Santa Barbara has to be some kind of geographical anomaly. A south facing bay surrounded by islands really protects it from any storms that might keep me off my bike. What’s even better is the 3000 foot mountains slammed so close to the beach, that on certain rides I feel like I throw a rock to the ocean. Santa Barbara mountain biking can best be described as “trail” or “all mountain” style riding with long climbs, and rocky descents mixed with loose, soft dirt. You don’t have to leave town to be on some really fun and challenging bike trails. But back in town there is tons of open space and parks for the beginner to explore and hone their mountain biking skills. Riding a bike on a bluff overlooking the ocean can be an awesome afternoon for about anyone. A town that begs you to be outside is often overlooked as a mountain bike destination, but any cyclist would regret not riding in SB, once they saw the offerings. Ride Santa Barbara.