Course descriptions for our events    Note: this is assuming dry weather conditions.  Inclement weather or fire danger will dictate probably running only B or C courses, so as not to damage trails.  Letter designations are in key with typical AMA enduro class descriptions.

AA: VERY DIFFICULT [extremely advanced] -  sophisticated and complex trails that are only passable by a real dirt bike. Extreme uphills/downhills and trials-like sections, which require lower gearing.  Aggressive knobbies required.

A: DIFFICULT [advanced] - plenty of challenging trail that requires advanced trail techniques.  Aggressive knobbies highly suggested.

B: MODERATE [normal] - moderate or mild trail skills required.  Larger single-cylinder or two-up bikes should easily traverse these  sections.  Generally passable by an advanced Jeep/driver combo.  Regular dualsport tires are acceptable.

C: EASY [very easy] - practically no trail.  Mostly gravel road. Passable by large 2-cylinder bikes, two-up, sidecars or most any 4-wheel drive.  Regular dualsport tires are acceptable.

Here's a helpful check-off list of things to do before showing up for this event: Say to yourself, "Self, remember that the staging area is at the Trask County Park. Bring your own  5-GAL gas can with gas to store in your truck! There are NO GAS STATIONS ON THIS YEAR'S ROUTES (except North loop for only B/C riders)! Mount a rollchart holder on your handlebars. Post your rider number on the front of your bike. Confirm number by clicking on "List Of Entries Thus Far" at top of this page. If you didn't pre-enter, your number will be assigned at event. Bring raingear (This is Oregon, so you never know!). Make sure you have your state's current OHV sticker installed. Pack a good assortment of tools in your fanny pack for unforeseen, trail repairs. Also put a few dollars in your fanny pack for lunch at the Trask Store, if you want something else.. Be sure to carry items to repair a flat tire. The staging area has plenty of grass, water and bathrooms - that's it.  Pack camping gear/food accordingly, if overnighting. Be sure your spark arrestor/muffler is QUIET! Loud bikes - stay home! Do that maintenance on your bike that you keep putting off: check nuts/bolts, oil, air filter, tires, chain...

• 11/4/07: We have a date for the '08 Rat Dog: October 11! It will be in Washougal, WA area, so plan to attend!

• 10/16/07: We have officially canceled this year's Rat Dog due to various reasons such as staging-area concerns, permit costs, lack of pre-entries to justify costs, etc. We have a very cool route set up, so that work is all finished for next year, but the other items still need to be addressed. Apologies to those of you who pre-entered. We will either credit your entry or refund your money. Contact us if you have any questions. Sorry for any inconveniences.

• 9/26/07: We have the route established, but we haven't nailed the staging area quite yet. Hope to have it solidified after this weekend!

• 8/7/07: The 2007 Rat Dog is officially rescheduled to October 27! Yes, we know that it conflicts with the 24-Hour GP, but open slots are sparse. Plans are to have it in the Washougal, WA area, so stay tuned!

• 7/23/07: Change of plans, folks - we're rescheduling this year's Rat Dog to either late September or October, so stay tuned for updates. Oh, we're probably going to change the location also.

• 11/14/06: We've got a 2007 date set for August 25, plus planning on a new location - stay tuned!