Call to the Cascades

Tucked deep in the misty forests of the Pacific Northwest, Trans Cascadia stands apart from the typical mountain bike race. Here, the focus extends far beyond competition; it’s about community, stewardship, and a shared commitment to the trails themselves.

Founded by Nick Gibson and a small team of passionate riders, the event began as a multi-day enduro through Oregon’s rugged backcountry a celebration of epic riding and good times.

Over the years, it has evolved into something bigger: a movement dedicated to restoring forgotten routes, strengthening local partnerships, and building a sustainable trail culture that endures long after the final stage is over.

Throughout the year, volunteers and builders work quietly behind the scenes clearing overgrown singletrack, reopening lost trails, and negotiating access with public land managers.

Their efforts are guided by a simple philosophy: riding and stewardship go hand in hand. The race might grab the spotlight, but the real story is written in the dirt long before the start line.

In this episode of Trail Tales, Geoff Gulevich Orbea ambassador and pro freerider joins Gibson and the Trans Cascadia crew to explore rediscovered singletrack, sampling only a small part of the trail network revived through years of dedication.

They follow the contours of old logging roads and hand-built lines, now reborn through collective effort. Between climbs and descents, Gibson reflects on legacy, responsibility, and what it means to give back to the land that gives so much in return.

At Orbea, this story resonates deeply. Trail access and preservation are at the heart of the riding experience.

Just as Trans Cascadia has worked to revive Oregon’s backcountry trails, we actively take part in conservation projects across Spain, supporting local builders, funding restoration initiatives, and partnering with trail associations to ensure sustainable access for generations to come.

Whether it’s clearing ancient paths in the Basque mountains or backing volunteer trail days across Spain, we believe that great trails aren’t simply found; they’re built, maintained, and shared.

Looking ahead, Trans Cascadia’s mission continues to grow.

The team is expanding trail restoration projects across Oregon and Washington, working hand in hand with local organizations and public agencies to lay the foundations for a sustainable riding future.

And their long-term vision reaches far beyond North America inspiring a global model of advocacy and collaboration.

As for the race itself? After a short pause, this iconic backcountry enduro will return evolving once more and continuing to push the sport forward, just as its trail advocacy is redefining what sustainable mountain biking can look like.