Bike Kingdom Hunt 2026 Arosa

Dates: July 10–12, 2026
Location: Starting at Hörnli Flowtrail, throughout Arosa's trail network
Best for: Mountain bikers, adventure seekers, competitive cyclists, families with older children, groups of friends, trail exploration enthusiasts

Overview: what is Bike Kingdom Hunt?

The Bike Kingdom Hunt is a massive mountain bike scavenger hunt and race that transforms Arosa's extensive trail network into a competitive adventure playground. Participants navigate through Arosa's varied terrain using GPS coordinates, trail clues, and navigation skills to find checkpoints scattered across the mountain bike trail system. Starting at the Hörnli Flowtrail, riders explore everything from flowy singletrack to technical descents, combining the thrill of racing with the challenge of route finding and strategic planning.

Unlike traditional mountain bike races that follow a single marked route, the Hunt requires participants to make tactical decisions about which checkpoints to visit, in what order, and via which trails. It's part orienteering, part endurance challenge, and entirely about exploring Arosa's trails in a new and exciting way. The event attracts everyone from serious competitors aiming for podium positions to recreational riders simply enjoying a guided exploration of the trail network with a competitive edge.

Dates and programme

Typical event rhythm

The Bike Kingdom Hunt runs over three days with different activities and race formats:

• Thursday evening: Registration and race briefing; participants collect race materials and GPS devices; optional course preview
• Friday: Main hunt day with the primary competition; riders set off in waves throughout the day; checkpoints open for designated hours; evening results and social gathering
• Saturday: Additional hunt categories or fun rides; family-friendly shorter courses; awards ceremony; closing celebration

The exact format and timing can vary year to year, but Friday typically features the main competitive hunt with the longest course and most checkpoints. Saturday often includes shorter, more accessible versions for families or less experienced riders.

What to expect

The experience

Expect a blend of competition, exploration, and problem-solving on two wheels. You'll receive a map or GPS device showing checkpoint locations scattered across Arosa's trail network, then strategize which routes to take and which checkpoints to prioritize within the time limit. Some checkpoints may be easy to reach via main trails; others require more technical riding or longer climbs. You'll encounter other participants on the trails, sometimes working together to find tricky locations, other times racing past each other toward different objectives.

The atmosphere is competitive but friendly, with riders of varying abilities all sharing the same basic challenge. You'll discover trails you might not have ridden otherwise, push your navigation and time management skills, and experience Arosa's bike infrastructure in an intensive, focused way. Between riding sessions, expect a festival-like gathering atmosphere with food, drink, results discussions, and trail stories being swapped.

Who it's for

The Bike Kingdom Hunt suits confident mountain bikers comfortable riding varied terrain for several hours. Competitive riders who enjoy orienteering and strategic racing will find it particularly engaging. Recreational mountain bikers with good fitness and basic navigation skills can participate in less intensive categories. Groups of friends often enjoy the Hunt as a shared adventure with post-ride storytelling.

Families with teenagers who are strong cyclists can tackle shorter or family-specific courses offered on Saturday. The event is less suitable for complete beginners or young children, as it requires sustained riding ability, some technical skill, and the capacity to navigate independently. Road cyclists without mountain bike experience will struggle with the terrain.

Practical tips

Bring or rent a mountain bike in good working condition—full suspension is recommended for comfort and control on technical sections. Wear a properly fitted helmet, gloves, and protective gear appropriate for mountain biking. Dress in moisture-wicking layers suitable for active riding in July mountain weather; conditions can range from warm sunshine to cool mountain air and possible afternoon storms.

Carry adequate water and energy food, as you'll be riding for several hours. A basic tool kit and spare tube are essential. A smartphone or GPS device holder for your handlebars makes checkpoint navigation much easier. Study the trail map and checkpoint locations during registration if possible—having a mental picture of the terrain helps with strategic planning. Start conservatively and pace yourself; it's better to finish strong than exhaust yourself chasing distant checkpoints early on.

Best ways to enjoy it

• Choose the right category for your ability. The Hunt typically offers multiple competition levels. Be honest about your fitness and technical skill—there's no shame in selecting a shorter course that lets you finish strong and enjoy the experience.
• Ride with a partner or small group if allowed. Many participants find the Hunt more enjoyable and safer when riding with companions. You can share navigation duties, help each other through technical sections, and celebrate checkpoint discoveries together.
• Prioritize enjoying the trails over maximum points. Unless you're a serious competitor, focus on riding well, exploring new terrain, and having fun rather than stressing about finding every possible checkpoint.
• Arrive a day early to preview key trails. Familiarity with Arosa's trail network gives you an advantage during the Hunt and makes navigation decisions faster and more confident.
• Stay for the full weekend. Friday's main competition is the highlight, but Saturday's activities and social atmosphere are worth experiencing, especially if you're visiting specifically for the event.

