Craving adventure on two wheels? Thinking of escaping the 9 to 5 to ride 24/7 on the open road?
Planning a mountain biking expedition is a great way to satisfy that urge.
Mountain biking isn’t your typical weekend hobby. It’s an adrenaline-pumping, all-you-can-eat buffet of adventure. The rugged terrain, extreme weather, and world-class scenery add up to one hell of an adventure. In fact, over 9.2 million participants hit the trails in the US in 2023.
And whether you’re hitting the trails in the desert or riding through alpine forests, the results are the same:
Mountain biking is an addiction that’s difficult to kick.
Even more reason to get super organized for your next mountain biking trip. Because when you’re miles from nowhere on a full-suspension bike over rugged terrain, there’s no shoulder to be your new best friend.
Let’s break it down, so your next mountain biking expedition is a raging success.
What you’ll learn:
- Know before you go – Don’t skip the planning phase!
- Pick your poison – How to choose an expedition destination
- Suit up, buttercup – Get the best gear for the trail
- Map and compass – Navigation essentials for mountain bikers
- Carpe Diem, extended – Logistics of multi-day mountain biking
- The journey continues – How to recover after a bike expedition
Know before you go
When you’re riding singletrack through the backcountry, the old adage “preparedness is key” has never been more important.
First things first, know your fitness level. Mountain biking isn’t a casual pastime.
You’re fighting gravity, pushing hard for hours on end, and miles from the nearest convenience store.
This isn’t the time to realize that you only ride your bike for fun.
Start training 8-12 weeks before your planned expedition. This should include long endurance rides, hill climbing, technical practice, and core strengthening.
Don’t just wing it with your equipment. Do your research.
Find out as much about your route as possible. Study the elevation profile and map out potential hazards. Know where you can resupply, where you can bail out in an emergency, and what local rules you need to know.
And finally, and perhaps most importantly, give a copy of your planned itinerary and timeline to a trusted contact back home.
It may seem overkill, but remember that the bike is only carrying you out – someone will need to bring you back in.
As the old saying goes, “Plan for the worst, hope for the best, but prepare for anything.”
Pick your poison
Mountain biking destinations range from the sublime to the ridiculous. But what may work for some may not be the best choice for your first expedition.
Choose a route that matches your skill level. 90% of mountain bikers report at least one injury during a typical riding season.
The good news is that most injuries are avoidable. Choose terrain that you can comfortably handle – better safe than sorry.
The less experienced should start with established trail systems that offer:
- Clear trail markings and difficulty ratings
- Easy access to towns/civilization
- Predictable weather patterns
- Rescue services if needed
Intermediate and advanced riders can push the envelope further afield but should still play it smart.
Plan around your chosen location’s best riding season. Alpine regions may only be accessible for a few months out of the year. Desert climates can be brutal during the summer.
Suit up, buttercup
If your gear was overpriced when you bought it before a bike trip then it’ll be exorbitant now that you’re in the middle of nowhere with only your wits to keep you company. With the right outdoor gear you can be prepped to face the elements correctly.
Your bike setup is paramount. Choose a mountain bike that’s appropriate for your expedition.
Full suspension systems offer more comfort on rough terrain but can be heavy and complex.
Hardtail bikes are lighter and more reliable but less forgiving on technical descents.
Essential expedition gear should include:
Safety Equipment
- High-quality helmet (you will hit the ground at some point)
- Knee/elbow pads
- First aid kit – wilderness-specific supplies
- Emergency communication device (satellite messenger/PLB)
Navigation
- GPS device – fully charged with preloaded maps
- Backup paper maps and compass
- Route planning software (offline maps/apps)
Repair/Maintenance
- Multi-tool with chain breaker
- Spare tubes and tire levers
- Pump/CO2 inflators
- Chain lube and basic cleaning tools
Camping
- Lightweight tent (depending on location)
- Sleeping bag rated for temperatures
- Compact cooking system
- Water purification
Oh, and don’t forget to wear appropriate clothing layers, as mountain weather can change in seconds. A sunny morning can quickly turn into a frigid, rain-soaked slog.
Map and compass
The magic 8 ball clearly works for some people, but getting truly lost is rarely a positive experience in the wilderness.
Master your navigation tools before setting out on your expedition. Know how to use your GPS device and backup maps in familiar terrain. Study how to read topographic maps and interpret the elevation contours.
Don’t forget to establish check-in protocols. Set regular communication with a trusted emergency contact. If a scheduled check-in is missed, they should know when to raise the alarm.
Know the signs of common mountain biking injuries as well. Head trauma can be especially serious out in the backcountry, so if a rider suffers a crash, look for confusion, persistent headaches, and altered behavior.
Weather awareness is also critical. Mountain conditions can change in minutes, turning a pleasant ride into a survival situation. Always check forecasts ahead of time and plan contingencies.
Carpe Diem, extended
For the multi-day trip planner, here are the logistics that you’ll want to nail down before your expedition.
Food and water are vital, so proper strategy matters.
Know your caloric needs. Depending on the intensity of your riding, expect to burn between 400-1000 calories per hour. Eat high-energy food that won’t spoil and doesn’t require preparation.
Water is even more important – know where you can refill along your route and always have purification capability. Dehydration is a serious problem that impairs judgment and increases accidents.
Know the local camping regulations for your chosen location. Some areas have designated campsites while others allow dispersed camping. Research rules and get permits in advance.
Identify resupply points for long routes. Some riders mail themselves supply boxes along the way. Others rely on post offices or local businesses to hold packages.
Group dynamics can make or break an expedition, so figure out how your crew will handle it.
Pace, rest stops, and decision-making expectations should be on the table before departure. The strongest rider may not make the best expedition leader.
The journey continues
Like any race, the work doesn’t stop once the finish line is crossed.
Physical recovery is an important step after a multi-day mountain biking trip.
Expect reduced activity immediately after you return from your expedition. Focus on gentle stretching, proper hydration, and sleep.
Maintenance of your bike and gear is just as important. Do a thorough cleaning and inspection, checking for frame damage, worn components, and bearing play.
The goal is to catch potential problems early and have them fixed before your next trip rather than letting them snowball into bigger (and more expensive) problems.
Document your experience while it’s fresh. What did you like? What would you change? These post-expedition notes will be invaluable for future trips.
The great thing about the biking addiction is that it can be surprisingly therapeutic.
93.5% of mountain bikers report a reduction in anxieties while riding.
Bikes don’t just take you places. They can be good for your mental health, too.
Bring it home
Mountain biking expeditions can offer amazing experiences for those that are willing to put in the preparation and work required to make them successful.
The key is to start small. Plan a few overnights before moving on to more ambitious routes.
As with all biking, things will go wrong. The goal isn’t to be a hero. It’s to safely enjoy an awesome adventure.
Quick recap:
- Training for at least 8-12 weeks before your trip is non-negotiable
- Choose a destination that’s appropriate for your skill/experience
- Spend money on safety and navigation equipment, not cheap knockoffs
- Plan logistics carefully – especially food and water
- Always err on the side of safety over distance/schedule/drama
The mountains will be here when you’re ready for your next adventure.
