The Call of the Red Cliffs
Every autumn, as the red cliffs of Virgin, Utah, come alive with the cheers of enthusiastic crowds and the rumble of mountain bikes, it feels as if time itself stands still. Red Bull Rampage is not just a competition—it’s an epic stage where human courage, creativity, and the raw power of nature converge.
The dream of attending Rampage had always been buried deep in my subconscious. It was like a distant echo, a faint call that would occasionally remind me of its presence. I had never seriously planned this trip—until one summer day, everything changed. I stumbled upon a video from a previous Red Bull Rampage, and as I watched riders conquer those impossible lines, I realized I had to see it with my own eyes.
Watching the world’s best riders tackle death-defying lines through a screen is one thing. But being there, in the very heart of the action—breathing in the desert dust, feeling the roar of the crowd, and capturing these moments with my camera—is something entirely different. For me, this wasn’t just a test of my photography skills; it was a challenge to my endurance and my ability to follow a dream to its fullest.
From that moment, everything changed. I dove headfirst into gathering information as if embarking on a new adventure. How much time would the trip take? Where would I stay? What should I bring—cameras, lenses, filters, food, water? Every detail had to be meticulously planned. This wasn’t a simple walk through city streets but a journey into the heart of the desert.
I needed to consider what to wear and which shoes could handle Utah’s unpredictable environment. Parking logistics and the trek to the event site were also key parts of this puzzle. Every detail required attention; every step brought me closer to the dream. It was a challenge, but with each piece falling into place, I felt the dream becoming more real.
A Historic Milestone
This year marked a truly historic milestone for Red Bull Rampage. For the first time, women competed for the podium, expanding the horizons of this already iconic event. It was also the first time the competition stretched across two thrilling days, adding depth and drama to the experience. But the real magic of Rampage begins long before the official start. The riders themselves carve out breathtaking lines, transforming Virgin’s rugged cliffs into arenas for daring experiments and gravity-defying stunts.
For me, the moment of truth was fast approaching. The countdown began on August 30th at 10:00 AM Mountain Time, the exact moment tickets went live. It wasn’t just a matter of clicking a button—it felt like a high-stakes test of speed, luck, and perseverance. Thousands of fans just like me crowded the website, each vying for a coveted spot at the event. Finally, securing those tickets was my first small victory on the path to realizing my dream.
Soon after, I found myself on calls with friends who, as it turned out, were also planning to attend this incredible event. Each of us shared our emotions: some had already snagged their golden tickets, while others were still bravely battling the virtual queue, hoping to claim their place in this one-of-a-kind spectacle.
In the end, we all emerged victorious, like marathon finishers, clutching our tickets with joy and excitement. Conversations quickly turned to planning the upcoming trip: what to pack, where to stay, and how to make the most of this unique experience. This wasn’t just a journey—it was a step into a dream that was finally becoming a reality.
Tickets: The Gateway to Adventure
Getting tickets to Red Bull Rampage isn’t just about gaining access to an event—it’s about choosing your unique way to participate. This year, the organizers offered several options to cater to different preferences, making it easy to tailor the experience:
Single-Day Tickets
Attendees could opt for a ticket to either the women’s competition on October 10th or the men’s competition on October 12th. This was a perfect choice for those who wanted to focus on a specific part of the show.
Bundle 2-Day Pass
For fans who didn’t want to miss a second of the action, the two-day pass granted access to both competition days, offering the full Rampage experience. It was the ideal pick for those eager to soak in every adrenaline-filled moment.
Tickets by Mode of Access:
Hike + Bike Pass: For the most active attendees, this pass required a 3-mile journey on foot or by bike. Once at the site, bikes could be safely stored in designated areas under supervision.
Shuttle Pass: Perfect for those looking for a more convenient ride, this pass included a shuttle service that transported spectators from the parking lot to a drop-off point near the event venue.
VIP Pass
For the ultimate enthusiasts, the VIP package delivered a premium experience, including access to both competition days from exclusive seating areas, shuttle transport, and a behind-the-scenes tour. This tour offered a unique glimpse into the heart of the action on October 11th, a non-competition day reserved for rest and preparation.
