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SALT LAKE CITY — Utah is truly an outdoor enthusiast’s dreamland for multiple reasons — mountain biking being one of them. From smooth and steep alpine trails to technical redrocks and sandstone, the wide range of trails all over Utah will get you hooked on the thrill of mountain biking. Not only is the terrain in Utah enticing, but it’s biking community is welcoming and inviting to novice and professional bikers alike.
All summer throughout the state, Utah is the host to mountain biking races held on some of the best trails you can find. Whenever the word “race” is thrown around images of beastly, hard-core and aggressively intense competitors may come to mind. However, most of these local Utah races are not necessarily that intense.
Most of the races held are inclusive to every level of athlete ranging from beginner to professional. The great thing about these local races is you don’t have to have 15 years of race experience under your belt to give one a try. You also don’t need to block out an entire Saturday. Many races offer casual and inexpensive week night races that make for a perfect way to top off your hectic workday. All you need is the desire to get out, push yourself and try something new.
That being said, keep in mind that proper equipment will amplify your mountain biking experience whether you decide to race in an organized race or just want to get out on your own.
Besides needing the gear you also need to know what kind of races and events are going on. The following resources are great ways to get out and try a race or two. The events listed below range in price, mileage, intensity, and location so click around and find the outdoor opportunity that would be right for you.
Races are held every Tuesday evening at rotating venues around the Salt Lake and Park City area.
These races are held every Wednesday evening at rotating venues at Sundance Resort and Heber/Midway.
These endurance races held mostly in the St George area.
Utah State Championship Series
Provides 50-mile endurance races and traditional cross-country races conveniently located throughout Northern Utah.
Traditional cross-country races held all over Utah and mostly on Saturdays.
50-mile national race stretching from Deer Valley Resort to the Canyons Resort.
For more info on mountain biking and trails to try visit globecandy.com. Get out there and try out your biking skills in a beautiful place.
Bryn Bingham is co-founder of Globecandy.com, a travel blog that celebrates the sweet spots around the globe. At Globecandy.com we are always looking for new and exciting ways to get outside and enjoy the adventures nature provides. She currently resides in Salt Lake City with her husband and son. Email: bryn@sldestinations.com
