There are few places that capture the raw, quiet beauty of the desert quite like the Good Water Rim. On January 31st, we’re heading to experience it the best way we know how—on two wheels

This ride is all about the atmosphere. Expect vast canyon views, striking red rock formations, and a winding trail lined with ancient, twisted juniper cedars. It’s one of the most scenic loops in the region, offering a true sense of isolation and high-desert immersion.

The Logistics

• Date/Time: January 31st. Wheels spinning at 10:00 AM sharp.

• Location: Good Water Rim West Trailhead.

• The Drive: Please keep in mind it’s roughly a 2:20 minute drive to the trailhead. Plan your morning caffeine stop accordingly!

The Route

We’ll be tackling a 22.6-mile loop. It’s a classic XC test of endurance and focus, though the terrain is famously flowy.

• Estimated Ride Time: ~2.5 hours.

• Early Exit: For those looking for a shorter day, there is an early exit option at approximately the halfway mark.

• Trailforks Link: View the full route here.

What to Bring

Since we’ll be out on the rim, come prepared. You’ll want to dress warm but plan for some feel good sunshine, a well-maintained bike, snacks, and plenty of water.

Whether you’re coming for the miles or the photography, this is going to be a stellar day out. See you at the trailhead!

How do you prepare?

What you do prepare is entirely dependent on your goals. Are you just wanting to have fun? Maybe you want to finish your first race, or do that challenging trail/route that’s on your bucket list? Or maybe you’re even wanting to compete in a elite/varsity category in a very competitive field? Your first step always needs to be outlining your goals and working backwards to plan out your year. Write them down and review/reflect on them often.

What if I don’t know?

That’s ok, just start riding and having fun. Especially in a group it gets more and more fun. Then you can build off that energy while learning from others to figure out what you want. Biking is a life long sport and no single season, race, competitor, etc. should negatively impact your desire or benefit you get from the sport.

One great piece of advice that I got from a friend is the only way you figure out what you want is by trying, put some effort into the sport and see where it takes you.

What does it take?

Let’s assume you’ve got your goals outlined. Let’s go through some scenarios.

Just Have Fun

Great! This is a worthy goal. You can shed expectations and just enjoy the sport for what it is. The more you do it, the more you improve and the more fun it becomes. I think the key thing is that fun is different for everyone. Some enjoy chill rides, some have fun when they are getting that adrenaline rush on some double black diamond trails, and some have fun competing in races. Fun doesn’t always mean chill rides and there’s no wrong way to do this.

If you find yourself dreading the sport, because you’re training too much, or you’ve had a bad race, etc. Then my advice is to step away and come back when you want to and don’t force it. One caveat here, if you’re wanting to compete the fact is you’re going to have to do some stuff you don’t want to do, like that interval set you’ve been dreading. It’s part of the process. More to come on this.

Finish That Race or Trail

You’ve picked a race/trail, planned it out, set a date, and now you want to make sure you’re prepared. This is great because it puts a target on the calendar, you can work backwards.

Start with assessing how much fitness you’ll need, what gear might help you, or what skills you need to improve upon to have a great experience. Write it down, put some milestones on the calendar, and plan it all out.

Let’s say you planned to finish an ICUP race. Look at the course, estimate the time it’ll take to finish, look at the terrain and ride similar trails, etc. If it’s an 8 mile race and you think it’ll take 45 minutes then start riding 3-4 times a week for that amount of time and go from there.

If it’s a bigger race like True Grit (50 miles on tough trails) you’re going to really need to put some effort into this. Let’s assume it’ll take you 4 hours. Well, you’re going to have to work up to riding for that amount of time. Pick 1 day a week, ride for maybe 50% of the time and add 10% each week until you can ride for 4 hours. You’ll want to be able to do this within about 3-4 weeks before you you race to allow for recovery/taper periods.

Competing at The Highest Levels

Let’s say you’ve had some success, really enjoyed it, and are now wanting to compete at an elite level. Let’s go through some examples.

1. The top 10 Utah NICA Boys Varsity Riders averaged about 450 hours of riding by the time the state race occurred.

   1. This is an average of 1.5 hours of riding PER DAY.

   2. Stop caring about miles. What matters is time on bike while riding on similar terrain to what you’ll be racing.

   3. This doesn’t exclude off the bike exercise which is absolutely needed. Think weights, cross-training, etc.

   4. Sure it’s 1.5 hours per day but certainly there is some big rides in there to shift that average. Think 3-4 hour ride once per week and stay consistent with 1 hour rides throughout the week.

That’s a lot, especially for young athletes trying to balance family life, social life, work, and school.

So how do you do it? CONSISTENCY. You can’t cheat the clock and make up training by suddenly riding a lot just 4 weeks before you expect to race. It takes consistent training over time. Doing those intervals when you didn’t want to, getting that ride in at 6am because you have school and work later in the day, etc.

