Mountain Biking with the Outdoor Program: A Beginner's Adventure
Yesterday I went mountain biking for the first time in Ogden with the Weber State Outdoor Program! I had only been once before in Southern Utah, so I knew this was going to be a bit different. Before I left, I packed 2 liters of water, an assortment of granola bars and fruit snacks, a headlamp, sunglasses, a small first aid kit and so much sunscreen into a small backpack.
Because I do not have my own bike or helmet, I was able to rent them from the rental center on campus. The rental techs were able to size me to the correct bike, and then alter the suspension to my weight and height. I was ready to go!
After a short drive from Weber campus, we pulled into the Riverdale Bike Park. From the parking lot you could see a small bike pump park and a paved path that curved behind the trees. The leaders unloaded our bikes and we gathered into a circle. We introduced ourselves and found that most of us were beginners looking to advance our riding skills.
While the participants sipped water and covered their necks in sunscreen, the leaders began to discuss the bike’s anatomy. After a short course on breaks, gears, and trail etiquette, we were ready to ride!
The trail began wide and paved. A trip leader took the front and the rest of us began to fall in line. One by one, each rider took to the right lane and followed the path through the trees. On our right, the river was flowing strong and proud. To the left, trains charged north as their colorful cars followed behind. The sun told me it was evening, but dusk was still far from us.
We continued until the pavement disappeared into a dirt trail. We paused for a short review of bike safety and possible dangers that we may see ahead. Once we were all confident, we began again. We rode through tall grass on uneven ground. Having started at a leisurely pace, we began to gain speed. Thoughts left as I concentrated on weaving through rocks and tree limbs. Occasionally people would cheer or hype up the rider ahead. Our group was encouraging each other with every new bend.
We began to strengthen specific skills by practicing switching gears while riding uphill, and how to position your body when riding down a steep trail. After a few more bends in the trail, we were back to where the paved path met the trail. It had been a circle.
“Alright, time to do it again. But this time you know what to expect. Let's go!” And with that, we started again. We raced between the trees and through the grass. The river shone through the leaves as we flew past. Ears were filled with the water crashing and riders hollering to congratulate the person ahead.
Our group had gone from beginners that had not been on a mountain bike before, to a team that was able to climb while shifting gears and drop down steep trails. We followed the dirt and felt the wind brush past us.
The sun began to slowly sink into the horizon as we began to reassess. As the evening started to cool, we started to head back to the cars.
It was so incredibly fun and I learned so much about riding a mountain bike and how they work. The group I was riding with was extremely encouraging and gave me clear and thorough answers to all of my questions. This trip made me a more confident rider and inspires me to pursue mountain biking in the future.
About The Author
Matisse is a Weber State student and has been involved in the Weber Outdoor Program since the Spring of 2021. In that time she has held almost every position that the program has to offer! She is working toward a Bachelor of Integrated Science Degree which focuses on Web Development, Digital Media, and Outdoor Recreation Education. This makes it possible to combine all of her passions into one direction. As an Ogden local, she looks for any chance to escape into the mountains and makes it a priority to create an accessible environment in any activity that she leads. Although backpacking and hiking have a special place in her heart, becoming a raft guide and honing in climbing skills has become her main focus, due to all the amazing mentorship available. Educating the community about how incredibly powerful the outdoors are and how to enjoy them safely is the exact reason we are all here!
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