w w w. d i s t i n c t ly m o n ta n a . c o m
35
Helena's Best
I
n helena, there
are so many pres-
tigious riding
areas that the Inter-
national Mountain
biking association
(IMba) designated the area as a bronze level
ride center. Helena is the only ride center in Mon-
tana and joins only 16 other locations internation-
ally. "It means that IMBA has designated our trail
system to be 'world class' and destination worth,"
said Patrick Doyle, community outreach director for
Helena tourism.
According to IMBA's Web site, "The designation
represents IMBA's model trail recognition for com-
munities with large-scale mountain bike facilities
that offer something for every rider." These com-
munities, the Web site continues, take care of riders
both on and off the trail by being places where
mountain bikers are welcome. The Helena area was
evaluated for the types of trails offered, services
available to riders, community involvement, tour-
ism and marketing, and special conditions that go
above and beyond. Helena's scores in each category
landed them in the bronze level of ride centers.
"In addition to a beautiful setting with some rich
history, we found that the capital has a really cool
bike scene," said Leslie Kehmeier, IMBA mapping
specialist. "The mountain biking is excellent, and
the best singletrack is well connected to town.
One would have to plan a number of days to ride
everything, a feature that is essential for an IMBA
Ride Center."
By
LaCEy
MIDDLEStEaD
pHotoS CourtESy oF
patrICk DoyLE