What is consistency really? It’s discipline applied. Having a goal and being willing to work for it to get there.

How to balance it all out?

You need to have balance. Too much training will get you hurt, not enough will leave you unprepared, and too much of anything will burn you out and reduce your enjoyment in the sport. So how do you do it? Here’s some tips I’ve learned over the years:

1. Remove the barriers. Get your clothes out the night before, have your bike prepared, just set your mind to the fact you’re doing that interval set. Removing all barriers helps limit the number of excuses you make to avoid doing what you need.

2. Ride with buddies. This is so important. Doing a long endurance ride with a friend can make those 3-4 hours zoom by. Doing it along feels like an eternity. So send that text the day before, plan it out, be the person organizing those group rides. You will not regret it.

3. Remind yourself of the goal. Why are you doing it? Keep the focus on your intended outcome and it'll keep you motivated.

4. Time off and Recovery is part of training. Your body needs to take time off to recover. Your mind needs to take time off to enjoy the sport. Integrate it into your training by planning it out. Shed the anxiety of losing fitness. I PROMISE taking 2 weeks off on occasion will allow you to break through any training plateau you’ve hit and allow you to reach new performance levels.

5. Design your training to incorporate all of this. Strategies like block periodization can help.

What Do I Do in the Off-Season?

Now that you’ve got your goals and some idea of how to get there you need to execute. What that looks like varies wildly depending on goals.

For an elite Varsity rider? They’ll need to be riding through the winter to build that base endurance to prep them for some tough sessions ahead.

For someone that just wants to have fun? Get outside, don’t be afraid of the weather, ride with buddies, have fun!

For a targeted race/trail? Well there’s no getting around it, start to ride enough to get you to the finish and simulate your race conditions.

There’s a lot to learn about endurance training. Thanks all!

Jersey:

Bib:

And an Alpine Thermal Jersey:

We’ll keep the store open until Saturday, January 10th 2026!

• 2026 Registration Form

• Strava Club

• Training Peaks (Training Plans) Signup (select the free plan)

• Practice Calendar

• Join Slack

  • Flyers XC Chat (member chat)

  • Flyers XC Info (keep it quiet for important announcements)

First of all, we are not the enduro team. We do however ride hard and challenging trails and work on skills. Many of our athletes participate in both teams. More info about the Flyers Enduro team can be found on their website, flyersenduro.com.

Registration!

Be sure to register using our registration form.

PURPOSE 

We’re passionate about getting kids outside and experiencing the joy of cycling. Our goal is to foster a lifelong love of the sport while building essential skills like teamwork, discipline, and resilience.

What makes Flyers XC special?

• Strong Community: Our riders form lasting friendships and support each other throughout the season.

• Skill Development: We focus on progression, from beginner to advanced.

• Affordable Fun: Our club is free, thanks to generous sponsors.

• Team Spirit: Represent our club and sponsors with a stylish team jersey.

Let's get your kids riding!

We are still seeking sponsors for 2026. Please email Adam Clark at info@lakemountainflyers.com

REQUIREMENTS

Commitment is Key

To ensure a successful season for everyone, we ask that you commit to attending at least half of our scheduled rides. Our rides typically occur once per week in the winter and 1-2 times per week during spring and leading into NICA season. During the summer we’ll go on adventure rides on some Saturdays.

Ages

We are allowing 7-12th graders for the 2026 season. For younger athletes join the Jr. Flyers.

We need your help!

Your involvement as a parent leader is crucial to the success of our club. We encourage you to join us on rides and help lead groups as often as possible. If you’re unable to ride, please consider volunteering for events like parties, prize distributions, race support, or planning committees.

EQUIPMENT

To ensure a safe and enjoyable riding experience, please make sure you have the following:

Essential Gear:

• Bike: Your bike should be in good working condition with properly inflated tires, functioning brakes, and smooth shifting. If you need assistance with bike selection or maintenance, reach out to Utah Mountain Biking or Adam and Randall.

• Helmet: A properly fitting helmet is non-negotiable. It should sit level on your head, covering your forehead. Replace your helmet every 5 years to maintain its protective properties.

• Hydration: Bring a water bottle or Camelbak filled with water. Avoid disposable water bottles, as they can easily fall out on the trail.

Recommended Gear:

• Bike Gloves: Protect your hands in case of a fall.

• Sunglasses: Shield your eyes from debris and sun glare.

• Tubeless Repair Kit: A hand pump or CO2 inflator with plugs is recommended for tubeless tires.

• Flat Tire Kit: Carry a spare tube and tire levers.

• Footwear: Close-toed shoes are required. Mountain bike-specific shoes can improve grip and comfort, but regular athletic shoes are fine for beginners.

• Team Jersey: We recommend all athletes purchase the 2026 kit. The store will be opening soon. Optional gear like shorts, bibs, socks, and hoodies can be purchased from the team store.