Preparing for the Desert
Regardless of the ticket type chosen, one detail remained the same: the final stretch of the journey, about half a mile, had to be completed on foot. This added an extra sense of adventure and set the mood as spectators approached the heart of the action.
These tickets not only determined how you reached the Rampage slopes but also defined the tone of your overall experience. Each option provided its own unique perspective on this epic event, allowing every spectator to tailor their journey to what suited them best.
As October approached, life carried on as usual, but deep down, I found myself counting down the days. Over the past months, I’d had plenty of time to plan and prepare. Truthfully, I booked my hotel long before I even secured a ticket, confident that my determination would see me through.
Packing for Rampage required meticulous attention to detail. I planned to bring two cameras, both of my telephoto lenses and a mid-range lens for “close combat.” ;) Filters, memory cards, spare batteries—everything was carefully thought out. I even packed rain protection, although I secretly hoped it would remain untouched in my backpack.
Water was a top priority. I prepared a 3-liter hydration reservoir that fits snugly in my pack. A big thanks to the event organizers for emphasizing that this wasn’t a casual stroll among palm trees—it was a serious challenge in Utah’s rugged desert environment.
The list didn’t end there. Clothing, sturdy shoes, a sun hat, sunscreen, and light snacks for energy were all essentials. Fortunately, it was also announced that there would be water refill stations on-site, provided you had a container to refill. Additionally, food (available for purchase) and portable restrooms were accessible, offering a reassuring level of basic comfort amidst the wilderness.
With each passing day, the reality of the adventure grew closer. This wasn’t just another trip or a regular photography session—it was shaping up to be an experience like no other.
The Journey Begins
The long-awaited moment had finally arrived—it was time to embark on the journey to Red Bull Rampage. I packed everything I needed: cameras, lenses, photography equipment, water, and of course, my mountain bike. My friends and I had planned to explore some of the local trails on October 11th, the non-competition day. After all, how could we come to Utah and not ride its legendary trails?
The drive from the Bay Area to Hurricane, Utah, took about 11 hours. Despite the long journey, I enjoyed every moment, with good music and breathtaking scenery keeping me company. Hurricane welcomed me with the soft hues of evening twilight as I checked into my hotel, eager to get some rest before the busy day ahead.
An early wake-up call, a quick breakfast, and a short drive to the event parking area took about 20 minutes. Even in the pre-dawn darkness, the roads were clearly marked, and helpful staff directed traffic efficiently. I arrived just before 7 a.m., and the parking lot was already filling up fast.
The first task was to pick up my wristband, which doubled as my event pass for the next two days. As part of the check-in process, I had to sign a waiver, conveniently completed on my phone. Nearby, Red Bull merchandise booths were already open, offering exclusive souvenirs to commemorate the event.
Each spectator’s journey to the slopes depended on the ticket type they had purchased in advance. For those with a Hike + Bike Pass, the adventure included a 3-mile journey on foot or by bike, with secure bike storage provided upon arrival. Shuttle Pass holders, like myself, enjoyed a ride closer to the action in either enclosed vans (offering a quieter, dust-free option) or open-air vehicles (where you could truly feel the rugged terrain of Utah). Regardless of the chosen mode of transport, the final half-mile had to be completed on foot—a shared experience for everyone entering the Rampage grounds.
The shuttle ride felt like a mini-adventure: climbs, descents, bumps, and an air filled with anticipation. There was an unshakable sense that something extraordinary awaited us just ahead.
Immersed in the Magic of Rampage
Stepping off the shuttle and beginning the short walk to the venue immediately immersed us in the rugged beauty of the landscape. As the first rays of dawn spilled over the horizon, the soft light revealed the majestic peaks of Zion National Park, not far in the distance. At the same time, the unmistakable atmosphere of Rampage was already in the air.
Massive screens played high-energy Red Bull clips, pulsing with adrenaline and excitement, perfectly paired with the sounds of extreme sports echoing across the venue. Every detail had been meticulously planned: clear signs, rope barriers keeping spectators out of restricted zones, and staff efficiently guiding the steady flow of attendees.
