1. Gather the Necessities

On a simple day trip, all you need are a sturdy pair of shorts or pants and some shoes you don’t mind getting mud on. A simple backpack with food and first-aid cuts it for what you need on the trails.  Then, obviously the most important thing, you need a sturdy mountain bike, a BMX or roadster won’t cut it in the back woods. All mountain bikes have deep treads on the wheels and a gear shift on the handlebars, working like a car’s transmission to help you make it up and over hills easier. The bikes can be bought at a local Wal-Mart or bike shop, only costing around $100, if you don’t have one already. There is no need to go online and order a $3,000 dollar bike with carbon fiber frame, 11 gear system, light and computer to help you change gears.

2. Location. Location. Location.

If you are looking for an easy ride, going to any of Lake Count y Forest Preserves is close and simple. Or, if you are willing to travel a little bit to the trails in Galena or the Waterfall Glen in Woodridge, IL. Most of these trails are either paved with asphalt or have gravel trails that span anywhere from three miles to fifty.

3. First Steps

Granted that you have a means of transportation, all you need to do is know your strengths. Start out on a shorter trail, maybe 10 miles in length and work your way up. Explore, take the road less traveled. As long as you know your destination nothing can stop you. So, bring a few good friends and enjoy a nice spring day.