A mountain is a huge neverending hill. Most bikers avoid hills/inclines because of the intimidation factor or lack of endurance. The best way to improve is to actually climb the hills! Tackle a hill you already dislike (road or dirt) then tackle a larger one, then a larger one. Slowly you will build your endurance. If you want a faster method and you’re not in the heart attack risk zone then practie speed drills. Obtain a watch with a second hand (digital is great). Time yourself on the flats and increase that time. THen start timing yourself on the hills. Make it a goal to continually beat those times. You’ll know when you’re ready for the mountain, things will be getting easier.

If that’s too much dedication for you, tackle that mountain! You’ll likely only get so far, but remember how far you got, increase your riding time each week and keep increasing how far you get up the mountain. If you’re trying to tackle a 5,000 ft elevation (as I’ve done) and it’s too hard (as it likely will be at first) Find some local Buttes that are half that high or less.

A buddy biker or group can help to keep going! Challenge each other or encourage each other while climbing.

Don’t be afraid to stop, you need to pace yourself and stay healthy! As always watch your core temperature, drink water, mind any traffic, etc.

We used to ride the fire roads to the top and then ride down the face of the mountain via established trails.