In the midst of the bustling crowd, it wasn’t uncommon to bump into legends of the mountain biking world. A quick chat, an autograph, or even a photo together—it was all part of the Rampage experience. This was Rampage, baby! The pinnacle of mountain biking, where sport and adrenaline come together to create a show unlike any other.
Finding the perfect vantage point was crucial in a place like this. On the women’s competition day, I was luckier than I could have hoped. I secured a prime spot that became my base for the entire day. Just ahead of me were riders who, unfortunately, couldn’t compete due to injuries, joined by their friends. The women’s course, being slightly narrower in width, had a more intimate feel, making it ideal for capturing every moment through my lenses.
The Women’s Competition: A Close Connection
From the early morning hours, a palpable sense of anticipation filled the air. The crisp, cool weather made my jacket an essential layer, but it wasn’t long before the sun climbed higher and the temperature began to soar. Then came the sudden gusts of strong wind, causing a ripple of unease through the crowd—it could potentially jeopardize the competition we had all gathered to witness. Fortunately, as the land warmed up, the winds eased, and the atmosphere stabilized. A collective sigh of relief swept through, and it was finally time to take in the full magic of the event.
The riders began to warm up, and the energy among the crowd began to build. Their cautious, deliberate movements during practice runs were understandable, but even so, the audience erupted in cheers and gasps at every trick or stylish line. The excitement was electric.
And then, the moment everyone had been waiting for: the helicopter soared into the sky. (Insider tip: until you see the helicopter, nothing’s truly begun.) The tires of the world’s best mountain bikes hissed against the dirt as the first rider dropped in, and in an instant, the course came alive. To say it was impressive would be an understatement—it was phenomenal, breathtaking, and left me utterly speechless.
The day was packed with action. From 7 a.m. to 5 p.m., I was on my feet, carrying two cameras outfitted with heavy telephoto lenses and a backpack that seemed to grow lighter as the hours passed, thanks to the water slowly draining from the hydration reservoir.
One of the highlights of the day wasn’t just the competition but the people around me. I struck up conversations with Terry and Alan (names changed), who were my neighbors for the day. Between runs, we shared stories, laughs, and observations, making the downtime fly by. A big shoutout to them—it’s people like them who make the experience even more memorable!
And one last note: be prepared to get covered in a fine layer of the local dust—there’s no escaping it. My gear, clothes, and backpack were all coated by the end of the day. That evening, I had a long session of cleaning everything to get it back into working order.
A Day Between Competitions: Grafton Mesa
The day between competitions turned out to be calmer but still full of its own kind of excitement. Without a VIP pass for backstage tours, I decided to dedicate this day to riding with friends on some local trails. Our choice landed on Grafton Mesa—a place I’d been eager to explore for a long time.
We started a little later than planned. By then, the sun was already high in the sky, and the heat was making its presence known. On top of that, the fatigue from the previous day—packed with adrenaline, heat, and hours on my feet—was catching up to me. I didn’t have much energy left for climbing uphill, and my focus wasn’t sharp enough to fully enjoy the downhill sections.
Still, even in that state, the ride was absolutely amazing. Grafton Mesa is a stunning location with breathtaking views and trails that are as thrilling as they are beautiful. Despite the exhaustion, I savored every moment. It was a perfect way to decompress and recharge before the next day’s high-stakes action.
In the future, I plan to return here with fresh legs and a full tank of energy to truly let loose on these trails. But even now, looking back, this ride stands out as another highlight of the trip—an experience I’ll cherish for years to come.
The Men’s Final: Rising Stakes
On the second day of the competition, my friends and I joined. We planned to meet at the "stands"—if you can call the rugged slopes of Red Bull Rampage stands—where all the action was set to unfold. But let’s rewind a little.
We arrived at the parking lot later than I had on the first day, and it was already nearly full! The men’s final had drawn a significantly larger crowd compared to the women’s event. If you’re planning to attend Rampage, especially the men’s final, take note: arrive early to secure a good spot.
