Trip Locations
Lowell Dracut Tyngsboro (LDT) State Forest, Mass.
The Lowell Dracut Tyngsboro state forest is located just minutes from UMass Lowell campus and contains over 1100 acres. This trail system curated by the New England Mountain Bike Association, offers something for everyone. There are miles of dirt roads and smooth rolling double-track trails for beginners. For intermediate riders, the single-track trail system offers many challenging (but always optional) obstacles to practice your skills. Ride leaders will review basic mountain bike techniques and mechanics and ride at an inclusive, no drop pace. We’ll start and end at the UMass Lowell Bike Shop riding to the trail from campus. We will attempt to cater to the ability of the group. New riders welcome!
Estimated Physical Exertion Level: Light-Vigorous
Great Brook State Park, Allenstown, Mass.
Don't you enjoy trying new things, getting outside, cycling, or meeting new friends? Join the Outdoor Adventure Program for a fun and exciting adventure to Bear Brook State Park in Allenstown, NH. According to the New England Mountain Bike Association (NEMBA), Bear Brook State Park features “40 miles of trails [that] accommodate biking, hiking, horseback riding and include x-country skiing and snowmobiling in the winter.” The trails, “here can accommodate all abilities. Trails consist of dirt roads, double track, single track as well as numerous natural features for extra fun. This is what makes Bear Brook a great time. You can ride easy on Podunk road or push yourself to the limit on Catamount Hill.” Mountain biking may seem intimidating to some or sound like a real rush to others. Wherever you lie on the spectrum we have top-notch gear and trained and experienced instructors to ensure you have an awesome adventure.
Estimated Physical Exertion Level: Light-Vigorous
Groton Town Forest, Groton, Mass.
From New England Mountain Bike Associations Description, “The trails in the Groton Town Forest are fast, mostly smooth, sometimes sandy and sometimes hilly. They flow in and out of the woods on a series of old woods roads and single tracks. You'll frequently find yourself cresting and then riding along the ridge of a drumlin that was left there by the last glacier.” Group Leaders will review mountain bike fit, skills and techniques, navigation, pre/post ride maintenance and nutrition as well as other topics that arise. We’ll take this ride at an inclusive, no drop pace.
Estimated Physical Exertion Level: Light-Vigorous
Bear Brook State Park, N.H.
Do you enjoy trying new things, getting outside, cycling, or meeting new friends? Join the Outdoor Adventure Program for a fun and exciting adventure to Bear Brook State Park in Allenstown, NH. According to the New England Mountain Bike Association (NEMBA), Bear Brook State Park features “40 miles of trails [that] accommodate biking, hiking, horseback riding and include x-country skiing and snowmobiling in the winter.” The trails, “here can accommodate all abilities. Trails consist of dirt roads, double track, single track as well as numerous natural features for extra fun. This is what makes Bear Brook a great time. You can ride easy on Podunk road or push yourself to the limit on Catamount Hill.” Mountain biking may seem intimidating to some or sound like a real rush to others. Wherever you lie on the spectrum we have top-notch gear and trained and experienced instructors to ensure you have an awesome adventure.
Estimated Physical Exertion Level: Moderate-Vigorous
Mine Falls, Nashua, N.H.
Looking to learn how to mountain bike? Here’s your chance! The New England Mountain Bike Association’s website says” Mine Falls is the perfect place to learn how to mountain bike. Mine Falls and Lincoln Park is an island of 325 acres of forest, river, and wetlands surrounded by the city of Nashua.” We’ll review basic mountain bike techniques and mechanics and ride at an inclusive, no drop pace. Rent a Mountain Bike for the Bike Shop and Outdoor Center (included) or bring your own!
Estimated Physical Exertion Level: Light-Moderate
Kingdom Trails, Vt.
Kingdom Trails in North East Vermont is on of mountain biking’s primer destinations in New England! Join us for a cool and scenic weekend of awesome bike riding during peak fall foliage time in the mountains of Vermont. We will camp at Camp Kent and ride out right from our campsite. Beginner and Intermediate riders are welcome on this trip but please be advised that participants can expect to spend at least 2-4 hours per day in the saddle as we explore Kingdom’s extensive trail system! We will attempt to cater to the ability of the group. Group Leaders will review mountain bike fit, skills and techniques, navigation, pre/post ride maintenance and nutrition as well as other topics that arise. Prior mountain biking experience is recommended. Trip fee includes rental bikes from the UMass Lowell Bike Shop. Explore the town, go for a hike or relax in camp during down times.
Estimated Physical Exertion Level: Vigorous
Skill Level
All trips are open to every skill level unless otherwise noted.
Possible Curriculum Topics
- Leave No Trace
- Track Etiquette
- Reading the Trail
- Pedal Stroke
- Cornering
- Lifting the Front Wheel
- Technical Climbs
- Riding Drops
Tentative Itinerary
Due to the nature of outdoor trips, all itineraries are subject to change.
- 10 a.m. Meet at The Outdoor Adventure Center/Bike Shop
- 5 Lawrence Drive, Lowell, MA 01854
- 10-10:10 a.m. Prepare for Activity
- Check in, use restrooms, fill water bottles, apply sunscreen, change into synthetic layers, etc.
- 10:10-10:30 a.m. Day Overview & Intros
- Introductions, intro game, equipment selection, itinerary review, etc.
- 10:30-11 a.m. Drive to Trip Location
- 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Instruction & Activity
- 2-2:30 p.m. Drive Back to UMass Lowell
- 2:30-3 p.m. Debrief
- Arrive back at the at the Outdoor Adventure Center/Bike Shop, clean up, review course content/answer any remaining question, etc.
- 3 p.m. Latest Dismissal
- This should be determined based off of participants needs and the intended goals of this trip - speak to your trip leader
Packing List
The items on this list are strongly recommended for your trip. The weather forecast and your thermal perception should be considered when packing.
- Medical Questionnaire Printed, do not email; complete online waiver
- Personal Medications
- Medical Insurance Card
- Bug Spray
- Sunscreen
- Chap Stick/Lip Balm
- Sunglasses/Eye Protection
- Bandanna Versatile: sweat rag, hanky, napkin, etc.
- Synthetic Clothing Quick dry; physical activity/outdoor clothing; recommend long pants, but avoiding cotton, including jeans
- *2 Water Bottles/Hydration Pack
- *Rain Jacket
- Wool or Fleece Hat
- Insulating Jacket
- Sneakers or Cycling Shoes
- *Headlamp
- *Mountain Bike
- *Helmet
- *Repair Kit
- *Back-up Pump
- **First Aid First aid kit, trained staff, and emergency communication devices
*All items with an asterisk are available to check-out and included in the cost of your registration.
Contact
- Email: OutdoorAdventure@uml.edu
- Phone: 978-934-6151