Check out these mountain biking hotspots
By Allison Stephan
Mountain biking is all about just being out there. Sure, killer climbs, rocket launcher descents and comparing scars are a big part of the allure, but the true thrill lies in simply being there. If you live in the city and love mountain biking, you know the fishbowl feeling you get when you desperately want dirt, but can’t find enough. A while ago, I began keeping a record of trails that I ride and make a few notes for my friends who also love dirt. Hopefully some of these destinations will help you get out of the fishbowl and into the dirt. 
Memorial Park Trails, Houston
While everyone knows about “The Park,” the trails are still worth mentioning if only for their convenience. Don’t get me wrong, Memorial Park is a great place to ride, but you won’t find any significant mileage there and, unfortunately, thanks to wash-out, many of the trails are simply rooted mazes. However, if you’re in for a quick ride, then this is the spot. You’ll find trails for all levels, although if you’re a true beginner, you’ll want to stick to the purple trail that serves as the perimeter for the other trails. For a challenge and some short, fast descents, try the blue or orange trails. Most of the trails are located behind the baseball fields, except for my personal favorite, the green trail, which is located between the picnic loop and Memorial Drive. Houstonparks.org.
The Anthills in Terry Hershey Park, Houston
This eight-mile, point-to-point, single-track trail is fast and fun, albeit with abundant poison ivy. You can drop in at Wilcrest Drive–or anywhere in between–and ride to Eldridge Parkway along the banks of Buffalo Bayou. While most of the trail would qualify as beginner to intermediate level, you can build up some speed, catch some air and have a good time. The best thing is the easy bail out onto a paved jogging trail that allows beginners to pick and choose what to ride and where to rest. Pack plenty of water and invest in some calamine lotion. I’ve never been on this trail without returning home with a poison ivy rash that warrants a few visits to the drug store.
Huntsville State Park, Huntsville
If you’re up for a day trip, then head north about 60 miles to Huntsville State Park. While you won’t get much air, this is a fun place to take the family. You’ll find miles and miles of mostly easy riding on fire roads and three-foot-wide trails through the forest and around the lake. Pack a lunch and plenty of water because it can take several hours to navigate your way through. For more info, visit Tpwd.state.tx.us.
Barton Creek Greenbelt, Austin
If you’ve not ridden the Greenbelt, you need to! It offers spectacular views and a great ride for all levels. Located near Zilker Park, this eight-mile single-track winds through some magnificent scenery while literally challenging the best rider and giving the beginner enough reason to come back again and again. The best part of this ride is the after-ride festivities on Barton Springs Road. Info: Texasoutside.com.
Rocky Hill Ranch, Smithville
Yep, this is the place that is home to plenty of mountain bike races, but even if you aren’t ready for competition, you should give this great 16-miler a try. Thanks to its high level of technical riding opportunities, this single-track is a great place to hone your skills. Don’t leave home without your wallet, as it costs $6 to ride here but, rest assured, your money will be well spent. This is not the place to ponder the universe. Keep your eyes on the road or your bike might end up in a tree alongside several others.
Double Lake Park Mountain Bike Trail, Coldspring
If you have never graced the saddle of a mountain bike and are looking for a place to start, then look no farther than Double Lake Park. About an hour northeast of town, you’ll find the best place for a beginner to get a taste of what the rest of us are raving about. While this wonderful eight-mile loop is all about beginners, it’s also a great place to log some recovery miles and just mindlessly ride. The park charges $5 for admission. Info: Trails.com
Contributing editor Allison Stephan is a cyclist, Spinning instructor, personal trainer and freelance writer. Contact her at Allison@wonderwriter.net.