2026 Mammoth 450 - Day 2

Last month, I wrote about a new backcountry bikepacking route in and around the Loess Canyons of Nebraska created by local legend Paul Brasby. See, Paul Brasby's Mammoth 450. At that time, Paul was out there with a group of friends taking on everything wrought by that route and the elements.

For an introduction to the 450 mile route and their planned itinerary, go to 2026 Mammoth 450 - The Plan.  For daily photo galleries, go to Day 1.

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By Paul Brasby

The Plan for Day 2 (47 miles - Wellfleet Lake to Maywood City Park)

A very scenic climb out of Wellfleet. Don't forget to look behind you. You'll ride by Archie's dig site, enjoy some two track and winding canyon roads. Water is available on route - see map for locations. There are no other re-supply opportunities on Day 2 until you arrive in Maywood. Camping is available at Maywood City Park, including water, power, and bathrooms. Most amenities are available in town - see map for details. FYI - the grocery store in Maywood is unreliable and all they have is snack food and pop. Plan to re-supply in Curtis for the next two days of riding until the end of Day 4. Camping fee is $10/tent.

We were trapped in our tents for hours this morning from severe thunderstorms. Matt had a stream running under his tent at one point. Finally crawled out of our tents at 1 pm. Due to the weather, we had to call an audible and take Highway 83 to Maywood. We had a great 10 mile ride. LOL.

Matt's tent footprint shows the amount of sand built up beside his tent.
(image by Paul Brasby)

Clean-up on campsite 4 before riding anything on Day 2.
(image by Paul Brasby)

Paul and Matt set the pace on Highway 83.
(image by Jeff Bloom)

Matt breaks out a wet tent at Maywood City Park.
(image by Jeff Bloom)

Drying out in Maywood at the end of Day 2.
(image by Paul Brasby)

Maywood City Park.
(image by Paul Brasby)

Rush hour in Maywood, Nebraska.
(image by Paul Brasby)