Finding a viewing location proved more challenging this time around. The men’s course spanned a much larger area, with wider and more scattered lines. Still, we managed to find a relatively decent spot. Admittedly, my vantage point for the women’s event was better, but it didn’t dampen the excitement! The electric atmosphere around us quickly swept away any doubts or fatigue.
Clear blue skies, awe-inspiring scenery, and a growing crowd buzzing with excitement—it was a feast for the senses. Music filled the air, occasionally interspersed with unmistakable sound bites from Red Bull video clips playing on massive screens. Even when you couldn’t see the action, the sound of tires carving through the rugged terrain sent shivers down your spine.
The riders began their warm-ups. It was clear they weren’t pushing themselves fully yet, but their movements were already mesmerizing. These weren’t just athletes—they were the elite of the MTB world. The crowd responded to each moment with cheers, applause, and shouts of encouragement, the energy building to a fever pitch.
And then, the helicopter appeared overhead—a signal that the show was about to begin.
The first rider drops in, carving through their line. The tires slice through the raw, rugged surface of the slope, sending dust billowing into the air. The wind amplifies the experience, carrying the sounds of the helicopter overhead. The audience erupts into applause and cheers, adding to the electric tension in the atmosphere. Words cannot fully capture the intensity of this moment.
I won’t delve into who was the best or who won—that’s already widely known. I’m here for something deeper.
These people are not just competitors. They are ordinary folks who live among us. Yet, they are simultaneously the very best in the world of mountain biking. They give everything—100% of their skill, focus, and passion—risking their lives to deliver an unforgettable spectacle. For us, the audience, it’s a privilege to witness this firsthand, to feel the synergy, the adrenaline, and the unspoken connection in the air.
A special acknowledgment goes to the rescue team. They performed brilliantly, providing immediate assistance to Cam Zink after his fall. Watching the helicopter skillfully land on a minuscule patch of the rugged slope was nothing short of extraordinary—a true display of precision and expertise under challenging conditions!
A Lesson in Humility: Nature Takes the Lead
After the initial breathtaking runs, the time came for a pause. The wind began to intensify, filling the air—and the waiting crowd—with a growing sense of unease. It was a long, suspenseful lull before the course could come alive again. Riders made their way back to the starting points, preparing for their second attempts. But in a place where nature holds the reins, humans are mere guests.
The wind struck again, stronger this time, and the decision became clear—it was too dangerous to continue.
Some riders never got the chance to complete their second runs. The abrupt ending of the final was a stark reminder that Rampage is not only a showcase of human mastery but also a lesson in humility before nature.
As the competition drew to an unexpected close, the moon began its ascent, casting a soft, silvery glow over the slopes. But the day wasn’t quite finished. The evening offered one last gift—a spectacular sunset.
Standing in line for the shuttle, camera in hand, I witnessed a scene of serene beauty: vivid hues of orange and pink painted the horizon, blending seamlessly with the dark silhouettes of the cliffs. It was a moment of quiet reflection, a perfect conclusion to the chaos and energy of the day.
Rampage is more than just an event. It’s a story of people pushing themselves to the limits, of respect for the untamed forces of nature, and of the deep connection that forms between spectators, riders, and this wild landscape. Each of us took something different away from it.
For me, it wasn’t just an experience as a photographer—it was a poignant reminder of the delicate balance between strength and vulnerability, between ambition and reality.
A Finale to Remember
And there I was, standing under the night sky of Virgin, feeling an overwhelming sense of gratitude for everything that had transpired over these days. For the dust, the wind, the cheers, the adrenaline, and the friendships formed along the way. This was a finale that would stay with me forever.
Your Rampage Story
These two days at Red Bull Rampage were more than just an exhilarating event—they were a true test. They reminded me why I fell in love with photography in the first place and gifted me with unforgettable moments that I am thrilled to share with you.
Thank you for joining me on this journey!
What did you think of this glimpse into Rampage? Have you ever been to this event, or is it a dream you hope to make a reality? Share your thoughts, impressions, and dreams in the comments—I’d love to hear from you!
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Disclaimer: This blog post is independently created and is not affiliated with or endorsed by Red Bull.
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