Hinton Mountain Bike Association

The Hinton Mountain Bike Association (HMBA) is a nonprofit organization based in Hinton, Alberta, Canada. Its business registration number is 851376996RR0001, and it operates with a focus on developing, maintaining, and promoting mountain biking opportunities in the Hinton area.

History

Formed in 2007, the HMBA has played a crucial role in transforming Hinton into a significant mountain biking destination. The association's efforts have not only helped create a diverse range of trails but also fostered a vibrant community around mountain biking in the region.

Activities and Contributions

The HMBA is responsible for managing approximately 90 kilometers of trails and maintaining a public bike park in Hinton. These facilities offer a varied experience for both novice and experienced riders. The association organizes regular club rides, including Monday Ladies' Night and Wednesday Night Rides, as well as trail maintenance days throughout the spring and summer.

Community Engagement and Support

The HMBA achieves its goals through a combination of membership support and corporate sponsorships. Membership fees are reinvested entirely into improving biking infrastructure and experiences in Hinton. The association benefits from over 50 community and corporate sponsors, which include prominent organizations such as Boston Pizza, Royal Bank, and EnCana Energy. This sponsorship not only supports trail maintenance but also contributes to the development of new trails, like a novice trail designed for younger riders.

Membership

Membership in the HMBA is open to individuals and families, with annual fees set at CAD 35 for individuals and CAD 75 for families. The membership year runs from April 1 to March 31 of the following year. Members enjoy benefits such as discounts at local businesses in Hinton and Jasper.

Impact

The HMBA's initiatives have transformed Hinton into a recognized mountain biking destination, attracting visitors from across the region. Their efforts align with the International Mountain Bicycling Association's (IMBA) guidelines for creating vibrant mountain bike communities, which include providing diverse user experiences and engaging local businesses in support of the sport. The association's work has been recognized as a model for other communities seeking to develop their mountain biking potential.

Charitable Status

The HMBA holds charitable status, allowing it to accept donations and provide tax receipts for contributions over CAD 20. This status helps the association manage project and operational costs, further supporting its mission to promote mountain biking in Hinton.