Though the clouds last Thursday had plenty to say, fortunately, the skies briefly parted for this year’s Ride Leader Training at Tualatin Mountain Forest (formerly Rocky Point). You may know NWTA has a long history of leading social or “group” rides throughout our service area, and maybe you’ve even joined one, and thought to yourself, “Wow, this is a great time. This is a great hot dog. What cool people. What amazing ride leaders, how do they do it? Could I do that?”
The answer is yes, you can–and last Thursday, five riders joined NWTA’s Youth and Recreation Programs Manager, Eric, for a few hours of conversation and hands-on learning centered around one very important goal: hosting group rides that are safe, welcoming, and fun for everyone.
What Makes a Great Mountain Bike Ride Leader?
We revisited a core message throughout the night: you don’t have to be an advanced rider to lead a ride. You do have to be organized, attentive, and focused on the group rather than your own experience.
The training was built around a “show while doing” philosophy, as participants experienced the full arc of a group ride from the inside. We covered the leader, rover, and sweeper roles; how to describe a trail accurately so riders know what they’re signing up for; the ABCDHW bike safety check; and how to handle the things that don’t go according to plan.
Hands-On Group Ride Training at Rocky Point
Then we actually rode: a ~5-mile loop on Andyland, RP United, and Nettle Alley, rotating roles mid-ride so everyone got a feel for both leading from the front and holding the group together from the back.
Do you remember your first time on a mountain bike? Or your first time joining a group of other riders? Even if your initiation into the MTB world was a while ago, when leading a ride, it’s a good idea to pause and put yourself in the shoes of someone newer to the sport. It can be mentally scary, physically difficult, and the specialized gear and knowledge can be prohibitive.
Building Inclusive and Welcoming Mountain Bike Communities
Considering all of the thoughts that might be racing through a beginner’s mind is key to leading a thoughtful, inclusive ride–and our new ride leaders demonstrated an impressive ability to lead with kindness, stoke, and safety.
These new ride leaders have joined dozens of seasoned leaders in our database and are ready to ride into our 2026 social ride calendar.
Interested in Becoming an NWTA Ride Leader?
Are you interested in joining their hallowed ranks? Shoot Eric a note ([email protected]) and let’s talk.
Thanks to everyone who came out, and to the trails for cooperating.