High above 11,000 feet at Mammoth Mountain, a fearless 10-year-old rider shouted, "Don't get stuck in the kitty litter!" before disappearing down a winding trail—and reminded us that mountain biking is about so much more than riding. From the empowering Gravity Girls event to unforgettable rides with Mammoth's inspiring fourth and fifth grade girls team, MTB Girls Magazine discovered a community where confidence, friendship, and adventure thrive. Whether racing at altitude or sharing stories after the ride, Mammoth proved that the best trails don't just build better riders—they build lifelong memories.
The Heart of a Champion
Fresh off an extraordinary third-place finish at the 2026 Unbound Gravel XL, Larissa Connors continues to prove that true greatness extends far beyond the podium. A two-time Leadville Trail 100 MTB Champion, dedicated teacher, cycling advocate, and devoted mother, Connors inspires riders of all ages through her resilience, humility, and passion for the sport. In this cover story, MTB Girls Magazine celebrates a woman whose greatest legacy may not be her victories, but the countless lives she influences both on and off the bike.
Discover the hidden gems of the Santa Cruz Mountains, where world-class mountain biking meets breathtaking coastal views and towering redwood forests. From the iconic trails of Wilder Ranch State Park to the legendary Flow Trail at Soquel Demonstration State Forest, this guide highlights the best rides for women looking to build confidence, improve skills, and explore one of California’s premier mountain biking destinations. Join the adventure and see why the Santa Cruz Mountains belong on every rider’s bucket list.
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> **"The biggest surprise wasn’t the bike—it was me."** After a month aboard the Mullet Cycles Peacemaker, MTB Girls Magazine Editor-in-Chief Liz Donahey discovered how a purpose-built mullet bike can transform the riding experience. From the rocky climbs of Annadel’s Canyon Trail to the technical challenges of Refugio Trail, the Peacemaker delivered exceptional stability, confidence, and control. With its unique 29-inch front and 27.5-inch rear wheel setup, the bike felt less like a traditional trail bike and more like a dirt bike with pedals—encouraging bold line choices and expanding comfort zones on some of Northern California’s toughest terrain.
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> When Kelsey Wisinski entered her first downhill race in 2019, she wasn't intimidated by the course—she was struck by the absence of other women. That moment sparked an idea that would become Flow Riders, an all-women's gravity mountain biking community now more than 50 members strong. Through coaching, mentorship, racing, and advanced group rides, Kelsey is helping women build confidence on challenging trails and proving that community can be the key to unlocking potential. As her team motto reminds every rider: *"Jump, and we'll catch you."*
Experience the thrill of mountain bike racing at the Santa Cruz Shorty, where women and girls of all ages can build confidence, challenge themselves, and become part of a supportive riding community. Set among the legendary trails of DeLaveaga Park in Santa Cruz, California, this exciting short-track race series combines adventure, camaraderie, and unforgettable memories in one of the sport’s most iconic destinations.
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Join MTB Girls Ride Club on July 18 for the Wilder Ranch Coed Clinic, where California’s stunning Santa Cruz coastline becomes the backdrop for a day of mountain biking, skills development, and personal growth. Guided by coaches Kim Meredith and Liz Donahey, riders will build confidence on the trail, strengthen their mindset, and experience the beauty, history, and adventure of one of California’s most iconic riding destinations.
At Bentonville Bike Fest, women riders discovered the innovative 8 Degree Pedal—the world’s first flat floating pedal. Designed to promote natural foot movement, it combines the freedom of flat pedals with improved comfort, efficiency, and reduced joint fatigue. Whether you're tackling technical trails, gravel roads, or bike park laps, 8 Degree Pedal helps you ride farther, feel stronger, and stay confident on every adventure.
Gabby Huffman’s Marinduro journey showcases what it truly means to go from start line to finish tape in enduro mountain biking. Her story highlights the focus, resilience, and racecraft needed to handle technical terrain and fast transitions while staying composed under pressure. This feature explores her mindset, performance, and the determination that defines her race at Marinduro.
Dani Johnson is redefining what it means to ride with confidence in modern mountain biking. In Unapologetically Sending It, she opens up about her fearless approach to racing, her commitment to progression, and the mindset that keeps her pushing through every climb, crash, and comeback. This feature captures the raw energy behind her riding and why she continues to stand out in the world of gravity sports.
At just 14 years old, Emerson “Emmy” Ross is quickly becoming one of California’s rising junior mountain bike racers. From soaring over jumps to competing on national stages, Emmy’s journey is fueled by determination, resilience, and a love for pushing beyond her limits. Yet her story is about more than podium finishes, it’s about family, community, and the people who have helped her grow. As she continues to chase big dreams, Emmy remains grounded in the belief that success is strongest when it’s shared with others.
Discover why China Camp State Park is one of the Bay Area’s most inspiring mountain biking destinations. Join MTB Girls Ride Club for a unique adventure that blends scenic trails, breathtaking San Pablo Bay views, rich California history, skills development, and a welcoming community. Whether you're new to mountain biking or a seasoned rider, this unforgettable experience offers the perfect opportunity to build confidence, connect with others, and explore one of Marin County’s most iconic landscapes.