By having the right gear, you’ll be well-prepared to enjoy the trails and make the most of your riding experience.

GENERAL INFO

Parent Ride Leaders: We rely on parents to ride with the ability groups! Parents are asked to ride with us as often as they are able to share the load. You do not have to go to every ride but please be mindful of other parents and try to make it to rides when you are able. You do not need to ride with the same group your child rides in (some kids work better without their own parents- go figure). I understand that it is difficult to make it to every ride, but if we don’t have enough leaders for an ability group, we will have to cancel the ride. If you aren’t able to ride, but your kids are planning on riding- please don’t drop and leave. Stay there until they are checked in and you know that there is enough parent help for their group(s). Once the group leaves on their ride, you can leave. A ride leader’s main job is to make sure that the groups are safe, that they ride trails which are within their ability, and that no riders are lost on the trail. Ride leaders  will ensure that there is a ride leader at the front and rear of the group and that no riders miss a turn resulting in a lost rider. (wait at intersections and turns to make sure your group sticks together).

*In addition to a preseason parent meeting, we will have a ride leader training for all parents at the beginning of the season*

NO Non-registered riders!  Younger/Older siblings, neighbors, friends etc. will not be able to ride with us. Please don’t ask. Parents/guardians are welcome and encouraged to ride with us, but they will need to sign a waiver (find this link on the registration form and fill one out for every athlete/parent/grandparent who intends on riding with us this season).

Ability Groups:  When registering, you will self-select your child’s ability group. The ability groups are a way for us to ensure that the riders stay on trails that they are comfortable with, that they don’t feel pressured to go faster than they are capable, and ensure that they aren’t bored in a group which is slower than their ability. WE WILL MAKE CHANGES TO THE ABILITY GROUPS AFTER THE FIRST FEW RIDES TO ENSURE EACH ATHLETE IS IN A GROUP THAT FITS THEM. 

Calendar: Events will be posted on the Google Calendar found here. You will need to download the calendar. Please note that rides have not been added to the calendar yet, and you may need to download the calendar closer to when the season begins. For any last minute cancellations, this information will be broadcast on our #coach slack channel. PRO TIP– DOWNLOAD SLACK ON YOUR PHONE SO YOU RECEIVE INSTANT UPDATES!

*Ride Schedule: Every other Saturday around 10am during the winter, Wednesday ~5:15 - ~6:45 in the spring (starting in March). You will need to be on your bikes, checked into your assigned groups and ready to roll before the start time. Plan to arrive at the trailhead 15 minutes before the scheduled start time.

Ride Locations:  Ride locations will be listed on the Google calendar. We mostly ride Eagle Mountain, Corner Canyon, AF Canyon, etc. Again, please be signed in and ready to ride 15 minutes before the scheduled departure time. It is also very helpful for parents to stand with the group that they intend to ride with, so that we can see how many leaders we have per group. 

Trailforks:  DOWNLOAD ON YOUR PHONE!!! This is a must have on the rides so that you can have the maps of every trail system that we ride. 

Slack:  All communications will be sent out via Slack. Once your application is accepted, you will receive a link to join our Slack channel. It is a requirement that you download the app onto your phone so that you can receive instant updates. I encourage parents to communicate with other parents to plan carpools, source equipment needs, post bikes for sale, pass on used, outgrown uniforms and gear etc.

Photos: We have a shared Google Photos file which will be used throughout the season. Please add any photos from rides/events that you would like to share with the group.

Waiver: Everyone who intends to ride with us will need to sign a waiver. This will be completed during the application process. If you fail to sign a waiver for any of your athletes, their application will be considered incomplete and they will not be added to the team. A waiver will need to be signed by a parent or legal guardian for every athlete or parent who intends on riding with us. 

AT THE RIDE 

Meeting: Please arrive at the scheduled ride location 15 minutes before the start of the ride and be checked in and ready to roll. This allows you to get bikes ready, get gear on, and get into your ability groups. There will be colored signs that match the rider’s ability group. On each sign there is a clipboard with a roster on it. Group Leaders will SIGN IN AND OUT at every ride! If you arrive late: DO NOT SEND YOUR ATHLETES OUT TO RIDE UNLESS THEIR GROUP IS STILL THERE, AND THEY ARE SIGNED IN. 

Attendance is taken at every ride. Athletes who do not attend at least 10 rides throughout the season will not be invited to return the following season. IF YOU DON’T THINK YOU’LL MAKE IT TO 10 RIDES THEN DO NOT TAKE A SPOT FROM SOMEONE WHO WANTS TO RIDE WITH the Flyers!

On the trail In case of an emergency: If it is a true emergency, use your best judgment and call 911 if needed. If it is not an emergency; stay calm, take care of immediate needs, make sure that there is no immediate danger for the injured rider or for the rest of the group (i.e. get them to the side of the trail so they aren’t hit by other riders). Make sure the coach for the group is informed, and call the riders' parents. Contact information for parents will be listed on the roster for each of the ability groups.

