Bunny hops or vegetable tunnels? Perceptions and preferences of mountain bike riders on the San Jacinto Ranger District

Abstract

To investigate mountain bike use on the San Jacinto Ranger District in southern California, mountain bike riders were queried using a mailed survey process. The objectives were to develop a sociodeimographic profile of mountain bike riders; profile their activity patterns; and describe user perceptions related to mountain bike use in general and specifically to the region. This information was to be used in developing a regional mountain biking plan. Most respondents were male, about 34 years of age, and had some college education. They were active recreationists yet were committed to the sport of mountain bike riding. Trails were thought to have acceptable numbers of users and amounts of physical impacts. The respondents believed that they should share trails with other users and follow rules of etiquette. The regional hiking plan should include little by way of site amenities. Few differences existed between more and less experienced riders.