During Covid we discovered mountain biking. We began this new hobby because it was fun, outdoors and was a great way to exercise while social distancing. It is better than regular biking because it is more adventurous and challenges you to get better. We got started by discovering trails on our own but in order to get better we signed up for the GATORS mountain bike team. Over the summer we practice rolling over obstacles, going up mounds and speeding down hills. We also participate in races where we can test our skills, practice never giving up and celebrate completing races with popsicles or pop rocks!

Do you want to know some great spots to go mountain biking? Here are some of our favorite places you might want to go check out.

Gators Bike Park: 1490 Hard Rd, Columbus, OH 43235

This park is good for beginners. It offers many choices in the difficulty of obstacles, The course is short and has a shaded and sunny area to bike in. There are also QR codes for videos with helpful hints on how to do the obstacles. There is also a Menchie's ice cream nearby to cool off after your ride. We suggest the popping boba, rainbow nerds and sour gummy worms as toppings. YUM!!!

Gnomewood Skills Park: 6002-6090 Lewis Center Rd, Galena, OH 43021

This park offers a longer trail loop around 1.5 miles. There are lots of bridges to cross and a fun bike skills park where you can pick your challenge level. We like the big bike ramp where you can choose the height you are comfortable with. There are boards at the park that show you mountain biking techniques that you should use.

Cannaley Treehouse Village: 3520 Waterville Swanton Rd, Swanton, OH 43558

If you are willing to go on a road trip you should check out the Beach Ridge Trailhead at Oak Openings near Toledo. You can even stay overnight in a treehouse or set up your tent on a platform in the trees. There are 5 loops of different lengths to try and a skills park with a teeter totter and rollercoaster obstacle you can ride. While in Toledo you should check out the zoo with an awesome jellyfish exhibit!!!

One of the best things about mountain biking during the summer is that you can stay cool in the shade of the trees!