Alta Alpina Challenge: Riding the Wild Sierra FAQs

Q: Will the Alta Alpina 8 Pass Challenge be held in 2026?

A: Yes! The Alta Alpina 8 Pass Challenge is back for 2026 and will be held on June 27, the last Saturday in June (the usual weekend). Our start/finsh location is returning to Turtle Rock Park. However we will not be hosting the Metric, Century, 5 Pass, and 7 Pass options.

Q: Are the passes open?

A: Kingsbury, Luther, and Carson passes remain open throughout the winter. Monitor Pass typically opens in April or early May. Ebbetts typically opens by mid May. Blue Lakes Road is always the last to open but will typically be rideable by mid June.

Q: Are there any changes to the routes and route options for the 2024 Edition?

A: The Wild Sierra Century route will start with Carson Pass as it did in 2023. All other ride options have returned to their pre-pandemic routes.

Q: Will there be changes to the timing of the 2026 Edition?

A: Timing for the 8 Pass Challenge remains unchanged. Before riding, please be sure to review the timing chart and familiarize yourself with the opening and closing times for each section of the route and all the cut-off times.

Q: Will there be new limits on the number of participants?

A: At this time the total number of participants is still capped at 400. Registration will close when we reach our capacity.

Q: Will the menu remain the same?

A: We don't anticipate making any changes to our traditional food and beverage offerings. However if there are particular items that are very important to you, please let us know.

Q: If the Alta Alpina Challenge can't take place as scheduled can I get a refund?

A: We begin spending registration fees as we receive them so we are unable to issue full refunds. However if we must postpone the event, your registration will apply to the new date or may be credited to a future event.