Discover the diversity of MTB

Mountain biking (MTB) is a versatile and exciting sport that includes a variety of disciplines such as downhill, trail biking and cross country (also known as XC).

Whatever your preference, there is guaranteed to be a type of mountain biking that suits you. Simply put, MTB is all types of cycling where you use a mountain bike. 

MTB in the mountains

SkiStar's destinations offer everyone the chance to enjoy at least one type of MTB.

• Downhill cycling is a fast-paced adrenaline rush. Downhill is the most adrenaline-filled type of MTB. It involves cycling down steep and technically challenging trails, often with obstacles such as rocks, roots and jumps. Read more about downhill cycling » 
• Cross Country puts endurance and technique to the test: Cross country cycling means cycling on country roads, forest roads, trails or wherever the bike takes you. Rides can be anything from short distances to several miles long, so this is your chance to really test your fitness, endurance and technical ability.
• Trail biking through mountain scenery: Trail biking is one of the most popular types of mountain biking and involves cycling on natural or man-made/excavated trails through forests, mountains or other scenic areas. Read more about trail biking »

Read more about MTB at our destinations

• In Sälen, you and the whole family can experience versatile MTB with family-friendly downhill, trail and cross country cycling. Perfect for adventure-seeking cyclists.
• Trysil offers miles of wonderful mountain biking. Trysil has something for everyone in the family, whether you want to cycle in the woods or take the lift to the summit and try out fun flow trails down the mountain.
• Åre is pure heaven for anyone who loves downhill. With Scandinavia's largest downhill park and a large trail biking area in Björnen, Åre has cycling for all levels and ages.
• Hemsedal offers trail biking with beautiful views. Take the lift to the summit, then whizz down the mountain while enjoying the breathtaking scenery.
• Vemdalen is perfect for those who want a slightly calmer pace in the saddle. Here the whole family can take the lift up and then explore the trail biking trails down the mountain. 

Five tips for MTB:

1. Better safe than sorry: Everyone is a beginner at first, so it's better to take it steady and practice your technique at the pump tracks and skills areas rather than head straight for the toughest trails with an “I’ll figure it out as I go along” attitude.
2. Relax: You won’t enjoy cycling if you are stiff as a board and feel every jump and root. Relax, bend your arms and legs and let your body instinctively follow the terrain.
3. Cycle actively: Move while cycling - when you go uphill you need to put weight on the front wheel; on a downhill you need to put your weight in your bum and the centre of gravity to stay balanced.
4. Look up: Staring directly at the rock you're trying to avoid will nearly ensure that you’re going to smack right into it. It’s called “target fixation”. Instead, look past the obstacles to where you actually want to go, and plan your ride ahead.
5. Brake gently: As a beginner, it can be tempting to press both brakes all the way into the handle - resist this temptation! MTB brakes are so sensitive that you only need one or a couple of fingers to adjust your speed. Avoid crossing and locking the brakes - instead, practice gently “dosing the brakes” so that you always feel in control of the bike.