The Space Race Rumpus
June 7-9 2024 : Family Mountain and Road Cycling Festival : Green Bank, WV
Come join us for the 10th Annual Space Race Rumpus!
June 7-9th 2024
Biking, Camping, Clinics, Games, Music, Classes, Stargazing - all wrapped into one Amazing weekend! Registration will open in January 2024! All registrations are fully refundable up to a week before the event.
What is the Rumpus
all about?
It's a festival. It's a race. It's group rides. It's a clinic. It's a fundraiser. It's a tradition.
The Space Race Rumpus takes place every June in Pocahontas County, WV, which has some of the most scenic roads and trails in the mid-Atlantic. The rides and races explore both the Green Bank Observatory's unique property and the surrounding area.
Come participate in guided road rides ranging from 20 - 50+ miles in length and guided mountain bike rides which range from absolute beginner through expert. Compete in low-key, beginner-friendly road and mountain bike races near radio telescopes! There will be rides and races for all ages and levels, as well as cycling clinics and vendors. We’ve improved our trail system and added some awesome new beginner courses this year.
Each night will be a social event with local brews, group meals, tours of the night sky, bonfires, refreshments, live music and even a down home square dance. Come for the main event on Saturday. Come to camp. Come to try a race for the first time. Come for the challenge. Come for the kids' camp. Come for the Ladies' Clinic. Come for the Toddler Trek. Come to support local charities. Come to reconnect with family. Come because we'd miss you. Just leave your cell phone at home and come.
Adult registration includes all events, clinics, races, camping, dinner, and the concert each night, plus the 2023 rumpus t-shirt!
Rumpus Events
Check out the links below to learn more about Rumpus Rides, Clinics, Kids' Activities, Music, Meals, Camping, and more!
With over 12 miles of trails on site, guided trail rides are offered every day, and maps are available for anyone who wants to hit the trails on their own!
The Short Track is an off-road race on 1/2 mile loop. Men's, Women's, Youth, and Kid's categories are offered. Number of laps depend on category. This is the perfect event for first-time racers and for those competitive sort!
Fun Road Race with Men's, Women', Youth and Kid's categories by age groups. Race right is on road only.
For kids on peddle bikes, up to age 10. This course is fast-paced and fun! Racers zoom around the Jansky Lab on this hybrid road/sidewalk/grass course. Spectator-friendly, training wheels allowed and tons of fun!
Ages 4 & under only. Race around the 1st Ever Radio Telescope and right through the Science Center! Balance bikes and training wheels ONLY! Easily the most fun to watch, this race always draws a crowd.
Guided road rides are offered with beginner, intermediate and advanced routes and bail-out points. Get the local scoop on Pocahontas County's beautiful scenic country roads!
Skills clinic and site ride hosted by Kristy Lanier of the Dirtbean, LIV Ambassador Mandi Riddle and Joey Riddle of Joey's Bike Shop.
FREE Childcare! Ages 3+, Saturday from 1-4pm. Parents, enjoy the opportunity to join a group road or mountain bike ride!
Check out some cool gear, get a repair, shop local artisan finds or check out other outdoor venues at our vendor tents!
In addition to live music, each night we feature social bonfires and night sky tours (weather permitting).
Race to win one of these trophies designed and made at the observatory! Our "Rumpus Trophy" are employee designed and machined on site.
Registration includes a free camp site, with access to restrooms and showers.
Each evening, we feature local beers from tap. Nice way to enjoy the sunset!
During concerts, races and more, we keep the kids entertained with sack races, hula hoops, bubbles and more!