
Schweitzer Hill Climb - in memory of Joe Claxston is a road cycling race on September 19, 2026 in Sandpoint, ID, with entry fees from $30 to $40.
From the Organizer
The Schweitzer Hill Climb is a cycling event that includes two routes starting at the bottom of Schweitzer Mountain Road and ending at Schweitzer Village. The road route follows Schweitzer Mountain Road to the village, is 8.65 miles in length, and climbs 2,551 feet. The dirt route diverges from the road at the Lower Basin trailhead, follows Shedwater, Cedar Dreams, Yew Can Do It, and Ursa Major trails to the roundabout, and then Upper Basin trail to Telemark Road near the Schweitzer Mountain Road junction. The route then re-enters Schweitzer Mountain Road to the village. The dirt route is 7.69 miles in length and climbs 2,620 feet.
Participants are allowed to ride human-powered bicycles (or unicycles!) of any type. eBikes are not allowed. The recommended bicycle of choice for the road route is a traditional road bike. A mountain bike or gravel bike are recommended for the dirt route. A traditional road bike is not recommended for the dirt route.
Participants must wear a bicycle helmet; abide by State of Idaho laws as they pertain to bicycles on public roads, including not crossing road center lines, and respect event directional and safety signage. There will be no aid or feed zones on the route, and no unofficial nutritional support will be allowed. Participants shall be self-sufficient in terms of nutrition and mechanical support.
Post-ride nutrition will be available at the finish line, and an award ceremony will take place in the vicinity of the Schweitzer Village Clock Tower or in the Lakeview Lodge, dependent on weather. Food and Beverages are available at various establishments in Schweitzer Village.
SCHEDULE
Events
Weather
It's too far out for a forecast, so here's what weather on this date is normally like in the area. A race day forecast will replace this as race week approaches.
Typical High
71°
Typical Low
42°
Chance of Rain
26%
Based on US Climate Normals data from Sandpoint Exp Stn, 6 mi from the venue.
Host City
Population
1,456
as of 2023
City Elevation
2,130 ft
Nearest Airport
GEG
Spokane International Airport · 67 mi
Time Zone
Pacific Time
From Endurance Grid
A small town race. Lodging near the start could be limited, so book early.
Race Location
Your Next Start Line
Every finish line starts with a single decision. Claim your spot at Schweitzer Hill Climb - in memory of Joe Claxston, put it on the calendar, and turn “someday” into a start date.
50
Days to train
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From Endurance Grid
Endurance Grid is here to help you understand the sport, decide if it’s the right fit, and learn how to prepare. For course distances, logistics, and race-day specifics, always defer to the race organizer’s event page.
Road cycling rewards pacing judgment and consistent time on your bike more than raw power. If you already ride regularly and can comfortably ride a few miles, you have a good starting base for most beginner-friendly events.
Built around sustained effort on a bike, exploring cities on the open road. Beginner distances create a great entry point into endurance sports.
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Schweitzer Hill Climb - in memory of Joe Claxston
Sep 19, 2026