Mountain Biking in Jamaica

Jamaica's hilly terrain creates a challenge for mountain bikers, though there are easier rides, especially near the beaches and on the western end of the island. Heavy, unpredictable traffic on the North Coast Highway makes it off-limits for bikers, but smaller country roads and winding trails weave a network through the countryside.

Blue Mountain Bicycle Tours (121 Main St., Ocho Rios. 876/974-7075. www.bmtoursja.com) takes travelers on guided rides in the spectacular Blue Mountains. The all-day excursion starts high and glides downhill, so all levels of riders can enjoy the tour. The trip ends with a dip in a waterfall; the package price includes transportation from Ocho Rios or Kingston, brunch, lunch, and all equipment. From its location outside Montego Bay, Chukka Caribbean Adventures (Sandy Bay, Hanover. 876/972-2506. www.chukkacaribbean.com) offers ATV tours. There's a minimum age of 16 on the ATV tours. The noisy ATVs jostle and splash their way along trails on a 10-mi (16-km) ride through the hills before returning so visitors can take a dip in the sea. From its Ocho Rios location, Chukka Caribbean Adventures (Llandovery, St. Ann's Bay. 876/972-2506. www.chukkacaribbean.com) offers a 3½-hour bike tour through St. Ann's Bay and the village of Mount Zion with several stops and even snorkeling at the end. There is also an ATV tour. There's a minimum age of 12 for bikes, 16 for ATVs.