What age range is the After School Program designed for?

The program is typically aimed at youth aged 8 to 14 who have basic bike skills and want to develop further.

Is prior mountain biking experience required?

Some basic bike handling comfort is recommended, but the program is designed to develop riders’ abilities progressively.

Are bikes provided or should participants bring their own?

Participants should bring their own mountain bike, properly sized and in good working order.

What happens if it rains or the weather is poor?

Sessions may be modified or rescheduled depending on weather conditions; safety is the priority.

Is equipment rental available at Highland Mountain Bike Park?

Yes, the park offers bike rentals and protective gear separately from the after-school program.

How are safety measures enforced during the program?

Coach-to-student ratios are low, and trained staff supervise all riding to ensure safe practice and lesson adherence.

After School Mountain Biking at Highland Mountain Bike Park

Situated in Northfield, New Hampshire, Highland Mountain Bike Park stands out as a leading destination for mountain biking enthusiasts of all ages. Known for its diverse terrain carved into granite ridges and spruce forests, it offers an ideal natural classroom for riders eager to sharpen their skills. The park's After School Program is a unique five-week experience tailored specifically for young riders, combining expert coaching with access to lift-serviced trails.

Over the course of these sessions, students benefit from small-group instruction focused on mastering foundational mountain biking skills. Coaches guide riders through controlled terrain dedicated to learning, before advancing to the park's broader network of trails. This structured progression ensures that participants gradually build confidence and technique in a supportive environment.

Highland Mountain Bike Park’s location in the rugged Connecticut River Valley offers scenic vistas framed by distinctive granite outcrops and a mixture of northern hardwood and conifer forests that add variety to every ride. The lift-serviced trails provide a wide range of difficulty, allowing riders to apply new skills immediately on flowing singletrack and technical descents.

What makes Highland’s After School Program stand apart is its comprehensive approach: beyond skill development, it integrates safety, trail etiquette, and environmental awareness. The staff’s expertise and commitment create a welcoming space where young riders can connect with the outdoors and enhance their abilities on quality terrain.

For families looking to introduce their kids to mountain biking in a structured, fun way, Highland’s program blends instruction with access to one of New England’s most respected bike parks. Situated just a short drive from the larger urban hub of Concord, NH, Highland Mountain Bike Park serves as a gateway to year-round mountain biking adventures amid the varied landscapes that define the region.

About Highland Mountain Bike Park

Highland Mountain Bike Park in Northfield, New Hampshire is a dedicated lift-accessed mountain biking facility offering coaching programs, kids camps, clinics, races, and lift-served riding. The park runs a broad range of structured experiences including Ayr Academy adult camps, weekend jump clinics, kids camp sessions, multi-pack options for families, after-school programs, and race-day entries. Coaching and training are delivered in small-group formats with experienced coaches who focus on core skills such as Pumping, Cornering, and Jumps, along with braking, balance, and trail safety. Many programs include full park access, bike rentals where noted, and targeted on-bike instruction like Park Ready sessions and one-hour skill clinics.

Highland manages seasonal scheduling and limits spots for select events; race registrations operate on a first-come, first-served basis and close at 1pm on race day or when capacity is reached. Camp and clinic formats often provide structured meal options and facility access as specified in program descriptions. For families, Kids Camp multi-packs provide flexible Saturday sessions across the season. Specialty offerings include coach retreats and multi-day adult camps that combine classroom and on-trail coaching components.

All programming emphasizes rider progression, safety, and small-group attention. Highland Mountain Bike Park’s Northfield location and lift-access infrastructure support a range of abilities from beginners using the Find Your Ride™ package to competitive racers registering single race entries. Prospective participants should review individual trip details for age limits, equipment needs, and registration policies before booking. Staff maintain park facilities and coordinate lift operations during scheduled riding days for safe, organized experiences and operations.