Sylvie Belmond 
Richard Probst, volunteer training coordinator for the Mountain Bike Unit, discusses the group's role at the recent Cops N’ Cruisers event in Simi Valley. The MBU set up an outreach booth to recruit new volunteers. Image credit: Sylvie Belmond
The Mountain Bike Unit combines a love for riding with a mission to serve. Here’s how you can get involved.
(CLAIR | Simi Valley, CA) — For local mountain bikers, riding the rugged trails of the Santa Monica Mountains can be more than a weekend adventure — it can be a way to serve the community.
The Mountain Bike Unit (MBU), a volunteer group that patrols over 60,000 acres of public parkland, is looking for new members to join its ranks. Volunteers help protect trails, assist visitors and support local park agencies by being a visible, knowledgeable presence out on the trail.
At the recent Cops N’ Cruisers event in Simi Valley, MBU members set up a booth to share their mission and encourage riders to get involved. The group plays a vital support role for the National Park Service, California State Parks and the Mountains Recreation and Conservation Authority (MRCA), working to keep parks safe, welcoming and well-maintained.
“We’re out on the trails to inform and assist visitors, call for help when needed and serve as the eyes and ears for the agencies,” said Richard Probst, the unit’s volunteer training coordinator.
MBU volunteers can be spotted by their bright yellow jerseys and helmets as they patrol parks like Malibu Creek, Topanga, Point Mugu, and Will Rogers State Park, along with National Park Service areas such as Cheseboro, Palo Comado, Circle X Ranch, and Rancho Sierra Vista.
Patrols are self-scheduled through the MBU website, and members are asked to contribute at least eight hours per month — though many do more.
Training covers everything from park rules and radio communication to visitor engagement, first aid, CPR and field exercises. Riders of all skill levels are encouraged to join, whether they’re new to mountain biking or experienced on technical trails.
As of 2020, the group had about 130 active members. Along with their patrol duties, volunteers help lead community programs like the Youth Adventures Program, which gives kids from underserved areas a chance to explore nature by bike. They also assist at public events including Wheels to the Sea and the Los Angeles Marathon.
The next new member orientation will take place on a Saturday in January 2026 at King Gillette Ranch. The indoor session will introduce the program, and if weather permits, wrap up with an optional group ride.
To learn more or sign up, visit www.mountainbikeunit.com or email [email protected].