Keep track of your riders: Make sure to get a count of riders before you leave for the ride, during (at crossroads), and after. Most importantly there NEEDS to be a ride leader in front and a ride leader in back. Please do not allow youth riders to take the lead on trails or go behind.

Weather cancellation: I’ve tried, and I still can’t seem to control the weather, or predict it for that matter. Rides will be posted on Google Calendar, but if we get to those dates and the trails are not clear, then we will postpone the start of our outdoor season. 

Instagram: follow our instagram page so we can maintain our awesome community support and sponsorships. If you post, remember to tag us so we can share your post and create more visibility for our sponsors.

Ride Challenges: To encourage your riders to get on their bikes more often, we do monthly challenges. Each month during the season, riders who complete that month’s challenge will be entered into a drawing for a prize (TBD).

Races: We will have a team tent at some of the I-Cup races (TBD). This will be an area for riders to hang out and receive support. Parents are encouraged to join us either in the races, or as support! Team awards are given at the end of season for cumulative points. A discount code will be provided for the team.

Ride for FUN: We are here to ride for FUN! It is okay to be competitive, and to encourage the riders to push themselves, but please remember to be kind. No one likes to be yelled at. No one likes to feel like their performance is substandard, so please be careful with what you say, and remember to be encouraging, and to give positive feedback along with pointers on how to improve. 

NICA: Founded in 2009, The National Interscholastic Cycling Association (NICA) develops interscholastic mountain biking programs for student-athletes across the United States. The Utah High School Cycling League, a 501(c)3 nonprofit, was organized in 2011 and is an affiliate league of the National Interscholastic Cycling Association. They facilitate the development of interscholastic cycling teams/clubs for grades 7 – 12 and provide the education, training, licensing and insurance for coaches and volunteers. They also provide a high-quality mountain bike racing experience that emphasizes the value of each participant (no one is benched), camaraderie among peers, a positive sporting behavior and the cultivation of health over competition. For 6th graders interested in racing with their junior high/high school team here are the links to the nearby teams. Please note that the Utah league is a fall league, so most teams will have enrollments beginning in the spring to early summer. Watch for these updates from your local team. For other teams, please see utahmtb.org.

Orem Youth Cycling Association:

http://www.oremyouthcycling.com

Timpanogos: https://www.facebook.com/TimpanogosTWolfMountainBiking/

Provo/Timpview Composite: https://www.facebook.com/ProvoMTB/

American Fork:

https://www.cavemenmtb.com

Lehi:

http://www.lehimtb.com

Pleasant Grove: https://www.facebook.com/PGBikingVikings/

Corner Canyon:

http://www.cchsmtb.com

Lone Peak: https://www.facebook.com/LonePeakKnightRiders/

Skyridge:

http://www.skyridgemtb.com

Cedar Valley:

https://www.cedarvalleymtb.com

Below you will see 2 distinct registration/application forms. The first is registration for the XC Club team and the second is an application for the XC Development team. YOU DO NOT NEED TO FILL OUT BOTH! Please fill out one that you think will best server your child. In short, the club team is a great place to have fun, learn some skills, and enjoy riding with others. The development team is a bit more serious with all those benefits but also training plans, more riding, expectations to race (I-CUP, Weekly), and purchase a racing kit. Besides the kit, participation in the development team is free (including training plans).

The teams are available for kids in grades 7-12 in the fall of 2025.

2025 XC Club Team Registration

2025 XC Development Team Application

After applications/registrations have been filled we will contact you and schedule a kickoff meeting the first week of January.

We’re passionate about getting kids outside and experiencing the joy of cycling. Our goal is to foster a lifelong love of the sport while building essential skills like teamwork, discipline, and resilience.

What makes Flyers XC special?

• Strong Community: Our riders form lasting friendships and support each other throughout the season.

• Skill Development: We focus on progression, from beginner to advanced.

• Affordable Fun: Our club is free, thanks to generous sponsors.

• Team Spirit: Represent our club and sponsors with a stylish team jersey.

Let's get your kids riding!

We are still seeking sponsors for 2025. Please email Adam Clark at info@lakemountainflyers.com

REQUIREMENTS

Commitment is Key

To ensure a successful season for everyone, we ask that you commit to attending at least half of our scheduled rides. Our rides typically occur 1-2 times per week during the winter and spring, and once per week during the summer, weather permitting.

Ages

We are allowing 7-12th graders for the 2025 season. For younger athletes join the Jr. Flyers.

We need your help!

Your involvement as a parent leader is crucial to the success of our club. We encourage you to join us on rides and help lead groups as often as possible. If you’re unable to ride, please consider volunteering for events like parties, prize distributions, race support, or planning committees.

