Summary
Ever wondered what it’s like to try downhill mountain biking with kids? We headed to Bolton Valley to give it a try. From gearing up to conquering those first switchbacks, it was a ride to remember.
Downhill mountain biking can sound intimidating—especially with kids. But at Bolton Valley, it was surprisingly approachable (and fun!) thanks to a private beginner lesson, easy gear rentals, and trails designed to help new riders build confidence. My son and I decided to give it a try, and it turned into one of our favorite summer adventures.
Getting Started: Gear + Rentals
While our family bikes often, we were hardly equipped to take on downhill mountain biking with our own gear. When we arrives at Bolton, we headed to rental shop first to get full-suspension bikes, pads and helmets. We opted for the full-face helmet for our first time and a full protective top with a spine shield and shoulder and elbow pads for my son. I donned elbow pads and knee and shinguards, too. The staff was super helpful at finding us the right sizes and made sure everything felt comfortable and safe before we rolled out.
Parent Tip: If you’re new to mountain biking, consider lightweight or padded gloves for comfort. Pads are also highly recommended—they add confidence and prevent small scrapes from turning into big setbacks.
The Beginner Lesson: Building Confidence
We kicked off our adventure with a private beginner lesson, which was worth every minute. At first I thought we would have been fine without one, but it turned out to be far more beneficial than I could have imagined.
Our instructor broke everything down into simple steps—how to stand on the pedals when coasting downhill, where, when and how to our shift weight, and the best way to control speed. Practicing on flat terrain allowed us to get comfortable on the bikes before heading to the lift. We also went uphill a bit to practice how to enter and exit berms and where to look to follow through. We appreciated having an expert guide us through those first wobbly moments.
Parent Tip: Even if you’re an experienced rider, sign up for the family lesson. It sets kids up for success and helps parents coach more effectively on the trail.
First Run Down the Mountain
After a short snack session, we loaded our bikes onto the lift (which was a lesson itself). It was time for our first downhill trail. Bolton has a nice, long beginner-level trail that’s perfect for first-timers. It winds gently down the mountain with wide turns and rolling features that are more fun than scary.
We whooped our way down, and around, through forests, over bridges and around fun turns, taking breaks for water and to take in the views. There were a few junction points where we got to watch experienced groups of riders whizz by getting air. It was fun to be so close to the action. My son couldn’t stop grinning, and by the bottom, he was already asking to go again.
Snack Tip: Bring easy, packable snacks—trail mix, granola bars, or fruit leathers. Energy dips with kids can turn excitement into frustration fast.
Celebrating with Pizza
After our lesson and first long run down the mountain, it was time for lunch. Luckily, Bolton had two awesome options open for food in the base area. Bolton’s Fireside Flatbread turned up the heat at noon and we got to indulge in one of our favorite pizza places in Vermont. Paired with root beer for the kids and a nice local brew for mom, it was a delight. Alternatively, Miso Toh Kome, the Japanese food cart, offered up delicious onigiri (rice balls), miso soup and Japanese coffee. (This is a favorite spot of ours in the winter!)
We ate and chilled while dad took a solo ride himself, then rotated riders throughout the afternoon. Those not riding simply enjoyed the beautiful day on the mountain soaking up the sun. The kids also enjoyed the on-mountain playground and exploring the woods.
Why Families Will Love It
- Fun for the whole family. Our five-year-old wasn’t ready for downhill biking yet, but had a blast spending the day using his strider in the base area and playing on the playground and in the woods.
- Safe and welcoming atmosphere: Staff are used to working with all levels and ages of riders and made the experience easy and fun.
- All-in-one experience: Rentals, lessons, trails, and food options are all right at the base area.
- Confidence-boosting: Kids finish feeling proud of themselves (and so do parents!).
To Mountain Bike or Not to Mountain Bike
If you’ve ever thought downhill mountain biking was only for experts, think again. Bolton Valley makes it accessible, fun, and totally doable for families. Whether you’re locals looking to try something new or visiting Vermont for warm weather adventures, this is one to add to your list.
Sarah Wojcik is the founder of All Mountains Mamas, starting it in 2012. Becoming a mother in 2017, she grasped the opportunity to share her passion of skiing and snowboarding with families across the U.S. and came on as a contributor and manager. Formerly the Director or Marketing and Communications for Ski Vermont, and currently the creative editor and digital partnership director at Ski Area Management magazine, she writes with great knowledge of the ski industry in Vermont and beyond, and from the point of view of a new mother working to get back out on the slopes with two kids in tow. She is also the proud owner of Vermont’s #1 family fun resource, FindandGoSeek.net.