Why Trails?
It may just be dirt, but when crafted into a well-planned trail network, it’s a reason to be outside.
Trails support the local economy, provide an important connection to nature, and are a pathway to better physical and mental health. Trails bring communities together.
![Two people smiling riding bikes on trails](/sites/default/files/styles/col2grid_700_350/public/content/field_collections/field_column_two_grid/2024-02/why-trails.jpg.webp?itok=MQfEJduY)
![ride](/themes/custom/reef/images/ride_new_0.png)
Singletrack trails, bike parks, and other bike-optimized facilities encourage access for a range of riders and trail users, from neighborhood children to the weekend warrior to the serious athlete. These amenities become a valued part of people's lives and communities.
Why Mountain Biking?
Riders know the wonderful feeling of being in nature, pedaling to a good sweat, conquering a new feature, and being in that blissful state of flow. As a result, mountain bikers are often the user group asking for new trails and volunteering to steward them.
![Family mountain biking](/sites/default/files/styles/col2grid_700_350/public/content/field_collections/field_column_two_grid/2024-02/family-mountain-biking-min.jpg.webp?itok=z1rb1Opj)
![ride](/themes/custom/reef/images/ride_new_0.png)
Mountain bikers might want diverse options for their own enjoyment as well as a trail their kids can enjoy. Local mountain bike clubs bring the community together through volunteer trail work, group rides, events, and skills clinics.
Because, Bikes.
Riding a bike is a shared experience among so many. Everyone remembers their first bike rides and their best bike rides. Bikes are a symbol of freedom and adventure. Combine that spirit with the peace and pleasure of the great outdoors, and mountain biking does wonders for the brain.
![Two mountain bikers hitting technical features on a mountain bike optimized trail](/sites/default/files/styles/col2grid_700_350/public/content/field_collections/field_column_two_grid/2024-02/because-bikes_0.jpg.webp?itok=f1_WNKyU)
![ride](/themes/custom/reef/images/ride_new_0.png)
We often hear the ABCs of mountain biking (air, brakes, chain), but let’s celebrate the three F’s: focus, flow, and fun. Ask any mountain biker out there what it feels like to ride with friends, and you’ll surely hear an F-word.
Sign up to keep up !
Mountain biking news delivered to your inbox
![A badge for More Trails Close to Home shows the image of a mountain biker on a trail and notes 38 communities where trails have been created, 41 have committed, and 335 have engaged in the process A badge for More Trails Close to Home shows the image of a mountain biker on a trail and notes 84 communities where trails have been created, 89 have committed, and 530 have engaged in the process.](/sites/default/files/inline-images/MTCTH_BadgeJan2024_2.jpg)