EQUIPMENT

To ensure a safe and enjoyable riding experience, please make sure you have the following:

Essential Gear:

• Bike: Your bike should be in good working condition with properly inflated tires, functioning brakes, and smooth shifting. If you need assistance with bike selection or maintenance, reach out to Utah Mountain Biking or Adam and Randall.

• Helmet: A properly fitting helmet is non-negotiable. It should sit level on your head, covering your forehead. Replace your helmet every 5 years to maintain its protective properties.

• Hydration: Bring a water bottle or Camelbak filled with water. Avoid disposable water bottles, as they can easily fall out on the trail.

Recommended Gear:

• Bike Gloves: Protect your hands in case of a fall.

• Sunglasses: Shield your eyes from debris and sun glare.

• Tubeless Repair Kit: A hand pump or CO2 inflator with plugs is recommended for tubeless tires.

• Flat Tire Kit: Carry a spare tube and tire levers.

• Footwear: Close-toed shoes are required. Mountain bike-specific shoes can improve grip and comfort, but regular athletic shoes are fine for beginners.

• Team Jersey: All development club athletes must purchase the 2025 kit. Optional gear like shorts, bibs, socks, and hoodies can be purchased from the team store.

By having the right gear, you’ll be well-prepared to enjoy the trails and make the most of your riding experience.

GENERAL INFO

Parent Ride Leaders: We rely on parents to ride with the ability groups! Parents are asked to ride with us as often as they are able to share the load. You do not have to go to every ride but please be mindful of other parents and try to make it to rides when you are able. You do not need to ride with the same group your child rides in (some kids work better without their own parents- go figure). I understand that it is difficult to make it to every ride, but if we don’t have enough leaders for an ability group, we will have to cancel the ride. If you aren’t able to ride, but your kids are planning on riding- please don’t drop and leave. Stay there until they are checked in and you know that there is enough parent help for their group(s). Once the group leaves on their ride, you can leave. A ride leader’s main job is to make sure that the groups are safe, that they ride trails which are within their ability, and that no riders are lost on the trail. Ride leaders  will ensure that there is a ride leader at the front and rear of the group and that no riders miss a turn resulting in a lost rider. (wait at intersections and turns to make sure your group sticks together).

*In addition to a preseason parent meeting, we will have a ride leader training for all parents at the beginning of the season*

NO Non-registered riders!  Younger/Older siblings, neighbors, friends etc. will not be able to ride with us. Please don’t ask. Parents/guardians are welcome and encouraged to ride with us, but they will need to sign a waiver (find this link on the registration form and fill one out for every athlete/parent/grandparent who intends on riding with us this season).

Ability Groups:  When registering, you will self-select your child’s ability group. The ability groups are a way for us to ensure that the riders stay on trails that they are comfortable with, that they don’t feel pressured to go faster than they are capable, and ensure that they aren’t bored in a group which is slower than their ability. WE WILL MAKE CHANGES TO THE ABILITY GROUPS AFTER THE FIRST FEW RIDES TO ENSURE EACH ATHLETE IS IN A GROUP THAT FITS THEM. 

Calendar: Events will be posted on the Google Calendar found here. You will need to download the calendar. Please note that rides have not been added to the calendar yet, and you may need to download the calendar closer to when the season begins. For any last minute cancellations, this information will be broadcast on our #coach slack channel. PRO TIP– DOWNLOAD SLACK ON YOUR PHONE SO YOU RECEIVE INSTANT UPDATES!

*Ride Schedule: Saturday around 10am during the winter, Mon/Thurs ~5:15 - ~6:45 in the spring. You will need to be on your bikes, checked into your assigned groups and ready to roll before the start time. Plan to arrive at the trailhead 15 minutes before the scheduled start time. Rides will begin when the trails are consistently clear in the spring, with our first event being team photos and our skills day with the Development team. Our last event and end of season party will be held on the Wednesday following Labor Day, so mark your calendars now! 

Ride Locations:  Ride locations will be listed on the Google calendar. We mostly ride Eagle Mountain, Corner Canyon, AF Canyon, etc. Again, please be signed in and ready to ride 15 minutes before the scheduled departure time. It is also very helpful for parents to stand with the group that they intend to ride with, so that we can see how many leaders we have per group. 

Trailforks:  DOWNLOAD ON YOUR PHONE!!! This is a must have on the rides so that you can have the maps of every trail system that we ride. 

Slack:  All communications will be sent out via Slack. Once your application is accepted, you will receive a link to join our Slack channel. It is a requirement that you download the app onto your phone so that you can receive instant updates. I encourage parents to communicate with other parents to plan carpools, source equipment needs, post bikes for sale, pass on used, outgrown uniforms and gear etc.

Photos: We have a shared Google Photos file which will be used throughout the season. Please add any photos from rides/events that you would like to share with the group.

Waiver: Everyone who intends to ride with us will need to sign a waiver. This will be completed during the application process. If you fail to sign a waiver for any of your athletes, their application will be considered incomplete and they will not be added to the team. A waiver will need to be signed by a parent or legal guardian for every athlete or parent who intends on riding with us. 

