2026 marks the 100th anniversary of the Pabst Mine Disaster, one of the worst mine disasters in US history. A massive cave-in at the Pabst G Shaft killed three miners and trapped 43 others. Those miners survived 129 hours with nothing more than their lunches and the water seeping from the walls of the mine to sustain them. Families and the nation waited and worried over five days until the rescuers reached the men from the neighboring H shaft.
Miners Memorial Heritage Park is hosting this “test event” to get feedback on the concept of an adventure race commemorating this amazing rescue. We invite you to do the ride… either solo or as a team. Muscular and e-bikes welcome. After the ride, we’ll get together for snacks to get feedback on this adventure/scavenger hunt ride/race.
Where: Miners Memorial Heritage Park Red Devil Trailhead
When: September 26, 2026. 9 AM – 3 PM. Refreshments and feedback on the event 3:30-5:30 PM (location TBA).
How: The ride lasts 6 hours—1 hour for each of the nearly six days the miners were trapped underground. Individuals can complete the time solo, or teams of two or three can divide up the 6 hours amongst themselves.
Riders will receive a “manifest” and a map listing the landmarks and trail loops where they collect points. Points are awarded for each lap of a designated loop in Miners Park, and riders can navigate to other trails and area landmarks to collect higher value points. The folks with the highest points at the end “win.” This year is a test ride, so riders are “on their honor” to report their points. (Cheaters never prosper!)
THIS IS AN OPEN COURSE! Rule #1: Don’t be a jerk to people and vehicles that you encounter. Follow all rules of the road–don’t blow through stop signs or stop lights, stay on the right side of the road, be respectful and announce your presence to pedestrians. Being kind and protecting your life is more important than getting more points.
This is an informal test event, but RSVPs to sueskisbikesclimbs@gmail.com will help us plan for printing course guides and making refreshments… walk-ups still welcome.
