The second annual Kisatchie Crusher will return to Caney Lakes Park September 12-13, bringing two days of running, gravel cycling, road riding, and mountain biking to Minden and the surrounding Kisatchie National Forest.
The event, hosted by Bike Minden and Active Minden, is designed to showcase Caney Lakes Park, Kisatchie National Forest, and Minden while raising funds for local trail maintenance and expansion.
“We are excited to have our 2nd annual race. Looking like a great turnout this year with some traveling 300 miles to be here,” said Devin Martin, race director and president of Active Minden.
Martin said proceeds from the event will be used to build bridges, maintain trails, and expand routes for hikers, runners, and cyclists.
“Minden is the gravel bike capital of North Louisiana with over 40 miles of gravel roads north of town,” Martin said. “This is a huge asset to our community, and we are trying to emphasize that.”
Saturday’s events will include the Gravel Crusher, with 18-, 43-, and 66-mile options, along with 5K and 10K runs and walks.
The gravel routes will travel through scenic backroads and Kisatchie National Forest, with approximately 50 percent gravel and 50 percent paved roads. The 18-mile route features about 1,200 feet of elevation gain, the 43-mile route about 2,900 feet, and the 66-mile route about 4,400 feet.
The 5K and 10K courses will remain on paved roads within the park and feature views of Caney Lake.
Sunday will feature the Fondo Crusher road ride, with 18-, 33-, and 54-mile options, as well as the MTB Crusher on the Sugar Cane Trail.
The Fondo routes will use paved backroads with bayou views, winding piney woods roads, and elevation changes. The mountain bike races will include beginner, Cat 3, Cat 2 and single-speed, and Cat 1 categories on Sugar Cane Trail and other designated mountain bike trails.
E-bikes are permitted in the gravel and road cycling events but are not allowed on the mountain bike trails, according to event organizers.
Helmets are required for all cycling events.
Martin encouraged local residents to participate, regardless of experience level.
“We would love more of our local people to sign up to run the 5K/10K or grab a bicycle and do one of our races,” he said. “You don’t have to ride crazy hard. Just come try it out.”
The event will be based at the Caney Lakes Park day-use area, which offers shade, an amphitheater, picnic tables, AC power, restrooms, a sandy beach, and lake swimming. Showers and a bike wash station will also be available.
Participants will receive a post-race meal and T-shirt. Registration by September 3 at 11:59 PM is required to receive a T-shirt. Registration prices increase August 31 at 5 PM.
The $5 park fee is included with registration, and routes will be marked with aid stations and portable restrooms. Event organizers also encourage participants to download their routes in advance.
Camping and lodging are available for those attending the weekend. Onsite RV campsites with hookups are available through Recreation.gov, while Camp Caney offers bunk-style cabins. Other lodging options are available through MindenStays.com and the Holiday Inn in Minden.
Awards will be presented in multiple categories, including overall, masters, age groups, and designated single-speed categories.
Registration for Saturday’s events ranges from $40 to $75, while Sunday events range from $40 to $70. Participants who register for events on both days receive a discount.
The event is intended for competitive racers as well as those who simply want to enjoy the area’s roads and trails.
All proceeds benefit Bike Minden and the Active Minden Foundation for trail maintenance and expansion at Caney Lakes and in Kisatchie National Forest.
To register or find additional information, visit the Kisatchie Crusher Facebook page or call 318-268-2677.