In a remarkable debut, Gwen Cameron clinched victory in the 2026 Pinyons and Pines bikepacking race, becoming the fastest woman to conquer the 413-mile course in Arizona. She completed the challenging route, which included 40,000 feet of elevation gain, in just 3 days, 13 hours, and 45 minutes. (bikepacking.com)
The 2026 edition of Pinyons and Pines was notably demanding, featuring a mix of singletrack, doubletrack, and dirt roads, with over 39,000 feet of climbing. (bikepacking.com) The course took riders through diverse terrains, from scorching desert climbs to dense ponderosa forests, testing both physical endurance and mental fortitude. (bikepacking.com)
Cameron’s performance was particularly impressive given the competitive field. She faced stiff competition from Sarah Didier, Katie Smyth, and Sarah Higgins. The race remained tight until the third night, when Cameron took the lead. Despite a brief rest period, Didier managed to pass her, having skipped sleep and made a significant push into the Camp Verde resupply. However, Cameron regained the lead by 12:30 p.m. on day four, with approximately 58 miles remaining. She solidified her position on the final ascent up Mormon Mountain, securing the win. (bikepacking.com)
Sarah Didier finished second, arriving roughly an hour later with a time of 3 days, 14 hours, and 29 minutes. Katie Smyth and Sarah Higgins shared third place, crossing the finish line together at 3 days, 16 hours, and 42 minutes. (bikepacking.com)
Cameron’s victory not only highlights her exceptional endurance and determination but also marks a significant milestone in her bikepacking career. Her performance in the 2026 Pinyons and Pines race sets a new benchmark for female athletes in the sport, inspiring many to push the boundaries of what is possible in bikepacking events.