Hannah, thanks for the additional info.

I think I would actually prefer an enduro type of event rather than loops. I love mtb. touring and it's just this great long, ongoing journey. Mentally I love that, not sure about loops yet.

I haven't thought of enduro because the only thing that comes to mind is the Leadville 100 and I've heard how incredibly difficult that is. Do you know of any "tamer" events?

Once again, thanks for all the info.!!