What ages and skill levels fit this program?

Designed for ages 9–13+ at an advanced shredder/freeride level; coaches will assess riders on Day 1 to confirm group fit.

Where and when do sessions meet?

Weekly Saturdays 9:00 AM–12:00 PM, rotating: Crawford (Myra-Bellevue), Smith Creek, and Gillard; weekly emails confirm exact parking and check-in points.

Is full-face mandatory?

A properly fitted helmet is mandatory; a full-face helmet is strongly recommended for Gillard and freeride sections for added safety.

What happens if minimum numbers aren’t met?

Minimum participation is three riders; if the session cancels due to low enrollment, you’ll receive a refund or an offered alternative session.

Do I need a specific bike setup?

Hydraulic disc brakes, a functioning multi-speed drivetrain, and front/rear suspension are mandatory for safety on advanced freeride trails.

Can my rider join the enduro race add-on?

Yes—there’s an optional Cranksgiving Enduro add-on with a Saturday course preview and coach support on race day; indicate interest during signup for ticket coordination.

Okanagan Fall Shredder and Freeride Series for Youth Mountain Bikers

Kelowna, British Columbia’s late-season mountain bike scene tightens up in September with the Fall Shredder & Freeride Series, a focused four-week coaching program that pushes advanced young riders across three of the Central Okanagan’s most demanding trail networks. Meeting at Myra-Bellevue (Crawford) and rotating through Smith Creek and Gillard, the program blends jump-line practice, technical drops, and enduro-style stage racing prep under the instruction of School of MTB coaches. Trails here are defined by hard-packed singletrack, exposed rocky benches, root-strewn switchbacks, and steep pitch sections that reward precise line choice. Riders will find varied geology and vegetation typical of the Okanagan: open Ponderosa and mixed conifer stands, scrubby understory, and occasional views down toward Okanagan Lake and valley benchlands that slope toward the water. Key features for this series include Crawford’s technical north-facing chutes, Smith Creek’s tight rock shelves and flow connectors, and Gillard’s freeride jumps and drop lines that demand controlled airtime and braking finesse. The series is designed for ages 9–13+ who have already mastered intermediate skills and are ready to learn professional techniques: cornering at speed, effective body position for drops, airtime control, and race-specific pacing. Small group sizes (six riders) mean high coach-to-rider attention, immediate feedback on line choice, and hands-on drills during each three-hour Saturday session. Riders can opt in for a race weekend add-on with a course preview and coach support for the Cranksgiving Enduro, making this both a skills clinic and a real-event primer. Safety standards are strict: hydraulic disc brakes, front and rear suspension, a properly fitted helmet (full-face recommended for Gillard), and spare parts are mandatory. Sessions run rain or shine unless conditions are unsafe. Attendance across all four core sessions is advised because each day builds on previous technical proficiencies. This program is a standout in the Kelowna area because it pairs elite coaching with local terrain variety: the networks used are within short drives of each other yet offer distinct technical challenges that accelerate learning. It’s an efficient way for young riders to move from controlled practice to confident race performance in a single fall block. Visitors should respect trail stewardship and the fact that these routes traverse the traditional territory of the Syilx (Okanagan) people. By riding responsibly, carrying out trash, and following volunteer trail ethics, participants help keep these trails open and sustainable for future seasons. Parents receive weekly emails confirming the exact parking lot and check-in details for Myra-Bellevue (Crawford) before each session. Coaches are certified and use a structured progression, assessing riders on Day 1 to ensure safety and appropriate group placement. Minimum group size is three; the camp runs when the number threshold is met, and refunds or alternative sessions are provided if cancelled.

About School of MTB

School of MTB is a Kelowna, British Columbia mountain biking school offering targeted instruction and guided sessions for riders of varying abilities. The company provides a range of experiences including Private lesson/Camp, Private Intro to Mountain Biking, Personalized Private Lessons, and Private Group Sessions. Each offering is designed to build skills, confidence, and enjoyment on local trails.

The Private Intro to Mountain Biking session covers bike setup, control, and braking with expert guidance before riding a scenic trail—an approachable option for beginners seeking a relaxed first descent. Personalized Private Lessons focus on rapid skill development through tailored coaching, video feedback, and confidence-building drills to help riders tackle technical features safely. Private Group Sessions adapt coaching to a group's skill level, providing shared instruction, personalized feedback, and opportunities to develop a common riding language. Private lesson/Camp blends exploration and social connection in lively group adventures crafted around participants’ interests.

All programs emphasize personalized instruction and on-trail coaching. Sessions are customized to individual goals and group needs, with experienced instructors delivering guided practice and targeted feedback. The School of MTB operates from Kelowna and uses local trails to teach real-world riding techniques and trailcraft.

Booking information, session length, prices, and availability are provided directly by the School of MTB. Prospective participants should contact School of MTB in Kelowna for current schedules, equipment requirements, and booking details. Instruction emphasizes safe riding techniques, progressive skill building, and clear on-trail communication, suited to beginners through more experienced riders seeking focused coaching and improvement every season.