Mountain Biking - Finding Trails

I'm pretty new to Mountain Biking. I went on a trail last weekend and had a blast. I found a great deal on a used Trek 8000 SLR, and the only thing really holding me back from getting it is, where will I use it? The trail I went on was an hour away, and with me not having a car, I can only go when my parents go, which is not very often. I looked online, and while there were a few slightly closer, everything is far enough away I would be completely exhausted when I get to the trail. Any tips for finding somewhere to ride?

I'm pretty new to Mountain Biking. I went on a trail last weekend and had a blast. I found a great deal on a used Trek 8000 SLR, and the only thing really holding me back from getting it is, where will I use it? The trail I went on was an hour away, and with me not having a car, I can only go when my parents go, which is not very often. I looked online, and while there were a few slightly closer, everything is far enough away I would be completely exhausted when I get to the trail. Any tips for finding somewhere to ride?

mtbr.com trail review section and forums for WI.

Whatever local chapter, if you have one, of IMBA.

Ask around with your local bike shops.

Find some topo maps of your area. Combined with google earth, you may be able to find some good stuff right under your nose.

As mentioned already your local lbs is probably best source for nearby trails. I have started doing more road biking for this reason as well as it is a decent drive to get to any real mtb trails. I can ride right out of my driveway. Put some skinny road type tires on the mountain bike and ride it and build up your endurance etc so when you can make it to the trails you'll be that much stronger.

Gotta be good MTB riding in Wisconson. Beautiful state.

Ok, thanks, Found some stuff that's closer. I think I'm picking up the bike tomorrow.

The tires on the bike look like they would actually be good for trails or road, Can't wait to try it out.