Forty experienced backcountry cyclists gathered in Idyllwild Friday morning for the Stagecoach 400, a 374-mile cycling trek and five-day event originating and ending in Idyllwild. The Stagecoach 400 is a part of the Southern California Enduro Series. Each cyclist is carrying a SPOT tracker, which allows one to track the riders on their rigorous adventure. Both Brendan and Mary Collier, owners of The HUB Cyclery in Idyllwild, organized and are participating in the event. Photo by Careena Chase

The first cyclists are crossing over from pavement to dirt on Cowbell Alley, which marks the official starting point of Stagecoach 400. Photo by Careena Chase

Photo by Careena Chase

Participants pose in front of the Idyllwild tree monument before heading out. Photo by Careena Chase