When it comes to seeing the sights in this area, sometimes the best way is to hit one of the St George bike trails.
Sure, there are other ways to enjoy the natural beauty of the area. But with St George bike trails winding from one end of the area to the other, this is an excellent way to see the sights. It’s more up close and personal than driving, but a little faster than walking.
Plus, it’s a great way to recreate as a family.
For starters
Beginning bikers will have the most success by accessing the trail system at Confluence Park, located near the Dixie Convention Center on Dixie Drive. From here you can get a taste of the views available. Simply bike until you get tired, then turn around and head back to the parking area. Or, you can follow the loop all the way around.
Another St George bike trails worth exploring for beginners and families is the Red Hills Parkway bike path, which allows riders to go in either direction away from cars to enjoy the views.
Our recent excursion started on the Confluence Park trail and Mayor’s Loop. We jumped in on the access point nearest our home in Bloomington Hills. This proved to be just the thing.
Get the gear
Although our two older children have bikes of our own, the grownups in our family have not sat astride a two-wheeler in years. Even though we were interested in getting a feel for the St George bike trails, we weren’t sure we wanted to invest fully into bikes for the adults just yet.
Luckily, there are rentals available from Bicycles Unlimited.
The knowledge and expertise provided by the technicians at Bicycles Unlimited proved to be invaluable. Their honest assessment of the archaic bikes we brought in for a tune-up, followed by their suggestion to give rental bikes a try for the weekend was perfect. We were able to see how far the technology has really come in the bicycling world.
Armed with helmets, one electric bike, one traditional mountain bike and a bike cart for our youngest child (borrowed from a friend) we were ready to explore.
Be prepared
No matter the time of year, but especially when the temperatures heat up along the St George bike trails, preparation is key. Be sure to bring plenty of water and salty snacks to keep you going. Even on a short ride, you’ll be glad you did.
Helmets — although not regularly worn by bicyclists when Generation Xers were kids, are the norm today and it’s a good idea. Plus, they make the helmets so lightweight and airy, it’s not as cumbersome as I imagined.
Other tips for cyclists include: don’t bike alone, bring a map and be aware of other cyclists, walkers and other traffic all along the St George bike trails.
On the trail
There are several bike service stations situated along the St George bikes trails. That’s because of a variety of Eagle Scout projects and other donations, If you happen to run into bike trouble along the way, don’t worry. You can add air to your tires, use the tools provided at the service stations and get back on the trail in no time.
While riding along St George bike trails, there is a feeling of freedom and happiness that is hard to describe. Particularly for those who haven’t ridden a bike in a while. The old adage, “it’s just like riding a bike,” really is true. Even those in our group who hadn’t ridden in ages were able to get into the groove without any trouble.
Bike types
Having the chance to compare an electric bike with a more traditional mountain/road bike side-by-side was a great experience. Although there’s a slight feeling that you are “cheating” a bit on the hills when you engage the electric boost. Still, it’s wonderful to have the option when you need it.
That said, today’s bikes are made with such amazing materials. They are much lighter weight than the bikes you may be familiar with. Add to that the option of switching gears and you don’t necessarily need the electric bike to reach your destination.
Enjoy the ride
The key when embarking on any of the St George bike trails is to simply enjoy the ride. Enjoy the beauty Southern Utah has to offer. Feel the exhilaration as the wind streams through your hair. Appreciate the freedom you haven’t felt since you were a child.
If you would like to see yourself enjoying a home near this amazing system of bike trails, check out the homes listed for St George.