“How do I find trails near me? Where can I find trail maps?"
A large part of the thrill of mountain biking is riding new terrain, being challenged and testing your skills on new features. But finding the right trails can be a challenge, especially if you’re new to an area, new to the sport, or if your area just doesn’t have many well marked and maintained trails. Rest assured though - in most places, the trails exist. They just might be insider knowledge. So how do you find them?
Here’s a list of the best resources—apps, websites, and people to ask—that will help you discover mountain bike trails suited to your skill level and preferences.
Trailforks
Trailforks is the must-have app for mountain bikers. It’s the standard bearer. Once you find a trail, you can even use Trailforks to navigate that trail, making sure you stay on course. It offers an extensive database of trails worldwide, complete with detailed maps, elevation profiles, and user reviews. You can search for trails based on difficulty level, distance, and location, making it easy to find the perfect route. The app also provides information on trail conditions, which is crucial. Near us, certain trail systems are closed if we get too much rain. Huge bummer if you drive there without knowing.
MTB Project
MTB Project is another fantastic app/website for discovering mountain bike trails. It’s curated by local riders, ensuring that the information is accurate and up-to-date. Each trail listing includes a detailed description, photos, a difficulty rating and a map, so you’ll know exactly what to expect. You can also download trail maps for offline use, which is great for areas with spotty cell service.
Local Bike Shops
Your local bike shop is the ultimate treasure trove of information. The staff will have firsthand knowledge of the best trails in the area, including those that may not be listed online. Ask about their favorite spots, and you might get insider tips on hidden gems, trail conditions, and local riding groups. Some shops even organize mountain biking events or group rides that you can join. Joining a group ride might be your best bet, because it allows you to sample the local trails without having to worry about getting lost or ending up on trails that are too difficult/dangerous.
AllTrails
While AllTrails is popular with hikers, it’s also a valuable resource for mountain bikers. The app and website allow you to search for trails based on location and activity, including mountain biking. User reviews and photos provide insights into what to expect on each trail, and you can filter results by difficulty and length to find routes that match your skills and time frame.
Local Mountain Biking Clubs
Joining a local mountain biking club is an excellent way to discover new trails. These clubs often have organized rides, and members are usually happy to share their knowledge of local routes. You can find clubs through platforms like Meetup, Facebook Groups or by searching online for mountain biking organizations in your area. Plus, joining a club provides extra motivation to get out, ride and participate.
Strava
This is probably obvious (strabvious? …No? I’ll stop) at this point. Use the app to discover popular trails by exploring routes that other riders have shared. The "Segment Explorer" feature allows you to find challenging sections of trails and see how your performance stacks up against others. Additionally, Strava’s "Heatmap" feature shows you which trails are most frequently ridden, helping you find popular spots. This Heatmap feature is great when trails around you aren’t marked well or at an official trailhead.
Trail and Racing Associations
Many regions have trail and race associations dedicated to maintaining and promoting mountain biking trails, and putting on race series. These organizations always have websites or social media pages where they post maps, schedules, locations, trail conditions, and events. Support these associations by becoming a member or racing and become part of your local trail community.
YouTube
Go to youtube and type in “mtb” and your city name. So, “mtb austin tx” and see what comes up. Likely, lots of POV riding videos of trails in your area. Can’t promise the footage will be good or interesting, but at least you can see where they’re riding and what the terrain is like.
Word of Mouth
Never underestimate the power of striking up a conversation. When you find one trailhead, and come across another rider, strike up a conversation. They probably have intel on other areas nearby. Whether you meet folks on the trail, at a bike shop, or through a club, don’t hesitate to ask about their favorite places to ride. Riders who know the area well can provide insights that you won’t find online.
Once you've got that awesome new route planned, it's time to get to that trailhead! Zip up all your gear in The Bag and you're out the door in no time, and you know you're prepared for anything the ride throws at you.
