The mountain bike trails surrounding Boise have seen plenty of action over the years, but mid-May brought something special: nearly 100 riders with physical disabilities converging for the sixth annual CAF-Idaho Mountain Bike Apex Weekend. From May 12-17, the Idaho Outdoor Fieldhouse and Fort Boise Trailhead became the epicenter of adaptive mountain biking in the region.
This wasn’t just another group ride. It was a week where hand cycles shared the trail with recumbents and traditional mountain bikes, where athletes new to the sport rolled alongside seasoned riders, and where the community proved once again that adventure doesn’t have one particular shape or size.
Before anyone hit the trails, participants gathered at the Idaho Outdoor Fieldhouse for something equally exciting: a three-day hands-on adaptive mountain bike build with Project Mjolnir. This open-source initiative brings together riders, engineers, and volunteers to create custom adaptive bikes that meet individual needs.
Over those three days, attendees learned the ins and outs of adaptive bike mechanics while building real equipment that riders would use on the trails. The experience demystified the technology and gave participants a deeper understanding of how these machines work. For Caitlyn, one of the weekend’s riders, the build session had even greater significance. She received a grant for a custom Mjolnir bike, meaning the equipment she helped build would become her gateway to the sport.
Starting May 15, the action shifted to Fort Boise Trailhead. More than 20 world-class coaches from 11 adaptive sport organizations spread across the western United States guided riders through group rides tailored to different skill levels and terrain preferences. Whether someone was testing out adaptive mountain biking for the first time or looking to push their technical skills on more challenging routes, there was a group ready to ride.
Mission 43, Teton Adaptive, TRAILS, Eaglemount, Ridge to Rivers, St. Luke’s Sports Medicine, National Ability Center, Reno Adaptive, Reno Parks & Recreation, Wasatch Adaptive, Access Mammoth, Catalyst, Cycle Learning Center, Dream Adaptive, Higher Ground, and 100% all contributed support throughout the weekend.
The trails themselves offered variety. Some groups focused on flow and rhythm, finding their groove on smoother sections. Others tackled technical features, working through rock gardens and tight switchbacks. Hand cycles, recumbents, and adaptive mountain bikes all found their place on Boise’s diverse terrain.
The energy of the weekend came through in every comment, photo, and post-ride conversation. Jake Frank summed up the experience simply: “Had the best weekend riding with rad people.”
For the Hart family, the weekend reinforced their decision to relocate. “THIS is exactly why we moved to Idaho. What an amazing community!” Amber Hart shared, while Neven Hart added, “Proving adventure belongs to everyone.”
Camille Kramer captured the collective spirit on the trails: “AMAZING to have SO MANY like minded performers on the trail today!” Meanwhile, Amanda Powell reminded everyone that inclusivity extends beyond adaptive equipment: “Doesn’t matter your experience level, bike, or body you have! ALL girls can mtb!”
Parents watched their kids thrive in the supportive environment. “Oliver had the BEST weekend!” Jeanie McElroy shared, while Somchai Lurak reflected on the bigger picture: “It was an amazing reminder of what community, perseverance, and adaptive sports are all about.”
The scope of the gathering didn’t go unnoticed. AbleBodied.org observed, “This might be the largest collection of aMTB handcycles put together ever.” And for the organizations that return year after year, the event has become a highlight. “Our favorite weekend every year,” Reno Adaptive noted, with Teton Adaptive adding, “It was a weekend of learning, community building and, most importantly, FUN!”
Ninety-eight riders participated across the six days. Forty volunteers kept everything running smoothly, from trail support to logistics coordination. Eleven partner organizations brought their collective knowledge and coaching expertise. But the real story isn’t in the statistics alone. It’s in the rider who tried adaptive mountain biking for the first time and discovered a new passion. It’s in the friendships formed between athletes from different states. It’s in the knowledge shared during the bike build sessions and the encouragement offered on challenging trail sections.
The CAF-Idaho Mountain Bike Apex Weekend continues to grow each year, attracting riders from across the region and beyond. The combination of hands-on learning, expert coaching, varied terrain, and genuine community creates an environment where athletes can challenge themselves while feeling supported.
Boise’s trail system and the surrounding outdoor recreation community provide an ideal setting. The collaboration between CAF-Idaho and the 11 partner organizations demonstrates what’s possible when groups with shared values pool their resources and expertise.
As Crank Queens Boise put it: “A beautiful day on the trails!”
Sometimes the simplest observations capture the moment best.
Sign up for stories of resilience, event invites, and ways to make a difference delivered with heart, straight to your inbox.
Thank you for subscribing! Check your inbox regularly for updates
from the CAF team.
Apply for grants for adaptive sports equipment, prosthetics, coaching, and more.
Find adaptive experiences and events for your sport near you.
Find adaptive experiences and events for your sport near you.
Learn about outreach, awareness, and education programs for schools.
Join programs in our key regions.
Adaptive Sports Organizations listed by state and country.
Browse our resources by sport to find the right equipment, trainings, and organizations for you.
Make a 100% tax deductible donation with one click.
Donate every month. Just $10 makes a
difference.
Find another way to give that works for you.
Get in front of an engaged and passionate audience and support our mission while advancing your goals.
Create an impact by sponsoring life-changing events.
Support your corporate giving initiatives with 100% tax deductible donations.
Create an event you’re passionate about in a few easy steps.
Contribute to or take part in an existing event.
Learn how to get your school involved in a great cause and access tools for success.
Explore digital or in-person volunteer opportunities at a CAF event near you.
Join inclusive adaptive sports events and experiences open to everyone.
Discover upcoming events in your area to fundraise, participate, or volunteer.
Explore regional community events, clinics, and donation options in the greater Bay Area.
Explore regional events, grants, and donation options in San Diego, Orange County, and LA County.
Explore community events, clinics, grants, and more in the state of Idaho.
Explore local community events, clinics, and donation options in the Northeast region.
Ride with us. No matter where you are, you’re part of the CAF cycling community.
Find something that moves you. Athlete stories, event coverage, and more.
Explore our resource library to access information on your adaptive sport.
Explore our video library to get digital coaching, equipment guides, and more.
Access the tools you need to best support your fundraising efforts.
