Post by JM Lara

When we kicked off Yeti Gathering México, we never imagined how far this dream would take us. Every year has been a journey that blends the madness of riding with friends and the magic of the places we visit. And this year, we’re taking it to a whole new level. Because we’re heading to a place that’s not just talked about in the MTB world… it’s part of its soul: we’re going to Oaxaca!

Yes, Oaxaca. That paradise that needs no introduction for anyone who rides. Its mountains hold ancient trails carved by Indigenous peoples, where every descent tells a story at full speed. There’s no artificial flow here—just real, raw, technical, and delicious natural terrain. And when the ride ends… another legend begins: tlayudas, mezcal, colonial streets, and unforgettable flavors. This Gathering will be a feast of bikes, culture, and celebration.

So get ready, Yeti Owners, because from Thursday, October 9 to Saturday, October 11 (with a killer chilaquiles breakfast send-off on Sunday, October 12), the heart of MTB will be beating in Oaxaca—and you need to be there.

This year, we’re packing maximum adventure into every minute. We kick things off on Thursday, October 9 at 2:00 PM at Hotel Victoria in Oaxaca City. That’s our meeting point to park cars and hop on shuttle vans by Transierra Norte, our legendary co-hosts.

And let’s be clear: Transierra Norte is not just our logistics partner—they are the architects of modern MTB in Oaxaca. For over a decade, they’ve done more than build trails—they’ve built a community. Their world-renowned race put Oaxaca on the global MTB map. Their trail-building is rooted in sustainability, local culture, and pure passion for riding. Partnering with them is an honor; riding with them is a privilege.

From there, we head up to Ixtepeji, where we’ll hit a couple of sunset descents and then grab our lights for a proper night ride through the forest—a bold way to kick off the Gathering. We close the night with a premium grilled dinner and rest in the cozy mountain cabins (five-person occupancy).

On Friday, we wake up to local coffee, fresh air, and that unmistakable buzz of bikes getting ready. And yes, if you hear someone yelling “¡Vamoooooonos!”, that’s me—keeping things rolling, making sure nobody’s left behind and every plan stays tight. Because even a party needs someone driving the chaos.

We spend the day shredding iconic and hidden trails with Transierra Norte’s expert crew. Somewhere in the trees, Locoshawn is floating through lines like the forest bends for him, Uncle Nate is running buttery follow cams, and Sarah is laying down lines with perfect flow while breaking down suspension details like a true pro.

At midday, a solid lunch in the mountains refuels us. The ride winds down with campfire laughs and that signature Yeti Gathering vibe. Gordo Lu is telling stories, Sapo is pouring mezcal like a wizard, Dave from TRP is back for his fourth year—and we’re all feeling the stoke.

Later, we descend into Oaxaca City and check into Hotel Victoria, where we’ll stay Friday and Saturday nights in double occupancy superior rooms. Friday night is free time—dinner is not included. Why? Because Oaxaca’s food scene is worth exploring on your own. We’ll help with suggestions or bookings if needed. You might spot Hans Frei leading a rooftop crawl, or Pato Zorrilla, chilled as always, handing out Monkeylion party shirts and coordinating the official Yeti merch drop, all part of the welcome kit for every rider. Because riding in style is part of the fun.

Saturday brings the epic traverse. Fewer vans, more pedaling. From the highlands of Ixtepeji, we make our way to San Pablo, crossing wild, flowy, and technical terrain with massive views. Lunch is under ancient trees, and just as the sun begins to set, Big Sexy—the American rider who stole the show last year—throws his hands in the air and shouts, “This is what I came for!”

That evening, we head to Casa Transierra, where our hosts throw down with a surprise Oaxacan feast and full-on closing party. Music, flavors, mezcal, and memories. A true ending to an unforgettable ride.

And on Sunday, spicy chilaquiles wake us up and send us home with full hearts and tired legs. Because every Yeti Gathering is exactly that—an epic adventure shared by friends, bikes, and places you never forget.