Clouse passed early attacker Lauren Zoerner (Alpha Bicycle Co) on the first lap and never looked back, opening up more time every lap to take her third straight national title in cyclo-cross.
The 2019 U23 champion and 2018 junior champion topped Maddie Munro (Trek Factory Racing) and teammate Lizzy Gunsalas, with Zoerner battling to fourth.
It was Clouse's 34th national title across three different disciplines, from 'cross, road and mountain bike.
"I think today was pretty special because I know how strong Maddie is," Clouse said. "She's so strong, so I knew it was going to be a hard race. She's one of my top competitors and one of my good friends so it was a good day."
Clouse returned from a three-week European campaign that included a top-10 at the World Cup in Besançon in the elite field and will return for another stint over the Christmas holiday.
"I think it was good, our last couple of races were super muddy - I know the US races have been super fast and dry so it was good to get some muddy races in before today. I'm glad it was muddy, it made for a good race, it made it more technical."
Get The Leadout Newsletter
The latest race content, interviews, features, reviews and expert buying guides, direct to your inbox!
Laura Weislo is a Cyclingnews veteran of 20 years. Having joined in 2006, Laura extensively covered the Operacion Puerto doping scandal, the years-long conflict between the UCI and the Tour de France organisers ASO over the creation of the WorldTour, and the downfall of Lance Armstrong and his lifetime ban for doping. As Managing Editor, Laura coordinates coverage for North American events and global news.
