pathway. We call it Stout for a reason. -
Stout - Tandem
Incl. $4.60 Fee
Sat 2nd May 2026 (9:00AM EDT)
$64.60
OPENS 30 NOVThe Stout (25 miles or so) has everything you would want in a spring race - plenty of climbs and descents sprinkled along some of Michigan's best single track and the VASA Pathway. We call it Stout for a reason. -
Stout - Tour
Incl. $4.60 Fee
Sat 2nd May 2026 (9:00AM EDT)
$64.60
OPENS 30 NOVThe Stout (25 miles or so) has everything you would want in a spring race - plenty of climbs and descents sprinkled along some of Michigan's best single track and the VASA Pathway. We call it Stout for a reason. -
Pale Ale - Sport
Incl. $4.60 Fee
Sat 2nd May 2026 (9:00AM EDT)
$64.60
OPENS 30 NOVThe Pale Ale (12 mile) will be perfect for those looking to stretch their legs and get outside after the long winter. The Pale Ale follows much of the same trail as the Stout so be sure to train for the same tough climbs and single track. -
Pale Ale - Beginner
Incl. $4.60 Fee
Sat 2nd May 2026 (9:00AM EDT)
$64.60
OPENS 30 NOVThe Pale Ale (12 mile) will be perfect for those looking to stretch their legs and get outside after the long winter. The Pale Ale follows much of the same trail as the Stout so be sure to train for the same tough climbs and single track. -
Pale Ale - Clydesdale (200+ Lbs)
Incl. $4.60 Fee
Sat 2nd May 2026 (9:00AM EDT)
$64.60
OPENS 30 NOV200 lbs or greater The Pale Ale (12 mile) will be perfect for those looking to stretch their legs and get outside after the long winter. The Pale Ale follows much of the same trail as the Stout so be sure to train for the same tough climbs and single track. -
Pale Ale - Athena (150+ Lbs)
Incl. $4.60 Fee
Sat 2nd May 2026 (9:00AM EDT)
$64.60
OPENS 30 NOV150 lbs or greater The Pale Ale (12 mile) will be perfect for those looking to stretch their legs and get outside after the long winter. The Pale Ale follows much of the same trail as the Stout so be sure to train for the same tough climbs and single track. -
Pale Ale - SS/Fixed
Incl. $4.60 Fee
Sat 2nd May 2026 (9:00AM EDT)
$64.60
OPENS 30 NOVThe Pale Ale (12 mile) will be perfect for those looking to stretch their legs and get outside after the long winter. The Pale Ale follows much of the same trail as the Stout so be sure to train for the same tough climbs and single track. -
Pale Ale - Fat Bike
Incl. $4.60 Fee
Sat 2nd May 2026 (9:00AM EDT)
$64.60
OPENS 30 NOVThe Pale Ale (12 mile) will be perfect for those looking to stretch their legs and get outside after the long winter. The Pale Ale follows much of the same trail as the Stout so be sure to train for the same tough climbs and single track. -
Vintage - Klunkers (Pre-1995 Mountain Bikes Only!)
Incl. $4.60 Fee
Sat 2nd May 2026 (9:00AM EDT)
$64.60
OPENS 30 NOV32 lb bike with NO carbon The Pale Ale (12 mile) will be perfect for those looking to stretch their legs and get outside after the long winter. The Pale Ale follows much of the same trail as the Stout so be sure to train for the same tough climbs and single track. -
Pale Ale - Tandem
Incl. $4.60 Fee
Sat 2nd May 2026 (9:00AM EDT)
$64.60
OPENS 30 NOVThe Pale Ale (12 mile) will be perfect for those looking to stretch their legs and get outside after the long winter. The Pale Ale follows much of the same trail as the Stout so be sure to train for the same tough climbs and single track. -
Pale Ale - Unicycle
Incl. $4.60 Fee
Sat 2nd May 2026 (9:00AM EDT)
$64.60
OPENS 30 NOVYes - we have a mountain unicycle participant. Amazing! -
Pale Ale - Tour
Incl. $4.60 Fee
Sat 2nd May 2026 (9:00AM EDT)
$64.60
OPENS 30 NOVThe Pale Ale (12 mile) will be perfect for those looking to stretch their legs and get outside after the long winter. The Pale Ale follows much of the same trail as the Stout so be sure to train for the same tough climbs and single track. -
Ginger Ale - 2 Miles
Incl. $1.90 Fee
Sat 2nd May 2026 (9:00AM EDT)
$16.90
OPENS 30 NOVGinger Ale will be grouped by age and gender and will not be timed. -
Root Beer - 1/4 Mile
Incl. $1.60 Fee
Sat 2nd May 2026 (9:00AM EDT)
$11.60
OPENS 30 NOVRoot Beer entrants will be grouped by boys and girls in the following categories: * 6 and Under * 7 and over -
Skills Clinic - April 11
Fri 10th April 2026 (6:00PM EDT)
Free
OPENS 30 NOVMountain bike skills clinic to help riders improve their riding experience and improve performance. Now is your chance for free coaching. Clinic will be tailored to participant skill levels. Topics will include: - Bike handling - Shifting strategy - Bike Fit - Nutrition - Race pacing - Trail-side bike maintenance Clinic will take place on the MSB course trails to the south of Mt. Holiday. -
Skills Clinic - April 18
Fri 17th April 2026 (6:00PM EDT)
Free
OPENS 30 NOVMountain bike skills clinic to help riders improve their riding experience and improve performance. Now is your chance for free coaching. Clinic will be tailored to participant skill levels. Topics will include: - Bike handling - Shifting strategy - Bike Fit - Nutrition - Race pacing - Trail-side bike maintenance Clinic will take place on the MSB course trails to the south of Mt. Holiday. -
Course Pre-Ride - April 25
Fri 24th April 2026 (6:00PM EDT)
Free
OPENS 30 NOVCoach/guide led pre-ride of the MSB 2022 courses. Starting and ending at Mt. Holiday. Learn all the ins and outs of the track.
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3100 Holiday Road, Traverse City, 49686, MI, United States
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Mud Sweat & Beers 2026 - The Sweet 16!
