BROWN CO. – It only takes one adventure in the outdoors to inspire a future conservationist. Thanks to the Indiana Natural Resources Foundation’s Give Adventure grant, exciting recreational opportunities are providing Hoosiers access to new adventures, like the GoBikeIN program at Brown County State Park.
The cost of a mountain bike, safety gear, and the fear of getting hurt can hold people back from trying mountain biking. GoBikeIN removes those barriers. The program provides beginners with professional instruction and all the equipment needed to try the sport for free.
It only takes one adventure in the outdoors to inspire a future conservationist. Thanks to the Indiana Natural Resources Foundation’s Give Adventure grant, exciting recreational opportunities are providing Hoosiers access to new adventures, like the GoBikeIN program at Brown County State Park.
The first portion of the workshops focuses on technical skills. Riders learn how to position their body on their bike to maximize safety while traversing trails. They practice maneuvers on flat ground using cones as obstacles while the instructors offer personalized tips for improvement. After the instructors see that the participants have had sufficient practice to show confidence on their bikes, they head out on a beginner-level trail.
People of all ages and levels of experience are welcome to try the workshops. The first attendees included beginners as well as individuals who had some biking experience. They all learned new and important skills to ride safely, and by the end of the course, they had all improved. They also had fun in the process.
This program will resume once the State Fair is over. If you are interested in taking part, visit the Brown County State Park events page. Upcoming dates will be added soon.
A program like GoBikeIN is also possible because of the public lands Indiana offers. DNR manages our state parks, state forests, Fish & Wildlife areas, nature preserves, reservoirs, and motorized riding areas. These destinations offer Hoosiers many opportunities for outdoor adventures just waiting to be enjoyed. Find one of your own at the Rec Finder link.
The future of Indiana’s natural lands depends on those who enjoy them, recognize their importance, and wish to continue protecting them for future generations. Help make a difference by donating to the INRF to support programs like the Give Adventure grant.
