Do you prefer out-and-back trails or loops?

Mountain bike trails that are laid out in a loop have a different vibe than those that are designed to be ridden out-and-back.
By Jeff Barber

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A person pointing at a detailed map showing the Back 40 trails in Bella Vista, Arkansas that highlights various trails and locations in a park, with marked paths indicating different difficulty levels. The map includes multiple lakes and forests, along with information on parking and regulations.
File photo: Jeff Barber

Admittedly, some surveys are designed to validate my own personal opinions about mountain biking. Though I try to avoid biasing the results, this week I’m just going to come out and say it: I really prefer loop trails to out-and-backs and spiderweb trail networks. Riding a loop gives me a sense of accomplishment at the end of the ride, the scenery never repeats itself, and I don’t have to think too hard.

But that’s just me.

Do you prefer out-and-back trails or loops?

If you didn’t choose “loop,” convince me that another trail layout is better in the comments below. 🙂

 
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