Putting More Smiles (and Kids!) on Bikes at Ponca State Park
What a weekend! THOR returned to the Missouri River Outdoor Expo at Ponca State Park this September—and it was our best year yet.
Over 300 kids and families from all walks of life got the chance to hop on bikes, test their skills, and experience the joy of riding. From helmet fittings to guided rides, our team kept the All-Skills Track buzzing all weekend long. We even had repeat riders—kids who came back again and again for “just one more lap.”
This year’s event was smooth, safe, and full of energy thanks to our incredible volunteer crew. With dedicated course marshals, Bike Collab coaches, and staff, every part of the experience ran seamlessly. Volunteers from Nebraska Game & Parks joined in the fun, helping us create a supportive and welcoming space for every rider—whether it was their first time on a bike or their fiftieth.
The Friday Fifth Grader Day kicked things off with a bang as three classrooms rotated through our Intro to Mountain Biking sessions. NICA coaches led the students through the ABCs of riding, adjusting to each group’s energy and comfort level. Some kids came ready to shred; others were hesitant at first—but by the end of the day, everyone found a way to engage, learn, and smile.
Across the weekend, there were no accidents—only high-fives, laughter, and new riders.
“We had the perfect number of bikes, the perfect number of volunteers—and zero accidents. Just lots of smiles and confidence on the trail.”
A Team Effort
This event simply wouldn’t happen without the time and energy of our volunteers, community partners, and staff. It takes at least a dozen people to run the exhibit safely and successfully—and this year, our crew delivered in every way. Thank you to everyone who helped put more people on bikes, share the joy of trails, and represent THOR at one of Nebraska’s biggest outdoor events.
We were honored to be highlighted as a new exhibit this year and are already looking ahead to 2026. With more bike shops, NICA coaches, and community partners in the mix, the momentum for mountain biking in northeast Nebraska and South Dakota keeps growing.
See you next year at Ponca—where the trails, the smiles, and the stoke never stop.
“We had a line all day long. As soon as one kid finished, another was ready to roll. It was nonstop fun.”
Do you love working with people, organizing, and coordinating?
We’re looking for program leaders, volunteer coordinators, and event planners to work with our trail builders, program coaches, and volunteers. Learn more and sign up today
