The Criteria
First, let’s determine a framework. What makes for great mountain biking? Here’s my criteria:
1. Varied Terrain & Trail Options
In order to be awarded the best mountain bike state in the US, the mountain biking terrain needs to be unique and varied.
Personally, I like to ride a wide variety of trails from slickrock slabs to high alpine traverses and everything in between. Therefore, in my opinion, the winning state must have lots of different options when it comes to where and what to ride.
Bike parks? ✔️
Old school trails? ✔️
New school flow? ✔️
Miles of XC singletrack? ✔️
Cool and interesting features? ✔️
2. Local and State support
There’s nothing worse than riding somewhere you feel like you’re not welcome. Whether that’s passive-aggressive comments from selfish NIMBY locals (or worse, they shut down a bike park) or even other riders judging you for riding your e-bike, I’m really not interested in spending my time or money where I’m not welcome.
The best mountain bike state the US must be welcoming and open to local and visiting riders alike. It should also have infrastructure for those riders, like safe bike paths, tool stations, and plenty of places to get a post-ride beverage and food.
3. Innovation
Mountain biking today is not anything like mountain biking 10 years ago. Bikes have changed, trail building has changed, the whole sport has changed.
So which States have kept up?
The best States for mountain biking should be embracing innovative trail design, working with Federal, State, and Private agencies to create new networks, and have a plan to keep up with trail maintenance.
Bonus points for ‘extra’ innovation like cool trail art, community events, festivals, and the like.
4. Natural beauty
I don’t know about you, but one of the reasons I love mountain biking so much is because it allows me to spend time outside in nature. I love big rides with big views that make you feel like everything is going to be ok.
Unfortunately, not every state has the majestic Rocky Mountains of Colorado or the beautiful red rock towers of Sedona, but the best riding destinations should at least have something in the way of unique natural beauty.
