Hooked on Mountain Biking

• Adventure Travel,
• Sports

No, not via foot clips. I'm not ready to be clipped to my pedals. I recently went mountain biking with friends and saw other groups on the trail doing the same. In talking to one of my trail pals about biking tours, biking trips, and the mountain biking world, I realized there's a whole new world of exploring out there for me. I've biked before, but not like this. And, while I'm discovering the joys of mountain biking long after the rest of you, it's never too late to tackle a new adventure, right?

In the ever-evolving landscape of adventure travel, mountain biking has ascended to be a mainstream pursuit, offering an invigorating blend of physical challenge, nature immersion, and communal spirit. For groups of friends and family, the allure of mountain biking lies not just in the thrill of the ride, but in the shared experience of exploring diverse terrains and creating lasting memories.

Top Mountain Biking Destinations & Tour Operators

Recognizing the growing demand for guided mountain biking adventures, tour operators across the U.S. offer high-quality, safe, and memorable experiences tailored for groups of all sizes and skill levels. With their guidance, travelers can delve into the heart of America's most stunning landscapes on two wheels. Here are some of the most popular mountain biking destinations and select tour operators in each of these markets:

1. Moab, Utah: Moab is the jewel in the crown of American mountain biking destinations. Its iconic Slickrock Trail, a rollercoaster of petrified sand dunes, offers a unique biking experience that's both challenging and exhilarating. Beyond Slickrock, Moab's vast network of trails weaves through a Martian landscape of red rock formations and deep canyons. For groups, Moab offers a range of trails suitable for various skill levels, ensuring that everyone from beginners to experts can enjoy the adventure together.

• Rim Tours: With over 30 years of experience, Rim Tours offers expertly guided mountain biking tours across the Southwest. Their tours are known for their attention to detail, safety, and route selection, making them an excellent choice for groups and families. Rim Tours' guides are not only experts in biking but also in the geology and history of the regions they explore, adding an educational element to their trips.

• Western Spirit Cycling: Based in Moab, Western Spirit Cycling specializes in multi-day mountain biking tours. Their itineraries cover some of the most scenic trails in Moab and beyond, including the majestic landscapes of Utah and Colorado. Known for their guides and well-planned routes, they cater to both novice riders and experienced mountain bikers, ensuring a rewarding experience for everyone.

2. Crested Butte, Colorado: Often hailed as the birthplace of mountain biking, Crested Butte's charm lies in its extensive trail network set against a backdrop of stunning Rocky Mountain scenery. Trails like the 401 offer breathtaking views of wildflower meadows and aspen groves. The town's welcoming vibe and diverse trail options make it an ideal destination for groups and families looking to combine biking with a taste of Colorado's mountain culture.

• Chasing Epic Mountain Bike Adventures: Operating in several top biking destinations, including Crested Butte, Chasing Epic offers all-inclusive, multi-day mountain biking trips. Their packages include guides, high-end bikes, and personalized itineraries, making them a popular choice for groups seeking an upscale biking adventure. They excel in creating trips that balance challenging rides with the enjoyment of local culture and cuisine.

3. Bend, Oregon: Bend stands out for its unique high desert geography, offering over 300 miles of trails. The Phil’s Trail Complex is a favorite, with routes winding through dense forests and open meadows. After a day on the trails, groups can enjoy Bend's renowned craft beer scene, with many breweries offering a relaxing backdrop for recounting the day's adventures.

• Cog Wild Bicycle Tours: Cog Wild offers a wide range of tours suitable for all skill levels, from leisurely half-day rides to challenging multi-day adventures. Cog Wild is acclaimed for their local knowledge, which ensures that each group experiences the best trails and sights that Bend's unique landscape has to offer. Their tours often include delicious meals and the option to sample local craft beers, making them a hit with groups seeking a holistic Bend experience.

• Pine Mountain Sports: Pine Mountain Sports offers guided mountain biking tours that cater specifically to the needs and skills of the group. They are known for their personalized approach, ensuring that each experience is tailored to the preferences and abilities of the riders. Whether it's a family outing or a group of seasoned bikers, Pine Mountain Sports provides a safe and enjoyable adventure on Bend's extensive trail network.

4. Brevard, North Carolina: Nestled in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Brevard offers a different take on mountain biking. Here, riders can explore the Pisgah National Forest with its lush forests and cascading waterfalls. The area’s trails range from smooth, flowing singletracks to challenging technical descents, making it a versatile destination for groups of varying abilities.

• Sacred Rides: As one of the pioneers in mountain bike tourism, Sacred Rides offers guided trips in Brevard and other notable biking destinations. Their tours are renowned for combining thrilling rides with cultural immersion, providing an all-encompassing experience. They cater to a range of skill levels and place a strong emphasis on sustainable travel practices.

• The Bike Farm: The Bike Farm offers guided rides in the Pisgah National Forest and DuPont State Forest. They are unique in their approach, providing custom experiences that match the skill and interest levels of the group. Additionally, The Bike Farm offers skills clinics and camps, perfect for groups looking to improve their mountain biking abilities while exploring the trails.

5. Park City, Utah: As the first IMBA Gold Level Ride Center, Park City boasts over 400 miles of trails. The Mid Mountain Trail epitomizes the area's appeal, offering a mix of easy riding and more challenging sections. The town itself provides a picturesque base for groups, with its historic Main Street, diverse dining options, and range of accommodations.

• White Pine Touring: White Pine Touring offers a range of tours that showcase the beauty and diversity of Park City's trail system, which is renowned for its variety and accessibility. Their expert guides are not only adept at navigating the trails but also in providing insights into the local ecology and history, making each trip educational as well as exhilarating.

• Park City Bike Demos: While known for bike rentals, Park City Bike Demos also offers guided tours. Their unique approach allows groups to test out different types of bikes while exploring Park City's trails, making it an ideal choice for those looking to combine a biking adventure with the opportunity to experience the latest in biking equipment. Their knowledgeable staff ensures a safe and enjoyable experience for all participants.

Not quite ready to book a trip to one of these amazing destinations? Love the idea of bringing bikes along on your next camping trip or planning a mountain bike adventure with friends? The MTB Project, Trailforks and the Rails-to-Trails Conservancy's TrailLink are great resources for finding mountain bike trails close to home.

Weaving through trees on a trail of bare roots and rocks left my wrists a wee bit jarred. But the thrill of zipping around corners, splattering mud, and enjoying this with good friends was exhilarating. I'm hooked.

July 10, 2023

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