2026 Yankee Fork Rendezvous Wraps Up

Cycle News Staff | August 11, 2026

The 2026 Harden Offroad Yankee Fork Rendezvous, presented by Red Line Oil, recently wrapped up, and the second annual gathering in Challis, Idaho, delivered what it promised: incredible riding, legendary personalities, unforgettable scenery and, most importantly, a whole lot of camaraderie.

Harden Offroad Yankee Fork Rendezvous in Idaho.
There was a large turnout of riders for the second running of the Harden Offroad Yankee Fork Rendezvous in Idaho.

Hosted by off-road icons Scot Harden and Rodney Smith, the three-day, non-competitive trail ride once again brought together motorcycle enthusiasts from across the USA for a true celebration of the off-road lifestyle. Riders traveled from all corners of the country to experience the spectacular Yankee Fork region and share the trails with fellow enthusiasts who share the same passion for motorcycles, adventure and the great outdoors.

At the heart of the Rendezvous was the riding. The carefully selected routes showcased some of central Idaho’s most spectacular terrain, combining flowing single-track, challenging two-track, mountain roads and breathtaking high-country scenery. Over three days, participants explored historic mining country, alpine terrain and remote backcountry while experiencing the unique character of the Yankee Fork region. The event was designed to challenge riders without becoming a hard enduro, giving everyone—from experienced trail riders to those simply looking for an adventure—a chance to enjoy the experience. A heavy dose of rain at the end of the first day turned the trails into an epic, dust-free, mongo-traction-like experience.

Rodney Smith at 2026 Yankee Fork Rendezvous
Rodney Smith, who helped lay out the route, took part.

But what makes the Yankee Fork Rendezvous special is what happens when the motorcycles are parked. This year’s special guest was newly inducted AMA Hall of Fame member Damon “The Beast from the East” Bradshaw. At the conclusion of the Ultimate Bench racing session with Bradshaw, fellow AMA Hall of Famers Harden, Smith, Chuck Sun and Kevin Schwantz held a special ceremony to welcome him into the club.

The evenings were every bit as memorable as the days on the trail. Riders gathered for receptions, seminars, meals, awards and plenty of bench racing, creating an atmosphere where friendships were formed and old ones renewed. It was a modern-day interpretation of the original Rocky Mountain “Rendezvous”—a place where adventure seekers could come together, swap stories and celebrate a shared passion.

Clayton Gertsner at 2026 Yankee Fork Rendezvous
Clayton Gertsner made it to the top of Ramshorn Mountain.

For Harden and Smith, the event represents much more than another motorcycle ride. It is about creating experiences that riders will remember long after they have loaded their motorcycles and headed home.

“The Yankee Fork Rendezvous is about much more than motorcycles,” said Harden. “It’s about friendships, shared experiences, and creating memories that last a lifetime.”

VIDEO | 2026 Harden Offroad Yankee Fork Rendezvous

 

2026 Yankee Fork Rendezvous Sun, Smith, Bradshaw, Harden, Schwantz
(L-R) Chuck Sun, Smith, Damon Bradshaw, Harden and Kevin Schwantz participated in this year’s multi-day ride.

The 2026 Harden Offroad Yankee Fork Rendezvous may be in the books, but the memories—and the anticipation for the next adventure—are already building. For more information on next year’s Yankee Fork Rendezvous and for Harden Offroad events in general, visit www.harden-offroad.com. CN