Exploring New Terrain
There are some great trails in our area! And hey, the Birthplace of Mountain Biking (Marin County) is a short day trip away (some of you live there)—but face it, sometimes you've just got to pack your bikes and hit the road to ride some new terrain. From sea to shining sea, here are some regional descriptions to help you pick out a destination mountain biking trip that fits you! (click the images below for riding photos).
California
California alone is so big and so diverse it's impossible to generalize about the "Golden State." From sandy oceanside rides to Return-of-the-Jedi-like runs through giant redwoods or old-growth pine, to some of the sickest downhilling out there (think Mammoth Mtn), Cali has it in spades.
Most of our fair state (especially the Southland) enjoys a plethora of sunny days all year, so pack your sunscreen and shades (though you'll want clear lenses for night rides, or beneath those giant trees that block the sun). Temperatures can vary widely depending on latitude, altitude and proximity to the ocean, so always take a variety of riding clothes.
Trails vary -- everyting from seriously technical trails ideal for all-mountain suspension rigs to smooth, hardpacked roller-coasters where hardtails reign. Typically dry trails favor a good all-around low-knob tire (but inquire locally -- we've got every type of trail condition in the world, right here). Be sure to apply sunblock and watch for poison oak in NorCal hills, and to carry extra fluid if you're inland or in sunny SoCal.
The Southwest
The Southwest is a land of contrasts: with so many red rocks against a blue sky, it looks barren but is actually teeming with life.
With predictably good weather, the desert is a safe choice for your adventures twelve months a year. The riding is technical with plenty of ledges, drop-offs and slickrock to keep you busy for years. Since the dawning of our sport, what self-respecting mountain biker hasn't made (or longed to make) "the pilgrimage" to Moab?
For gear, there's one word: cactus (tubes with sealant, or thorn-resistant tubes are a must). Wet lubes attract dust and sand, so go dry or wax-based. You’ll also get more use out of your bash guard than your big ring.
Tire choice is easier in the desert than other places. Any tire that's good for long stretches of slickrock, loose-over-hardpack and occasional sand, in any width, will excel down here. Oh, and don’t forget dark sunglasses and SPF-bazillion sunblock.
The Pacific Northwest
The Pacific Northwest is known for a lot of things: great bike culture, coffee and mud.
More areas than you can ride in a lifetime and your choice of long, high-mountain epics make it a superb place to visit on your bike.
Intense, short climbs, log rides and stunts encompass the area. Serious riders out here can go through brake pads in a few weeks and whole drivetrains in a season! Bring your most aggressive tires, a good wet lube and your rain jacket.
In the humid west, things don’t dry as quickly, so bring another pair of gloves and change of clothes -- you’ll need them. Or find a good map and compass and head east to escape to drier weather. With two mountain ranges and varied climates you can take your pick of riding in lush, old-growth forest to sub-alpine meadows to riding around an active volcano. Expect company, too.
The secret is out and this area is well known as a superb mountain-biking playground.
The Rocky Mountains
The Rocky Mountains region is incredibly diverse and tests your entire cycling skill set. Everything from treeless tundra 12,000 feet above sea level to high-desert singletrack to deep aspen and pine forests are here for your enjoyment!
True to its name, trails are often rocky & technical, with big climbs and bigger descents. Due to the mountainous and often remote nature, follow the Boy Scout motto and "Be Prepared:"
Bring a good map, extra sunblock and more food and water than you think you need. These mountains make their own weather so it’s not uncommon to begin your ride on a 70-degree day and end up getting snowed on. Haul a wide range of clothes and that second set of lungs -- and be prepared for some of the grandest views and most epic rides of your life (even your dreams aren't this good!).
The Midwest
The Midwest encompasses a pretty big chunk of the country and entails everything from the lake rides of Minnesota to the forests of southern Illinois and Missouri.
In general, hardtails and XC full-suspension bikes rule the land. Skinny tires roll fast and allow extra clearance for the often muddy conditions. That doesn't mean big bikes aren't welcome, there are plenty of drops, rocks and technicality to be found.
Without huge mountain passes, Midwest riders creatively pack a labyrinth-like maze of trails into smaller parks and in and out of glacier-cut ravines, making the most out of the available space and allowing for all-day epics.
A map of the local system is a must, with trails that crisscross each other, it’s not hard to get lost, which can be a good thing. It can be humid here, so it's a goodidea to have more sets of clothes and extra gloves.
The South
The South may sound like an unlikely destination, but don’t let the locals have all the fun.
The trails are often muddy and can be rooty, rocky or sandy, too, so the riding is challenging and enjoyable. Without looking too awfully hard, you can find lots of rocky, technical action with drops and stunts, too.
The climbs here aren’t often long but can be steep and intense. Wide, aggressive tires with soft rubber that sticks to roots and rolls over mud rule down here. Plus, there's a great community of mountain bikers -- the big organization is SORBA, and there are lots of fun local clubs, too, so you're sure to find a ride, race or event that suits you year-round.
The Appalachians
Riding in the Appalachians is like stepping back in time, and there are few things more fun than tearing through deep, old-growth woods on tacky, loamy dirt, hopping over logs and blasting through water crossings. Of course, with this come some special requirements. A good "wet lube" on your chain is essential, as is regular cleaning and maintenance to prevent rust and corrosion.
Tire choice is crucial for good traction and top handling; locals like wide, square-sided tires with fairly aggressive knobs that bite into the hardpack below the leaf litter and mud. Sunglasses with yellow or photochromatic lenses help enhance the contrast though dappled light. Weather is "variable" all year, so bring a rain jacket. Watch Cody Kelley ride the trails of Coldwater Alabama here!
The Northeast
Finally, roots, rocks, mud and lung-busting climbs, as the friendly folks at NEMBA will tell you, await you in the challenging, beautiful Northeast.
This "technical" terrain is tough on body and bike, so don't forget the essentials: big, knobby tires, oil-based chain lube and photochromatic lenses for seeing well in the deep, dark woods. Summer and fall are best, with mild weather and gorgeous views.
Have you ever seen fall color in New England? But beware -- these seasons also bring out man-eating insects and poison ivy. Wear insect repellent and avoid leaves of three. Summer means warm and humid, so bring a thin, breathable jersey and carry plenty of fluid.
Autumn offers crisp, dry weather, making it vest, arm- and knee-warmer time. Despite the challenges of riding here, there's nothing quite like finishing a ride bruised, tired, muddy and super satisfied that you're a better mountain biker thanks to the obstacles you just overcame.