On hiking trails across San Luis Obispo, members of the Cal Poly Unicycle Club ride one wheel where most people take two.
Club members regularly meet on weekends to practice mountain unicycling, also known as Muni, on trails throughout the Central Coast. Organized through the club’s Discord server, the rides often alternate between beginner-friendly routes and more challenging terrain so riders of all experience levels can participate.
Mountain unicycling differs from traditional unicycling because riders navigate rocky trails, steep descents and uneven terrain rather than paved surfaces. Riders rely on specialized unicycles with larger wheels and wear protective gear including helmets, gloves, knee pads and shin guards to handle the added difficulty.
Some of the club’s favorite trails sit above San Luis Obispo near the TV towers, where riders can see views of Morro Bay, the coastline and surrounding hills.
Beyond the Central Coast, the club travels to Moab, Utah each spring break to ride with unicyclists from around the world. The trip includes riding well-known desert trails, giving members the chance to test their skills on longer and more technical routes.
Members say mountain unicycling requires patience and practice, but the reward comes from the challenge of mastering trails and seeing personal progress over time.
The club welcomes new riders and encourages beginners to start on flat ground before advancing to trails.