It’s Time to Start Mountain Biking in Redding
There’s A Trail for Everyone
Whether you’re an expert level mountain biker or an inexperienced noob, the Redding area has a ton to offer you. With over 150 miles of maintained trails in the immediate area, it’s easy to find a trail that fits your experience level. I regularly meet people traveling from all over Northern California who come to Redding to ride on our beautiful trails. Our area is quite a hidden gem for the mountain biking community.
You’re Going to Need a Bike
I took the leap into the mountain biking world a few months ago when I bought my first used bike. Since the first day I hit the trails, I constantly day-dream of exploring a new one. It’s not as intimidating as it once seemed. You can buy a used beginner bike for a few hundred bucks (don’t be a dummy and ALWAYS wear a helmet!) and then you are set for adventure. In Redding there are a few locally owned bike shops with great staff I would recommend checking out. My two favorite shops are Sports LTD, and Chain Gang Bike Shop. These guys can answer any questions you may have about purchasing a bike, or trails in the area.
How Do I Find These Trails
My favorite app/website to find new trails is Trailforks. It can give you an easy to read map showing you all the trails in your area, with color designations indicating difficulty level. I use this app every single day that I ride. I’ll even pull it up when I’m lost on a trail, and it can pinpoint my location easily to show me I should have turned miles ago. Keep in mind, lots of the trails crisscross across each other. It can be easy to end up on a new trail without even realizing. Pay attention to the trail signs. Otherwise that easy 4-mile loop you were trying to do, turns into a 12 out and back experience.
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Article by Aaron Palmer, Redding CA