How to get there from Hotel Altein Arosa

On foot to event start (recommended)

The Hörnli Flowtrail starting area is reachable on foot from Hotel Altein Arosa by walking to the base station of the relevant lift system. The walk takes approximately 10–15 minutes. Arrive early on race morning to allow time for final registration checks, equipment preparation, and any last-minute briefings. Event signage will guide you to the exact start location.

By bike to event start

Many participants ride to the start area as a warm-up. From Hotel Altein Arosa, cycle toward the Hörnli area following trail signage. This allows you to check your bike setup and get your legs moving before the Hunt begins. Secure storage for any belongings you don't want to carry during the race is typically provided at the start area.

Local transport

Local buses serve the general area around the Hörnli trails during summer, though specific event day schedules may vary. Our reception can advise on current transport options. For an event of this nature where you're riding your bike extensively, cycling or walking to the start makes most practical sense.

Make it a weekend: stay at Hotel Altein Arosa

The Bike Kingdom Hunt is designed as a multi-day event, making Hotel Altein Arosa an ideal base for the full experience. Store your bike securely at the hotel, fuel up with breakfast before racing, and return to comfortable accommodation after hours on the trails. The hotel's location means you can easily move between event activities, explore additional Arosa trails during downtime, and recover properly between riding days. After pushing your limits on Friday's hunt, you'll appreciate a relaxing evening and good night's sleep before Saturday's concluding activities and awards.

Frequently asked questions

When is the Bike Kingdom Hunt in 2026?
July 10–12, 2026. The event opens Thursday evening with registration and briefings, features the main hunt competition on Friday, and continues Saturday with additional courses and the awards ceremony.

Is it suitable for families?
The main competitive hunt on Friday is demanding and suited to experienced mountain bikers. However, Saturday often features family-friendly courses with shorter distances, easier checkpoints, and less technical terrain. Families with teenagers who are confident mountain bikers can participate together in appropriate categories. Young children and cycling beginners won't find suitable options in the main competition but may enjoy Saturday's more accessible offerings.

What should I wear and bring?
Mountain bike helmet, gloves, and appropriate protective gear. Moisture-wicking cycling clothing in layers, as July weather varies and you'll be working hard. Sturdy mountain bike shoes. A hydration pack or water bottles, energy food, basic tools, spare tube, and first aid supplies. Sunglasses and sun protection. Your smartphone or GPS device for navigation if provided. Some participants also bring a lightweight rain jacket in case of mountain weather changes.

Do I need to plan ahead and register?
Yes, absolutely. The Bike Kingdom Hunt requires advance registration through the event's official channels. Participant numbers are often limited, and the event can sell out, especially for popular categories. Register as soon as registration opens to secure your spot. You'll receive important information about race format, checkpoint systems, and equipment requirements after registering. Last-minute registration is rarely possible.

Are there different distances or difficulty levels?
Yes, the Hunt typically offers multiple categories based on distance, checkpoint numbers, and technical difficulty. Options range from shorter recreational hunts to full-day competitive challenges covering extensive terrain and numerous checkpoints. Check the official event information for 2026-specific categories and their requirements. Choose based on your honest assessment of your fitness, technical ability, and mountain bike experience.

Do I need my own bike or can I rent?
You can do either. If you have your own mountain bike and can transport it to Arosa, that's ideal as you'll be familiar with the bike's handling. If you need to rent, Arosa has bike rental services offering quality mountain bikes including full-suspension models suitable for the Hunt. Book rental bikes well in advance for the event weekend, as availability can be limited. Ensure any rental bike is properly fitted and that you're comfortable with it before the competition starts.

Navigate, ride, explore

The Bike Kingdom Hunt offers a distinctive way to experience Arosa's mountain bike trails—challenging yourself competitively while discovering terrain you might otherwise miss. Whether you're chasing podium positions or simply enjoying an adventure on two wheels, the Hunt combines sport, strategy, and alpine scenery in an event that showcases why Arosa calls itself a Bike Kingdom. Book your stay at Hotel Altein Arosa for the Hunt weekend and enjoy the perfect base for this mountain bike adventure, with comfortable rooms, convenient location, and everything you need to make the most of three days riding Arosa's incredible trails.

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