Interview with local Bellingham, Wash., rider

I'm talking with a local rider from Bellingham, Washington. His name is Josh Mather. I thought, what better way to learn about the riding in Bellingham than to interview a local rider. Let's begin...

Q: Josh, why should anyone travel here to ride?

A: Because it is sick and it is fun.

Q: Where is the best place to ride?

A: Galbraith is the best place to ride, but there are many options as well. The Chuckanut mountains are large enough to support lots of trails. One of the coolest things about riding in Bellingham is the mixture of the styles of riding. If you like to XC, then you have lots of trails and miles of riding. If you are into freeriding, then you will be at home in Bellingham: lots of built up terrain and natural obstacles.

Q: What is your favorite ride?

A: You know that is an impossible question to answer. My favorites right now are Bob's, Karma and Supersonic Transport. They are on the north side of Galbraith.

Q: What's the riding scene like in Bellingham?

A: There is a big scene and a lot of trail building. One thing I've noticed is the lack of the "pro" scene like there is in Colorado. There is more of a beer-drinking-have-fun scene.

Q: You've lived in Durango, Colorado, and Bellingham, Washington. Which town is better to ride?

A: (Josh pauses) Durango is better for the XC rider. Bellingham is better for the freerider. It all depends on what you want to do. For my dollar, I like Durango. You can ride for miles and never see the same terrain. I like getting way out there.