Speed, fresh wind in your face, and an incredible sense of freedom - these sensations are familiar to every rider. For some, this is a serious sport, while others just want to add a little extreme to their lives. Much to the joy of both those and others in the world there are many places that will impress even the most picky mountain biker. Thule brand expert Grigory Kozlov told where to go for breathtaking slopes and views. Introducing the 10 best rider spots in the world.
Connecting with nature in Canada
Wistler park
Whistler Park is the largest park in North America. This place is often called the "Mecca" for riders. The park offers professional riders who will guide you on safety and explain the basics if you are just starting out in the world of riding. They will also tell you which road is better to start, because there really is plenty to choose from! 70 tracks of various lengths are divided into 4 levels of difficulty, the last of which will test the strength of even the most important mountain biking pros.
Chilcotin Mountain Park
This spot has been competing for a long time with the previous one for the title of the best place for riders in Canada. Coming here, you can count on stunning views, an unforgettable riding experience and a sense of privacy. Only you, your iron friend and the road that stretches far ahead. By the way, due to the fact that Chilcotin Park is really a remote place from civilization, it is worth preparing well. Be sure to bring your first aid kit and an adequate supply of drinking water.
Also keep in mind that Chilcotins has very poor cellular coverage, so it's best to play it safe and get a paper map of the park.
Also, it's worth remembering that some of the tracks go through grizzly bear habitats. Therefore, you should take care of safety in case of an unwanted meeting and bring bear spray with you.
Picturesque Australia
Samford Valley Rail Trail
Go there if you want to plunge into history and admire the mesmerizing views. The track runs along an abandoned railroad that was closed after Australia's worst train disaster in 1947.
The direction is great for beginners: a fairly good road surface and a short length - about 8 km. And if you get tired in the middle of the way, you can easily go back - thanks to the excellent landmark in the form of the railway, the chance of getting lost is minimal.
Bunyaville Conservation Park
And this Australian route is more suitable for experienced riders. The landscape is quite difficult here, there can be steep ascents and descents. The scale is also impressive: 10 interconnected tracks, the total length of which is 22 km.
Be careful: in some places a person or a horse may suddenly appear in your path. The fact is that the park also has a network of hiking trails and horse riding trails.
Exciting downhill in Wales
Revolution bike park
Suitable for extreme lovers.After all, it is here that you can experience a dizzying downhill: the park is famous for its steep descents. However, every rider will be able to find a path for himself. There are three difficulty levels available: if you want a relaxed, calm ride, choose the blue lane, and if you are ready to test yourself and the bike for strength, welcome to the black one.
New Zealand Holidays
Rainbow mountain
The city of Rotorua, in the vicinity of which the park is located, is deservedly considered the best destination for riders in New Zealand. It has hosted many major events, including the 2017 World Riding Championships. There is everything here for an unforgettable experience: stunning nature, challenging tracks, good weather.
It is best to come from November to April, but you can ride at any other time: thanks to the mild New Zealand climate, the temperature is comfortable for driving all year round.
Norwegian pearls
Hafjell Bike Park
Hafjell Park is also famous for the Mountain Biking World Championship. Fans of this sport will find 17 tracks with a total length of 29 km.
An introductory course for beginners is held here every weekend. But you need to book it in advance on the official website of the park, because there are a lot of people who want to get advice. But even if you can't get on the course, you can hire a personal instructor. Still, mountain biking is a rather difficult sport, and it is better to comprehend its basics under the supervision of a professional.
Route Trollstigen
This route is located in one of the most picturesque corners of Norway. Therefore, in addition to exciting trails, you will also find beautiful landscapes: the famous Norwegian fjords, dizzying slopes and even stunning waterfalls.
The variety of tracks will also please. Fans of extreme sports will find “wild”, impassable landscapes suitable, and those who are more inclined towards an easy walk will be happy with asphalt paths.
Adventure in the jungle of Peru
Andes, Peru
For those who are not afraid to get lost in the unexplored forests of mysterious Peru, trekking in the Vilcabamba jungle is perfect. The exotic nature and atmosphere of the ancient Inca empire will make the trip even more exciting. But remember that the roads can be quite difficult to pass, especially after rains. Therefore, the route is more suitable for experienced riders.
The American dream
Sedona Park
Here, any rider will find his way to his strength and liking. But no matter which track you choose, stunning views await you in any direction.
The park is beautiful at any time of the year, but it is better to visit it in spring or autumn. If you do decide to travel in the summer, plan to check in early in the morning or late in the evening to avoid the midday heat.
The second point to consider is height. Sedona Park is located at 1320 meters above sea level, so you may need a little time to acclimatize.