How to Build a Mountain Bike Track

As the popularity of mountain biking increases, more bikers are building tracks on their property or close by, allowing for frequent rides. Building a track, which can have single or double lanes and can traverse diverse types of terrain, also allows for custom features to match a rider's skill level.

Things You'll Need

  • Ax Mattock Limb pruners or pruning saw Survey tape Rake
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Instructions

    • 1

      Determine the track's path. Make an initial walk-through, taking into account obstacles you may or may not want to avoid and water or erosion issues.

    • 2

      Flag or mark the track. This will allow you to work without having to second-guess the track as you work. This will also allow you to continually walk the course and make corrections and adjustments. It will also allow others to offer input since it allows them to see the track outlay.

    • 3

      Remove low-hanging limbs, brush and small trees from the track route. Use a pair of limb pruners or a pruning saw to cut back limbs and remove brush. To avoid overly stressing larger trees, don't remove more of a limb than is necessary. And leave intact as much undergrowth as possible as this will help to stabilize the soil along the track.

    • 4

      Remove old stumps, larger rocks and other debris from the track route. Use an ax or mattock to pry loose larger objects from the route. However, avoid cutting roots, since this may permanently damage surrounding trees. Remove thick layers of leaves or other debris that might interfere with riding.

    • 5

      Apply fine gravel such as crush and run to help prevent erosion problems, especially in wetter areas. Fine gravel typically contains rock dust, which, when wet, will settle and pack into a concrete-like surface.

    • 6

      Construct obstacles such as ramps, beams and bridges. Such additions can add to the track's technical level and customize the route to the rider's skill level and ability.