Hawaii: No Recommendation
As a collection of high islands, it’s difficult to escape volcanic rock and steep slopes in Hawaii, and even the flat trails are characterized by wheel-sucking sand. While there are a couple beginner-rated Hawaii trails in the Singletracks database, none seem to offer much in the way of enjoyment for newbies. Hit the beach in a swimsuit instead.
Idaho: Kestrel, Sidewinder, Hulls Gulch
There are multiple trails to choose from in the Kestrel area, though the trails generally become more difficult the farther and higher you go. These trails are popular with hikers, especially on weekends, so plan accordingly.
Illinois: SIUE
The trails at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville (SIUE) are great for beginners, and more advanced riders will enjoy them as well. With 8 trails and almost 10 miles of singletrack, newbies will have plenty of room to practice.
Indiana: Potato Creek State Park
The 8 miles of trails at Potato Creek State Park are great for new riders, especially kids who are just getting started with trail riding. Riders will find a few technical sections along the way, but nothing that can’t be walked!
Iowa: George Wyth
The trails at George Wyth are not all that well signed and they see minimal traffic, but the mild terrain and overall flow make this a great place to take beginners. More advanced riders will appreciate the ability to ride fast and rail the “classic Iowa river bottoms singletrack.”
Kansas: Lawrence Riverfront Trails
Like several trails on this list, the Lawrence Riverfront Trail is known as a family-friendly, recreational path along a river levy. But plenty of flat, smooth singletrack lurks along the edges of the official trail, begging beginners to try something a little more adventurous!
Kentucky: Capitol View
The trails at Capitol View aren’t 100% beginner-friendly, but the fact that the trails are easily accessible from Frankfort and offer multiple bail-out points make this a good place to start.
Louisiana: Comite Trails
Louisiana is actually a beginner’s mountain biking paradise, with nearly half of the state trails listed on Singletracks rated beginner or easier. So that makes Comite all the more compelling, given the stiff competition! The Comite trails are mostly smooth with little elevation change, and more difficult features are usually signed with ride-around options.
Maine: The Sandpit
There aren’t a lot of beginner trails to choose from in Maine, but if I were just starting out I would want to try riding at the Sandpit. While Maine is known for having trails with roots on top of roots on top of rocks, Singletracks reviewers appreciate the smooth bits of singletrack found at the Sandpit.
Maryland: Bacon Ridge Trail System
Pretty much everyone agrees that bacon is delicious, so it’s no surprise the Bacon Ridge Trail System features tasty singletrack that’s sure to delight new riders. This is a relatively new trail system that’s already getting rave reviews from families and new riders alike. Look for more trails to be added to this system in the future.
