1. A Well-Tuned Mountain Bike and/or Gravel Bike

Please make certain your bike is in good mechanical condition. If you aren’t sure, we recommend having it tuned by your favorite bike shop/mechanic.

E-mountain bikes are only allowed on certain trails at Mulberry Gap and the surrounding area. For this reason, if you are participating in the mountain skills add-on, you will need to have a non-motorized bike.

2. Pedals

Please bring pedals that you are comfortable on. If you usually use flat pedals, bring flat pedals. If you usually use clipless pedals, bring clipless pedals.

If you usually use clipless pedals but feel unsure about learning new skills while you are clipped into your pedals, or catch yourself unclipping before trying a feature, we recommend you bring a pair of flat pedals (these are not clipless pedals with a platform, they are made specifically for use with flat-soled shoes).

In most cases flat pedals will make it safer to learn and practice during the skills sessions, but if you are a confident clipped-in rider, stick to those. You can also consider doing the skills sessions on flat pedals and switching to clipless pedals when going on trail.

3. Shoes that are compatible with your pedals

Clipless pedals require shoes with cleats. Flat pedals require flat shoes without cleats. If you are using flat pedals, we recommend MTB-specific flat pedal shoes, or flat-soled shoes, like Vans Skate shoes. Shoes with lots of traction/tread (eg. hiking shoes) and lots of cushioning are not suggested.

If you have questions about this please, contact us before the Summit. It’s very important that your pedals and shoes work together when you arrive at the Summit.

4. Helmet
No lid, no ride! Please make sure to bring a helmet. Half-shell helmets are fine. Full face helmets are not mandatory, but you are more than welcome to use one if you prefer it.

5. Hydration Pack
You will want plenty of water. Please come with a hydration pack or backpack filled and ready to consume. Bringing a water bottle with an electrolyte drink mix can also be nice.

We will also have extra electrolytes and snacks available for you.

6. Appropriate Clothing

Our area is fortunate to receive all kinds of weather! From wet and cold to very hot and very dry. Because of this we ask you are prepared for any weather. So please pack your rain jacket even if it doesn’t look like rain!

7. Riding Gloves 

We ask everyone to arrive with bike gloves.

8. Body Armor / Knee & Elbow Pads

Body armor (knee and elbow pads) are optional but can be nice for protection and confidence building. Race Face pads and Five Ten shoes will be available for demo during the retreat! You can check these out at the Meet & Greet on Thursday. Supply is limited so please make sure to bring your usual gear!

9. Fix a Flat Tools & Basic Bike Tools

Spare Tube. Please bring a spare tube that fits your bike’s tire size. Don’t worry if you’ve never changed a flat – we’ll teach you if it happens.

Bike Tools. Our instructors and guides carry tools for minor trailside repairs, but we strongly recommend that you own and bring your own trailside repair kit. At a minimum, this kit should include a pump, tire levers, and a multi-tool. These items will come with a rental bike. Let us know if you’d like help with suggestions on what else to include in your kit!

10. Sunscreen and Sunglasses

Your eyes and skin will thank you!
 

11. Dropper Post / Adjustable Seat Post 

Though not required, we do recommend a dropper post for increased safety, progression and fun!

12. Gratuity

If you enjoy your experience, please feel free to tip your coach/guide!

13. Bring Your Stoke
Because we are about to have a heck of a time on the trail! It’s going to be awesome.