The Ultimate Mountain Bike Party Turns 20: Celebrate the Biggest Crankworx Whistler Yet
From its roots in 2004 to becoming the annual homecoming of the mountain bike community, Crankworx Whistler has evolved into a global gathering like no other. This August 8–17, 2025, the festival marks its 20th edition, and the world’s best riders, fans, industry leaders, and mountain bike culture-makers will return to Whistler for what promises to be the biggest celebration yet. It’s more than a festival – it’s a homecoming. The birthplace of Crankworx continues to be the beating heart of the sport, where legends return, careers are launched, and the vibe is simply unmatched.
New Schedule Additions
This special edition brings exciting new additions to the schedule. One of the highlights is the Bosch eMTB Challenge, designed to offer something for everyone. Amateur riders can enjoy riding some of Whistler’s finest trails together in a relaxed setting with their friends, while competitive athletes can go full gas, racing for the win. The Bosch eMTB Challenge adds a unique blend of accessibility and intensity that reflects the festival’s inclusive spirit.
Another fresh addition is the Outdoor Research Trick Showdown, set to take over the Boneyard with high-flying action and après energy. Free to attend and featuring food and beverage options on site, it’s the perfect cap to a jam-packed day or the kick-off to an epic Crankworx weekend. With the sun setting over Whistler Mountain Bike Park and some of the most stylish riders in the world throwing down, this event is sure to become an instant fan favourite. Don’t miss it live on site or on Red Bull TV, Friday, August 15.
Downhill is On!
Of course, Crankworx wouldn’t be Crankworx without Downhill racing, and this year’s line-up is nothing short of legendary. The OG CDN OPN DH is back, reigniting passion for a course that holds a special place in Crankworx history and kicking off the 10-day festival. The returning Garbanzo DH will once again push riders to their limits with its brutal 7km of descent. Meanwhile, Air DH brings the buzz to A-Line, widely regarded as the most famous trail on the planet, and finally, the RockShox Canadian Open DH, taking place on the steep and technical 1199 trail, remaining a fan and athlete favourite.
The Ultimate Experience for All Riders
This year also marks the biggest-ever adaptive mountain bike (aMTB) program at Crankworx Whistler, with expanded categories, greater visibility, and a deeper integration into the overall schedule. The aMTB events highlight not just performance and progression, but a powerful commitment to access and inclusion in the sport.
Beyond the pro races, Crankworx Whistler once again features a strong Kidsworx lineup, giving the next generation of riders a chance to shine. From engaging clinics and exciting races to the ever-popular scavenger hunt, Kidsworx is all about fun, progression, and community. It’s a chance for young shredders to learn from the best, challenge themselves, and experience the energy of Crankworx up close – making it a perfect summer destination for the whole family.
This year’s festival will also feature the return of Aspire, a powerful forum designed to support and elevate underrepresented communities and organizations within the mountain bike industry. Taking place on Saturday, August 9 at the Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre, Aspire brings together thought leaders, athletes, advocates, and industry stakeholders for an afternoon of conversation, collaboration, and connection. More information as well as limited tickets are available online, and all are welcome to join this important conversation.
Confirmed Athletes
As always, the athlete roster at Crankworx Whistler is stacked. Among those confirmed are Sian and Kye A’Hern, DH phenoms with podium pedigree; Jenna Hastings, who turned her first Crankworx Whistler appearance last year into a gold medal story on the 1199 track; Jordy Scott and Martha Gill, the reigning Queen of Crankworx, both known for their versatility and consistency across disciplines; and Jakob Jewett, now undefeated on one of the gnarliest tracks in mountain biking. Ryan Gilchrist, the current King of Crankworx, brings both speed and determination to every event. Legends like Richie Rude, Bas van Steenbergen, Mark Wallace, and Dakotah Norton are also set to drop in, alongside rising stars like Erice Van Leuven and familiar names like Caroline Buchanan, Bernard Kerr, and – former Kidsworx star and now one of the world’s best – Jackson Goldstone. Adding to the legacy of the moment, Crankworx icons including Jill Kintner, Anneke Beerten, Aaron Gwin, Darren Berrecloth, Tomas Lemoine, Tyler McCaul, Kyle Strait and Cam Zink are returning to mark the occasion. For a full list of confirmed athletes, check out the preliminary start lists online.
Crankworx Whistler is the biggest mountain bike party of the summer. It’s racing, freeride, community, party, art, culture, and stoke – all wrapped into a 10-day experience like no other. Admission is free all week long, but for those looking to elevate their experience, VIP tickets for the RockShox Canadian Open DH (August 15) and Red Bull Joyride (August 16) are available online – though some categories are already sold out.
Thinking of spending the (long) weekend in Whistler, looking for the schedule, or just curious to learn more about Crankworx Whistler – check it out online at crankworx.com or follow @crankworx.