Stage 1: GRIT

Climb High. Roll Fast. Ride It Home.

Route details subject to change pending permits, weather, natural distasters, force majeur, etc.

Start: Camp Wood (Williamson Valley Rd / West Camp Wood Rd)
Finish: Williamson Valley Rd
Long Course: 54.5 mi (87.7 km) / 4,019 ft gain (1,224 m)
Short Course: 42.2 mi (67.9 km) / 3,186 ft gain (971 m)

Important Times

• 7:00 am - 8:00 AM: Last chance for package pickup at Start Line

• 9:00 am: Stage 1 Start

• 4:00 pm: Course Closed / Max. Time

Stage Story

High country climbs, long rollers, and a fast run home

The Camp Wood stage is a classic Rough Rider test—long, honest climbing into high country forest, followed by rolling gravel, technical descents, and a wide-open run back to town. It’s a stage that rewards patience early and confidence late, with big views, quiet roads, and changing landscapes from start to finish.

You’ll begin in scrub desert and end there too—but everything in between feels like another world.

Route Breakdown

Scrub Desert Rollout

The stage begins at the intersection of Williamson Valley Road and West Camp Wood Road, heading west into open desert terrain. The opening miles climb gradually and steadily—nothing punchy, but no freebies either. This first stretch is all about settling into rhythm and managing effort as the road slowly tilts upward.

The Main Climb

After roughly 9–10 miles, the stage delivers its defining climb: a sustained ascent gaining close to 1,000 feet. As you climb, the landscape transforms—scrub gives way to ponderosa pine, temperatures cool, and the views open wide. This is the biggest effort of the day, and where smart pacing pays off.

High Country Rollers

At the top of the climb, the route transitions into rolling terrain through beautiful forest roads. The gravel here is generally smooth and fast, inviting strong group riding and steady tempo. This section feels remote, quiet, and distinctly “Arizona backcountry.”

Long / Short Course Split

At approximately 15.4 miles, the route splits:

• Short Course riders turn right and begin the long, descending return toward Prescott.

• Long Course riders continue straight for a rolling out-and-back to YOLO Ranch, adding distance, elevation, and a true endurance test before rejoining the Scout route.

The Long Course turnaround brings riders back to the junction at approximately 27.7 miles, where the two routes reunite.

Walnut Creek Descent

From the junction, the stage turns left onto Walnut Creek Road and begins a long descent broken by short climbs and rougher gravel through small drainages. This section demands focus—line choice matters—but rewards riders with flow and speed as the road gradually drops out of the forest.

As the descent continues, trees thin and the route transitions back into open desert terrain.

The Run Home

A right turn onto Walnut Creek Cutoff Road leads back to Williamson Valley Road. From here, it’s a gradual, fast run to the finish. Expect exposure and the possibility of crosswinds—this final stretch can be quick but unforgiving if you’ve burned too many matches earlier.

That’s Stage 1, and your first earned badge of GRIT.

What to Expect

Surface Mix

• Mostly smooth gravel roads

• Rougher sections through drainages

• Possible washboard rollers mid-stage

Effort Profile

• Long early climb

• High-country rollers

• Extended descent

Ride Like Buckey Tips

• Don’t chase the wild west pace – ride your rhythm

• Hydration matters at this altitude. Drink early and drink often

• Bring a layer for a possible chilly start

NEXT UP STAGE 2: GRIND >