Chuska Challenge set for Saturday

Copyright © 2008
Gallup Independent
By Diné Bureau

TSAILE — The 14th annual Chuska Challenge bike tour will be in the Chuska Mountains east of Tsaile on Oct. 4. Organizers bill the challenge as the largest mountain bike event on the Navajo Nation, and riders can choose from a variety of mountain bike routes ranging from beginner to advanced.

The challenge is the largest benefit of the year for Youth Empowerment Services for Diné Bikeyah, or YES, which is a 501(c) 3 non-profit organization that provides outdoor adventure programs for Navajo Nation youth since 1994.

According to YES, all routes include some of the finest mountain country and most beautiful fall colors on the Navajo Nation. Planned activities include a live music stage, traditional arts and crafts sale and adventure movies, as well as a taste of Navajo cuisine and culture. A raffle fundraiser is also being held.

The main Chuska route is 35 miles mostly on tribal roads. Scenic diversions will be offered including old mining trails and a few challenging climbs. Along the way, riders will experience the stark solitude of vast meadows, meandering streams and dazzling aspen stands. Shorter loops are available for younger and less experienced riders and advanced routes are available as well. Aid vehicles will be on course. Registration is $60 for adults and $50 for students up to high school. The fee covers break stations along the route, three meals on Saturday including a celebratory barbecue after the bike tour, breakfast on Sunday, entertainment and camping at Diné College.

Information: www.navajoyes.org or (928) 656-3817