Building Wooden Features
Learn how to design and construct durable, safe wooden features that enhance your trail system and challenge riders of all skill levels.
Overview
Why Build Wooden Features?
Wooden features add diversity, challenge, and excitement to mountain bike trails. From simple bridges that cross wet areas to complex elevated structures that test a rider's skills, wooden features can transform an ordinary trail into an extraordinary experience.
Benefits
- Allows trails to cross wet or sensitive areas
- Creates technical challenges for riders
- Adds variety and interest to trail systems
- Can reduce trail maintenance in problem areas
- Provides opportunities for skill progression
Considerations
- Requires regular inspection and maintenance
- Higher liability concerns than natural features
- Material costs can be significant
- May need permits or approvals
- Must be built to withstand weather conditions
Types of Wooden Features
Different wooden features serve various purposes on the trail, from practical crossings to technical challenges.
Bridges
Span gaps, streams, or wet areas while providing a smooth riding surface.
Ladders & Skinnies
Narrow elevated features that test balance and precision.
Drops & Jumps
Features that allow riders to get airborne in a controlled environment.
Safety First:Safety should be your primary concern when building wooden features. All structures must be designed and built to withstand the forces applied by riders, as well as environmental factors like weather and decay. Always include clear signage indicating feature difficulty, provide ride-arounds for optional features, and regularly inspect all wooden structures for damage or deterioration.