The Sylvan Island Stampede is the premier season-opening mountain bike race for Iowa, Illinois, and Wisconsin Hosted by the Friends of Off-Road Cycling (FORC), this event transforms an abandoned industrial site into a high-energy "MTB playground".
Consisting of a ~4 mile loop of closely spaced, tight, and twisty island singletrack. Rocks, roots, concrete rubble, bricks, old building foundations, and slag debris will be the norm for most trails on the island. There isn't much elevation change but lots of tight corners meaning short punchy efforts. Do your interval training! Pre-riding the course is recommended to get familiar with passing areas (there aren't many).
Course Description
- Terrain: A ~4-mile loop of tight, twisty island singletrack. Expect a unique urban-off-road mix featuring rocks, roots, concrete rubble, bricks, old building foundations, and slag debris.
- Elevation: Minimal elevation changes. The challenge comes from constant, tight corners that require frequent short, punchy efforts rather than long climbs.
- Durability: The island’s sandy and rocky soil allows it to dry quickly and resist rutting, making it one of the most resilient early-season trails in the region.
Event Highlights
- Race Categories: Multiple distances are available to accommodate all skill levels:
- Long XC (5 Laps, ~20 miles): For Expert and strong Sport riders.
- Short XC (3 Laps, ~12 miles): For strong Novice and Sport riders.
- Beginner & Junior (2 Laps, ~8 miles): Ideal for those new to racing.
- Kids Race: A FREE non-technical loop for children 10 and under (usually held around 10:30–11:00 am).
- Atmosphere: On-site food vendors are typically available, and spectators are encouraged to join and watch from various points on the island.
- Purpose: All proceeds go toward purchasing tools and materials for the maintenance and improvement of local Quad Cities off-road trails.