How to Get Started Mountain Biking in Lake Tahoe
Few sports can compete with mountain biking for opportunities. Combining exercise, thrills, adrenaline, and nature, many people are hooked once they finally get into mountain biking. Once you begin to see how many locations and trails are out there, even just in the area around South Lake Tahoe, there will always be something new to try whether you're going after a new view or a new level of difficulty.
But this is an overwhelming amount of options when you need to decide where to go and what trails to take, also considering if you have the stamina and skills to take on a new trail. Then of course, you will need the right bike, including choosing between a standard mountain bike and an electric bike, and the range of brands, models, features, and more. So when you want to get started mountain biking in Lake Tahoe, where do you begin?
How to Mountain Bike in South Lake Tahoe
South Lake Tahoe is a great place for mountain biking no matter what skill level you are at. There are trails that are largely flat and without obstacles for bikers who are just getting started all the way to trails that challenge even the most professional riders. With the views you will be treated to, any challenges will be worth it.
Once you know you want to give mountain biking in South Lake Tahoe a try, here is how to get started:
Rent Your Equipment - Renting a bike is a great choice if this is your first time out to make sure you like the sport, and also to give you an idea of what you want in a bike before you invest in your own. Pine Nut Cycle Cafe rents and sells bikes and E-bikes in South Lake Tahoe. E-bikes are our specialty, and we find them a great option for beginner mountain bikers since the pedal assist will make it easier to climb while keeping up your energy and giving you more space to focus on navigating the obstacles on your trail.
Get Safety Equipment - At Pine Nut, our bike showroom has a range of accessories you may also want for your day on the trail. As a local company, our team also has extensive knowledge about biking trails in the area and can point you in the right direction.
Choose an Easy Trail - Watching bikers fly down switchbacks or climb to fantastic views can make those trails tempting. But you will want to build up your skills before you tackle some of the harder mountain biking trails in Lake Tahoe to prevent an injury or an experience that will turn you off the sport before you have tried it. Good local trails to start out on are the Railroad Grade Loop and the Power Line Trail.
Level Up - As you start to feel more comfortable, you can seek out more difficult rides in the area. Some good ones are the Sidewinder Corral Train and areas around Spooner Lake. Sites like Mountain Bike Project can also provide information about trails in the area like difficulty and what type of riding to expect.
If you find mountain biking is for you, you can eventually invest in a standard mountain bike or E-mountain bike of your own for an even better riding experience.
Some things you will want to remember as you get started with mountain biking is that this is a dangerous sport. Wear your helmet at all times. Additional equipment like gloves can also be valuable to protect your hands in a fall.
You also want to be honest with yourself about your skill level as well and know that there are some times where it is better to dismount and walk than attempt a ride that is too advanced. This approach will keep you safe while biking and ensure you make it at the top for the best views and the best descents.
If you are ready to try biking in South Lake Tahoe, take the first step and book a bicycle for rent in Lake Tahoe from Pine Nut Cycle Care.
