Mountain Biking for Beginners: A Guide to the Trails

It won’t be long until the cool Autumn weather drifts in, and the fall foliage begs for you to hit the outdoors.  There are many activities to enjoy.  However, if you love to explore and would like a little (or a lot of) exercise, then mountain biking might be a great way to start.  Before you hit the trails, you must know a little about trail riding, so you can prepare and choose the best mountain bike and the best trails for beginners.

Ready, Set, Ride

We all know the saying, “it’s just like riding a bike,” which makes bike riding sound easy.  While this may be true, having the right bike for the trails is imperative to a successful and enjoyable ride.  It is not a one bike fits all situation.

There are many different types of bikes from which to choose.  The first thing to remember when shopping is that road bikes and trail bikes are two very different bikes.  They are geared to the terrain for which they are named. A road bike will not hold up to the rough paths that a mountain bike can navigate with relative ease.

There are also many different types of mountain bikes.  Take the time to speak with a professional to determine which options are right for you.  According to BikeRadar, you’ll need to decide if you need hardtail or full suspension, how much suspension travel, and the appropriate wheel size.  Some other things to look at are frame material, pricing, and size.  

Got skills?

With so many options, it can be intimidating for beginner mountain bikers to discern which trail systems match their skill level.  Before determining which trails you want to explore, you must first assess your own physical fitness and abilities.  According to Evergreen Cycle Revolution, levels range anywhere from no bike experience  (Level 1) to an expert rider (Level 9). 

Of course, there are multiple levels in between, but be honest with yourself. Don’t choose a path that’s too easy and lacks excitement, and don’t choose a trail that is beyond your skill level.  Doing so could lead to injury or worse.  

Narrowing Down Your Trail Options

Similar to the worldwide use of the Trail Marking System used at ski areas, the International Mountain Biking Association (IMBA) also has a Trail Difficulty Rating System. The system is an easy-to-understand method used to categorize the difficulty of trails.  It can help you make informed decisions based on which trails are a good fit for your skill level as mentioned above.  By utilizing these tools in the planning of trails and trail systems, you will improve your overall riding experience.  Stick to beginner trails until you’re a more advanced rider.

The Basics of Mountain Bike Riding

Bicycling.com has a great guide to getting started as a beginner.  It reminds you to stay loose and let the bike do the work and maintain momentum while riding, which makes it easier to get over the rough terrain.  The site also stresses the importance of shifting your weight according to the direction of slopes.  You must “lean forward to keep your center of gravity over the rear wheel to maintain traction.”  Before you ever hit the trail, be sure to take a few good spins on a smooth, level surface to learn all the mechanics of your new bike.

Mountain Bike Parks

One way to enhance your mountain biking experience is to visit a mountain bike park. According to Shred Trail, these parks provide an opportunity for riders to improve their skills, confidence, and enjoyment. Some well-known U.S. bike parks include Trestle Mountain Bike Park at Winter Park Ski Resort in Colorado and Angel Fire Bike Park in New Mexico. Another option is Crested Butte Mountain Resort, also in Colorado, which features the Evolution Bike Park.

National and State Parks and Forests

Once you’re comfortable with your mountain bike skills, you can expand your riding adventures to state and national parks and forests.  One of the more notable destinations is Canyonlands National Park in southern Utah.  This park offers the White Rim Trail with something for all levels and majestic views at every turn.  There are also forests like DuPont State Recreational Forest with 12,500-acres and endless riding opportunities, located in North Carolina.

Other Trails

There are miles of trails beyond state and national parks.  The McKenzie River Trail in Central Oregon with trail networks that wind through waterfalls, old-growth forests, lava fields, and more.  

Kingdom Trail is “built to be Adaptive MTB friendly, the trail travels through beautiful hardwoods and towering hemlock stands.  You don’t have to travel cross country to find great trails.  There are trails like these all over the country where you can take your biking skills to the next level.

Tips for the Trail

Like any outdoor activity, there are safety measures that need to be considered.  Be on the lookout for rock gardens which is any section of trail blanketed with rocks. Rock gardens can have multiple paths running through them, posing different challenges and putting the rider’s skills to the test. 

 Look out for roots and rocks that can throw you off balance.  Always pack survival essentials like water and a first aid kit as well as a spare tube in case of a flat tire.

Mountain biking is a great way to enjoy the outdoors, get some exercise, and explore various parts of the country.  With a little experience and good preparation, you’ll be hitting the trails in no time.  Grab a bike and a friend, and plan your first trail ride before the pretty fall weather fades and the ice and snow move in.