AT THE RIDE 

Meeting: Please arrive at the scheduled ride location 15 minutes before the start of the ride and be checked in and ready to roll. This allows you to get bikes ready, get gear on, and get into your ability groups. There will be colored signs that match the rider’s ability group. On each sign there is a clipboard with a roster on it. Group Leaders will SIGN IN AND OUT at every ride! If you arrive late: DO NOT SEND YOUR ATHLETES OUT TO RIDE UNLESS THEIR GROUP IS STILL THERE, AND THEY ARE SIGNED IN. 

Attendance is taken at every ride. Athletes who do not attend at least 10 rides throughout the season will not be invited to return the following season. IF YOU DON’T THINK YOU’LL MAKE IT TO 10 RIDES THEN DO NOT TAKE A SPOT FROM SOMEONE WHO WANTS TO RIDE WITH the Flyers!

On the trail In case of an emergency: If it is a true emergency, use your best judgment and call 911 if needed. If it is not an emergency; stay calm, take care of immediate needs, make sure that there is no immediate danger for the injured rider or for the rest of the group (i.e. get them to the side of the trail so they aren’t hit by other riders). Make sure the coach for the group is informed, and call the riders' parents. Contact information for parents will be listed on the roster for each of the ability groups.

Keep track of your riders: Make sure to get a count of riders before you leave for the ride, during (at crossroads), and after. Most importantly there NEEDS to be a ride leader in front and a ride leader in back. Please do not allow youth riders to take the lead on trails or go behind.

Weather cancellation: I’ve tried, and I still can’t seem to control the weather, or predict it for that matter. We won’t be able to ride in the spring until the trails are clear. Rides will be posted on Google Calendar, but if we get to those dates and the trails are not clear, then we will postpone the start of our outdoor season. 

Instagram: follow our instagram page so we can maintain our awesome community support and sponsorships. If you post, remember to tag us so we can share your post and create more visibility for our sponsors.

Ride Challenges: To encourage your riders to get on their bikes more often, we do monthly challenges. Each month during the season, riders who complete that month’s challenge will be entered into a drawing for a prize (TBD).

Races: We will have a team tent at some of the I-Cup races (TBD). This will be an area for riders to hang out and receive support. Parents are encouraged to join us either in the races, or as support! Team awards are given at the end of season for cumulative points. A discount code will be provided for the team.

Ride for FUN: We are here to ride for FUN! It is okay to be competitive, and to encourage the riders to push themselves, but please remember to be kind. No one likes to be yelled at. No one likes to feel like their performance is substandard, so please be careful with what you say, and remember to be encouraging, and to give positive feedback along with pointers on how to improve. 

NICA: Founded in 2009, The National Interscholastic Cycling Association (NICA) develops interscholastic mountain biking programs for student-athletes across the United States. The Utah High School Cycling League, a 501(c)3 nonprofit, was organized in 2011 and is an affiliate league of the National Interscholastic Cycling Association. They facilitate the development of interscholastic cycling teams/clubs for grades 7 – 12 and provide the education, training, licensing and insurance for coaches and volunteers. They also provide a high-quality mountain bike racing experience that emphasizes the value of each participant (no one is benched), camaraderie among peers, a positive sporting behavior and the cultivation of health over competition. For 6th graders interested in racing with their junior high/high school team here are the links to the nearby teams. Please note that the Utah league is a fall league, so most teams will have enrollments beginning in the spring to early summer. Watch for these updates from your local team. For other teams, please see utahmtb.org.

Orem Youth Cycling Association:

http://www.oremyouthcycling.com

Timpanogos: https://www.facebook.com/TimpanogosTWolfMountainBiking/

Provo/Timpview Composite: https://www.facebook.com/ProvoMTB/

American Fork:

https://www.cavemenmtb.com

Lehi:

http://www.lehimtb.com

Pleasant Grove: https://www.facebook.com/PGBikingVikings/

Corner Canyon:

http://www.cchsmtb.com

Lone Peak: https://www.facebook.com/LonePeakKnightRiders/

Skyridge:

http://www.skyridgemtb.com

Cedar Valley:

https://www.cedarvalleymtb.com

We’re passionate about getting kids outside and experiencing the joy of cycling. Our goal is to foster a lifelong love of the sport while building essential skills like teamwork, discipline, and resilience.

What makes Flyers XC special?

• Strong Community: Our riders form lasting friendships and support each other throughout the season.

• Skill Development: We focus on progression, from beginner to advanced.

• Affordable Fun: Our club is free, thanks to generous sponsors.

• Team Spirit: Represent our club and sponsors with a stylish team jersey.

Let's get your kids riding!

We are still seeking sponsors for 2025. Please email Adam Clark at info@lakemountainflyers.com

REQUIREMENTS

Commitment is Key

To ensure a successful season for everyone, we ask that you commit to attending at least half of our scheduled rides. Our rides typically occur 1-2 times per week during the winter and spring, and once per week during the summer, weather permitting.

