Ride Soquel Demo Forest with MTB Girls Ride Club on July 18. Build confidence, improve your skills, and experience the iconic Flow Trail with expert coaches.
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.
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.
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.
In the quiet Sierra mountain town of Avery, California, 26-year-old April transformed a dream into a thriving mountain bike community. What began as a vision to recreate the welcoming bike-shop culture she loved in Santa Cruz became Mountain Aloha MTB Co.—a rider-driven hub that now connects locals, visitors, and trail advocates alike. Despite industry skepticism, financial risks, and personal setbacks, April built more than a business; she created a place where riders gather, friendships form, and mountain biking continues to grow throughout the region. Her story is a testament to the power of community, perseverance, and believing in an idea before anyone else does.
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.
The June 7 Toro Bravo XC race delivered thrilling competition and a milestone worth celebrating: women accounted for 20% of the field, including four racers in the Open Women’s category. As Antonio Torres and Lucia Walbeck claimed Open division victories, the event highlighted the continued growth of women’s participation in mountain bike racing and the strong, inclusive community driving the sport forward.
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.
Mountain bike racing returns to Toro Park on June 7 with Toro Bravo XC, the second event in the 3CX Summer Series. Whether you're chasing a podium, a personal best, or simply looking to challenge yourself, this iconic cross-country course offers an unforgettable race experience. Women riders of all ages and abilities are encouraged to join the adventure, build confidence, and celebrate the growing mountain biking community together.
Known for its legendary fast and flowy singletrack, supportive atmosphere, and all-level categories, the series has become a favorite for everyone from beginner riders to elite racers looking for high-energy cross-country competition. But what truly makes the 3CX series special is the people.
