The first destination you will want to take your mountain bike lies almost due east of Cleveland in the Alpine Valley Ski Area (440-285-2211 or visit their Web site for more information). A loop trail winds around the parking lot, up the ski slope, and into the woods. The trail is only a little over two miles, but it is a great place to work on fitness.

Good for a solid intermediate ride

Climbing through the woods is probably the best part of the course. It is not really that grueling, and you do get a break once in a while. Most of the climb is double-track that is hard-pack when dry and slick mud when wet. I would actually consider a few parts technical. There is an abundance of rocks in some sections, with a short downhill that weaves through rocks and trees.

Getting There

Take I-77 out of Cleveland and drive south to I-480 and head east on it. Continue onto I-480 to I-271 north. Exit I-271 onto US 322 toward Chesterland (east). Turn south onto Route 306. Alpine Valley is on Mayfield Road, four miles east of Route 306. After entering Alpine Valley, park near the lodge and start riding where the loop starts near the lake.

The Trail

After the first bit up the ski slope — a challenging ride on grass — and into the woods, you come to a short little climb. From there, you can start bombing down the ski slope. Enjoy it while you can; aside from this short downhill in the woods, the rest of the forest run involves climbing. Back out in the open, climb up another ski slope (which isn't as long or hard, compared to the first climb) and then take the downhill that forms the last part of the course. Your non-climbing friends will probably hate Alpine Valley since the downhills are simply too short and easy, and some mountain bikers don't feel the climbing is worthwhile. I love it.