Ages

We are allowing 7-12th graders for the 2025 season. For younger athletes join the Jr. Flyers.

We need your help!

Your involvement as a parent leader is crucial to the success of our club. We encourage you to join us on rides and help lead groups as often as possible. If you’re unable to ride, please consider volunteering for events like parties, prize distributions, race support, or planning committees.

EQUIPMENT

ATo ensure a safe and enjoyable riding experience, please make sure you have the following:

Essential Gear:

• Bike: Your bike should be in good working condition with properly inflated tires, functioning brakes, and smooth shifting. If you need assistance with bike selection or maintenance, reach out to Utah Mountain Biking or Adam and Randall.

• Helmet: A properly fitting helmet is non-negotiable. It should sit level on your head, covering your forehead. Replace your helmet every 5 years to maintain its protective properties.

• Hydration: Bring a water bottle or Camelbak filled with water. Avoid disposable water bottles, as they can easily fall out on the trail.

Recommended Gear:

• Bike Gloves: Protect your hands in case of a fall.

• Sunglasses: Shield your eyes from debris and sun glare.

• Tubeless Repair Kit: A hand pump or CO2 inflator with plugs is recommended for tubeless tires.

• Flat Tire Kit: Carry a spare tube and tire levers.

• Footwear: Close-toed shoes are required. Mountain bike-specific shoes can improve grip and comfort, but regular athletic shoes are fine for beginners.

• Team Jersey: All development club athletes must purchase the 2025 kit. Optional gear like shorts, bibs, socks, and hoodies can be purchased from the team store.

By having the right gear, you’ll be well-prepared to enjoy the trails and make the most of your riding experience.

GENERAL INFO

Parent Ride Leaders: We rely on parents to ride with the ability groups! Parents are asked to ride with us as often as they are able to share the load. You do not have to go to every ride but please be mindful of other parents and try to make it to rides when you are able. You do not need to ride with the same group your child rides in (some kids work better without their own parents- go figure). I understand that it is difficult to make it to every ride, but if we don’t have enough leaders for an ability group, we will have to cancel the ride. If you aren’t able to ride, but your kids are planning on riding- please don’t drop and leave. Stay there until they are checked in and you know that there is enough parent help for their group(s). Once the group leaves on their ride, you can leave. A ride leader’s main job is to make sure that the groups are safe, that they ride trails which are within their ability, and that no riders are lost on the trail. Ride leaders  will ensure that there is a ride leader at the front and rear of the group and that no riders miss a turn resulting in a lost rider. (wait at intersections and turns to make sure your group sticks together).

*In addition to a preseason parent meeting, we will have a ride leader training for all parents at the beginning of the season*

NO Non-registered riders!  Younger/Older siblings, neighbors, friends etc. will not be able to ride with us. Please don’t ask. Parents/guardians are welcome and encouraged to ride with us, but they will need to sign a waiver (find this link on the registration form and fill one out for every athlete/parent/grandparent who intends on riding with us this season).

Ability Groups:  When registering, you will self-select your child’s ability group. The ability groups are a way for us to ensure that the riders stay on trails that they are comfortable with, that they don’t feel pressured to go faster than they are capable, and ensure that they aren’t bored in a group which is slower than their ability. WE WILL MAKE CHANGES TO THE ABILITY GROUPS AFTER THE FIRST FEW RIDES TO ENSURE EACH ATHLETE IS IN A GROUP THAT FITS THEM. 

Calendar: Events will be posted on the Google Calendar found here. You will need to download the calendar. Please note that rides have not been added to the calendar yet, and you may need to download the calendar closer to when the season begins. For any last minute cancellations, this information will be broadcast on our #coach slack channel. PRO TIP– DOWNLOAD SLACK ON YOUR PHONE SO YOU RECEIVE INSTANT UPDATES!

*Ride Schedule: Saturday around 10am during the winter, Mon/Thurs ~5:15 - ~6:45 in the spring. You will need to be on your bikes, checked into your assigned groups and ready to roll before the start time. Plan to arrive at the trailhead 15 minutes before the scheduled start time. Rides will begin when the trails are consistently clear in the spring, with our first event being team photos and our skills day with the Development team. Our last event and end of season party will be held on the Wednesday following Labor Day, so mark your calendars now! 

Ride Locations:  Ride locations will be listed on the Google calendar. We mostly ride Eagle Mountain, Corner Canyon, AF Canyon, etc. Again, please be signed in and ready to ride 15 minutes before the scheduled departure time. It is also very helpful for parents to stand with the group that they intend to ride with, so that we can see how many leaders we have per group. 

Trailforks:  DOWNLOAD ON YOUR PHONE!!! This is a must have on the rides so that you can have the maps of every trail system that we ride. 

