American River Classic

Trail coming into Cool

American River

photo credit: W. Gore 2016

Early years

Trail coming into Cool

1/80

April 19'th, 2025

Ride the beautiful rolling hills of the Olmstead Loop and western states trail

• Head Veterinarian-

Kelly Torissi, D.V.M.

The American River Classic offers some distinct trails, because this ride covers portions of the "Tevis Cup" trail. This is the only sanctioned endurance ride that follows the last section of Tevis in the day time. Come experience what most riders only see in the dark, in the day light! The trail follows scenic wild flower single track, fireroads, creeks, Oaks, streams and plenty of climbs. Come ride the Infamous Olmstead Loop, western states trail and cross NO HANDS BRIDGE!

Remember to check our Blog for any ride updates.

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Welcome (50th anniversary)

We would like to welcome you to the 50th, annual American River Classic Endurance Ride, the oldest A.E.R.C. sanctioned 50 mile endurance ride in the world. Due to circumstances beyond our control, for the safety of horse and rider, we elected to move the ride start to Cool, CA. This will be our 3rd year starting and finishing in Cool, and due to this ride's 50th anniversary, we are only doing the 50 mile ride. The start will be in cool and wind down into Knickerbocker creek and up and down into Old Coffer Dam. Next riders will work their way down to No Hands Bridge into Auburn for a 60 minute hold. Then riders will ride back up to Cool and ride through some old Orchards and back into Cool Staging area. There you'll have another 60 minute hold. That will complete your first loop. The second loop, riders will ride out towards the Ridge trail way out towards the farthest point above the American River. If we have a lot of rain, we'll bypass that section. Then you'll ride through some more orchards and tie back into the loop you started on and back into finish. We really wanted to incorporate the beauty of the canyons and the wildflowers should be in full swing. This ride does provide plenty of hills and scenic views by and above the American River. If you want to experience the last section of the Tevis cup in the day-light and ride 50 miles then this is your ride. This year riders will be provided a meal ticket for a Friday dinner meal hosted by American River Pizza and Grill that will be located next to Cool Staging Area. Also this restaurant along with a few others will be available for anyone and everyone Saturday.

We look forward to seeing you all there, Ride Management.