In 1988, in celebration of Montana's centennial, Annick Smith and William Kittredge published a book titled, The Last Best Place, A Montana Anthology, from which our race gains its namesake.



Working with friends and editors, the two compiled journals, essays, stories, poems, and indigenous oral histories to help paint a portrait of the state through its literature. The book became a national bestseller, and the title accrued its own history, as many Montana residents adopted it as the unofficial moniker for their home state.



Though the scope of The Last Best Ride does not cover as much statewide geographical ground as the collection Smith and Kittredge present, we believe that our event will showcase some of Northwest Montana's most spectacular outdoor offerings.



In the spirit of the anthology, we hope to enrich your visit beyond the bubble of the bike race. Partnering with local businesses and neighborhood volunteers, we hope to provide you with an original Montana experience that celebrates and champions community and inclusion.



RACE DAY SCHEDULE

Saturday - 1pm - 5pm - Packet Pickup @ Great Northern Cycles

Sunday - 6am - Packet Pickup @ Great Northern Cycles,

7:30am Long Course Start

7:45am Short Course Start



WHAT'S INCLUDED

* TLBR custom socks
* Post race drinks
* Post race ice cream
* Fully stocked aid stations
* Ride support
* Finishers medal



PODIUMS

if you need to leave early let us know and you can grab your prize.

2PM - SHORT COURSE PODIUMS BEGIN

5PM - LONG COURSE PODIUMS BEGIN

Top 5 M/W Short/Long Course,

Top 5 Non-Binary Short/Long Course,

Top 5 Para Short/Long Course.

Top 3 M/F Junior Short Course 18 and under

Top 3 M/F Masters 40-49, 50-59, 60-69, 70-79, Short/Long Course





*Not currently permitted through a special use authorization by the USDA, Forest Service.

*Proposed activities are (or) Recreation event is currently under analysis by the Forest Service pending a special use authorization.

For more information head to https://www.thelastbestridemt.com/