Mountain Biking in Juneau, Alaska

Living Alaska

Photograph by Author — Top of the Mountain at Eagle Crest, Juneau, Alaska.

The Birthplace of Mountain Biking

Forty-five years ago, when I was 13, I built my first mountain bike in Marin County, California. It was a new sport, and I had quickly outgrown my BMX bike. I used parts from motorcycles, beach cruisers, ten speeds, and my BMX to construct a downhill monster, conquering Mt. Tamalpais, the birthplace of mountain bikes.

Mountain Climbing on a Bike

Since 1979, a lot has changed in the mountain biking world, and I have enhanced my skills and abilities by adapting to these changes. I now ride an e-bike explicitly designed for mountain climbing. I challenge myself by climbing up mountains rather than daring mortality by screaming downhill at breakneck speeds.

The Need for Speed

The thrills I once gained in the Need for Speed have been surpassed by the endorphin release of reaching the top of the mountain. I use oversized hydraulic brakes for the downhill ride. I no longer think it is cool to terrorize uphill hikers on my way down the mountain.

Photograph by Author — The Emerson Spur Trailhead Douglas Island, Alaska.

Bears and Human Interaction