Slack:  All communications will be sent out via Slack. Once your application is accepted, you will receive a link to join our Slack channel. It is a requirement that you download the app onto your phone so that you can receive instant updates. I encourage parents to communicate with other parents to plan carpools, source equipment needs, post bikes for sale, pass on used, outgrown uniforms and gear etc.

Photos: We have a shared Google Photos file which will be used throughout the season. Please add any photos from rides/events that you would like to share with the group.

Waiver: Everyone who intends to ride with us will need to sign a waiver. This will be completed during the application process. If you fail to sign a waiver for any of your athletes, their application will be considered incomplete and they will not be added to the team. A waiver will need to be signed by a parent or legal guardian for every athlete or parent who intends on riding with us. 

AT THE RIDE 

Meeting: Please arrive at the scheduled ride location 15 minutes before the start of the ride and be checked in and ready to roll. This allows you to get bikes ready, get gear on, and get into your ability groups. There will be colored signs that match the rider’s ability group. On each sign there is a clipboard with a roster on it. YOUR RIDER NEEDS TO SIGN IN AND OUT at every ride! If you arrive late: DO NOT SEND YOUR ATHLETES OUT TO RIDE UNLESS THEIR GROUP IS STILL THERE, AND THEY ARE SIGNED IN. 

Attendance is taken at every ride. Athletes who do not attend at least 10 rides throughout the season will not be invited to return the following season. IF YOU DON’T THINK YOU’LL MAKE IT TO 10 RIDES THEN DO NOT TAKE A SPOT FROM SOMEONE WHO WANTS TO RIDE WITH Flyers!

On the trail In case of an emergency: If it is a true emergency, use your best judgment and call 911 if needed. If it is not an emergency; stay calm, take care of immediate needs, make sure that there is no immediate danger for the injured rider or for the rest of the group (i.e. get them to the side of the trail so they aren’t hit by other riders). Make sure the coach for the group is informed, and call the riders' parents. Contact information for parents will be listed on the roster for each of the ability groups.

Keep track of your riders: Make sure to get a count of riders before you leave for the ride, during (at crossroads), and after. Most importantly there NEEDS to be a ride leader in front and a ride leader in back. Please do not allow youth riders to take the lead on trails or go behind.

Weather cancellation: I’ve tried, and I still can’t seem to control the weather, or predict it for that matter. We won’t be able to ride in the spring until the trails are clear. Rides will be posted on Google Calendar, but if we get to those dates and the trails are not clear, then we will postpone the start of our outdoor season. 

Instagram: follow our instagram page so we can maintain our awesome community support and sponsorships. If you post, remember to tag us so we can share your post and create more visibility for our sponsors.

Ride Challenges: To encourage your riders to get on their bikes more often, we do monthly challenges. Each month during the season, riders who complete that month’s challenge will be entered into a drawing for a prize (TBD).

Races: We will have a team tent at some of the I-Cup races (TBD). This will be an area for riders to hang out and receive support. Parents are encouraged to join us either in the races, or as support! Team awards are given at the end of season for cumulative points. A discount code will be provided for the team.

Ride for FUN: We are here to ride for FUN! It is okay to be competitive, and to encourage the riders to push themselves, but please remember to be kind. No one likes to be yelled at. No one likes to feel like their performance is substandard, so please be careful with what you say, and remember to be encouraging, and to give positive feedback along with pointers on how to improve. 

NICA: Founded in 2009, The National Interscholastic Cycling Association (NICA) develops interscholastic mountain biking programs for student-athletes across the United States. The Utah High School Cycling League, a 501(c)3 nonprofit, was organized in 2011 and is an affiliate league of the National Interscholastic Cycling Association. They facilitate the development of interscholastic cycling teams/clubs for grades 7 – 12 and provide the education, training, licensing and insurance for coaches and volunteers. They also provide a high-quality mountain bike racing experience that emphasizes the value of each participant (no one is benched), camaraderie among peers, a positive sporting behavior and the cultivation of health over competition. For 6th graders interested in racing with their junior high/high school team here are the links to the nearby teams. Please note that the Utah league is a fall league, so most teams will have enrollments beginning in the spring to early summer. Watch for these updates from your local team. For other teams, please see utahmtb.org.

Orem Youth Cycling Association:

http://www.oremyouthcycling.com

Timpanogos: https://www.facebook.com/TimpanogosTWolfMountainBiking/

Provo/Timpview Composite: https://www.facebook.com/ProvoMTB/

American Fork:

https://www.cavemenmtb.com

Lehi:

http://www.lehimtb.com

Pleasant Grove: https://www.facebook.com/PGBikingVikings/

Corner Canyon:

http://www.cchsmtb.com

Lone Peak: https://www.facebook.com/LonePeakKnightRiders/

Skyridge:

http://www.skyridgemtb.com

Cedar Valley:

https://www.cedarvalleymtb.com

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