Pipestone Race set for September 16, 17

Engines will roar at the Bureau of Land Management’s Pipestone recreation area Sept. 16-17 during a competitive motorcycle race.

Earlier this year, the BLM Butte Field Office issued a 10-year Special Recreation Permit to 5th Gear Productions, based in Three Forks, to conduct the annual race at the Pipestone Off-Highway Vehicle Recreation Area, about 13 miles east of Butte.

Each day, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., riders will participate in timed races with different classes and a staggered start pattern. The maximum number of race participants has been set at 350. Saturday race classes will consist of youth and novice riders. Sunday race classes will include novice, intermediate and advanced riders. A registration tent will be erected at the 4-Corners staging area, along with a minimal amount of vending.

The race will wind its way through 15-20 miles of designated ATV and motorcycle routes in the BLM-managed portions of the Pipestone OHV Area. During race periods, 5th Gear Productions has been issued exclusive use of these routes (primarily adjacent to the 4-Corners staging area).

“Closing these trails to other users during race periods helps eliminate dangerous encounters between racers and members of the general public,” said Brad Colin, Outdoor Recreation Planner for the Butte Field Office.

Maps of the closure area will be posted at major Pipestone OHV Area access points now through the end of the race period.

Spectators who wish to observe the race will be required to remain in designated areas.

Members of the general public will still have access to the lower Pipestone trailhead, located just off I-90 at Exit #241. Routes in the eastern portion of the area (including the route to Ringing Rocks) that are not associated with the event will remain open to the general public. Race routes will be marked and/or staffed. Primitive camping before, during and after the event will also be allowed.

Major road crossings will be heavily staffed. In extreme cases, riders may be required to walk their machines across road crossings.

The race course will be marked on September 15 with flagging, caution tape, arrows, and sponsor banners. All race-associated markings will be removed on September 18.

An ambulance and corresponding emergency medical personnel will be required to remain on-site at all times during race periods.

Racing will be stopped immediately if the on-site ambulance is required to leave the location and will not resume until a replacement ambulance arrives, said Colin.

For more information about the permit for the race, call Brad Colin at (406) 533-7638.