Trail Blazers: How Beginners Conquered the Trails with our MTB Course

Pedal Power’s brand-new Mountain Bike Skills Course has officially wrapped up; and what a journey it’s been! Designed especially for beginners, this course welcomed a group of riders who, for many, were stepping onto the trails for the very first time. By the end, those same riders were confidently navigating the hills, corners, and descents of Canberra’s beautiful mountain biking tracks.

The adventure began on the Centenary Trail in Taylor, where the group learned the essentials: from finding balance and building confidence on the bike, to mastering safe braking, gear shifting, and tackling obstacles with ease. Guided by expert instruction of one of our board Members, Tone, and a supportive, fun atmosphere, each rider quickly found their groove. What started as cautious first pedals soon became spirited rides filled with encouragement, progress, and a shared sense of achievement.

The grand finale took place at the One Tree Hill Trailhead in Hall, where the group came together for a celebratory revision ride. Climbing steadily up to One Tree Hill, riders were rewarded with sweeping views over Taylor; a perfect moment to reflect on how far they’d come in just a few short weeks. The ride back down was smooth and joyful, marking the end of the course with the confidence of riders who had truly embraced the challenge.

This course was more than just learning how to ride; it was about building community, enjoying the outdoors, and discovering the thrill of mountain biking. Every participant arrived as a beginner and left with new skills, new friends, and a new love for hitting the trails.

The positive impact of the course has already been felt. One parent shared how much it meant for her son and nephew to take part, highlighting the passion and encouragement they received from Tone. She noted how the boys not only enjoyed themselves but grew in confidence, with her son now more enthusiastic than ever about riding and practising his new skills. For her, the course was a holiday highlight – and the fact that it was affordable and accessible made it even more special, opening the door for families to enjoy opportunities that might otherwise be out of reach.

Pedal Power couldn’t be prouder of what this first groups achieved and is excited to offer more beginner courses soon. The success of this course proves that with the right support and a little determination, anyone can take on the trails… and have a blast doing it.

Here’s to more adventures ahead!