Mountain biking in nature: what should I pay attention to?

Respect for nature

Mountain biking is a great way to explore the outdoors and enjoy adventure. The cycling and mountain biking trails in our regions offer a wide range of options, from flat routes to challenging off-road trails. However, to ensure we can continue to enjoy this natural beauty for years to come, it’s important to understand what is and isn’t allowed when it comes to mountain biking in nature. These guidelines will help you pursue your passion for mountain biking while being respectful of the environment.

Respect access rules

First and foremost, it’s essential to understand the rules for accessing nature reserves and forests. These rules vary depending on location and terrain. In general, pedestrians have access to all paths, while other recreational users – like cyclists and horseback riders – may face certain restrictions. These restrictions are laid out in access regulations (TRs) that are specific to each area. TRs describe which paths and zones are accessible to different types of users. It’s important to check these regulations before heading out, to ensure you stay on the right paths.

Why restrictions are necessary

In Flanders, only a small portion of the landscape is suitable for recreation, so we must protect these areas. Restrictions on mountain biking help preserve the quality of nature and prevent overuse. It’s not feasible to create trails everywhere, as this could disrupt wildlife habitats and reduce natural quiet zones. That’s why many types of recreation share the same trails. It’s essential to be courteous and show consideration for other users.

Avoid damage to nature

Mountain biking can damage soil and vegetation. Brake marks and tire tracks can cause erosion, especially in hilly terrain. Most plants don’t thrive in compacted soil, which threatens biodiversity. While this impact is acceptable on designated trails, illegal trails can have much greater negative effects. They may disturb wildlife and increase the risk of unwanted interactions between users. That’s why it’s so important to stick to official mountain bike routes.

Plenty of trail options

Fortunately, there are many trails available to mountain bikers in nature. The Agency for Nature and Forests (Natuur en Bos) manages nearly 4,000 kilometers of cycling paths, and Sport Vlaanderen has laid out over 8,000 kilometers of routes of varying difficulty levels. Local governments also contribute to the development of MTB routes. The number of trails is steadily growing, and there are still opportunities to create new ones by making smart use of existing paths and terrain.

Enjoy nature together

Let’s work together to respect and protect nature while enjoying our mountain bike rides. Understanding and following access rules is essential to ensure that everyone can continue to enjoy the outdoors.

Let’s cherish these beautiful landscapes while living out our passion for mountain biking. Happy riding!