Mountain biking is the one sport I have not gotten into. Not really for any reason other than it just wasn't super accessible to me. During a visit with friends out in Utah, I FINALLY had a chance to give it a whirl, and yea it was better than I thought. Great- just what I need. Another expensive hobby. Lol.
But for real, there’s definitely something appealing about exploring beautiful places this way—covering ground faster than hiking but without feeling disconnected from the terrain. Crashing a little here and there? Eh- just feels like part of the process. For that reason, I would also call it a much more humbling way to explore nature.
If you’re new to it like me, the Klonzo Trail System just outside of Moab, Utah is a killer place to start. The trails are super well-marked, and there’s a nice progression of difficulty so you can build skills without getting in over your head. A lot of the beginner loops are smooth, flowy, and just technical enough to give you a taste of what mountain biking can be. Plus, it’s the desert scenery can't really be beat. If you're moving slow or stopped to take a break, you're still winning.
I rented a bike in town and spent the whole day out there trying different loops and getting a feel for it. No crazy climbs or sketchy drops—just pure fun and a lot of learning. Definitely a place I’d go back to as I get better, and highly recommend to anyone looking to dip a toe into the world of mountain biking without feeling intimidated.