The Northwest North Carolina Mountain Bike Alliance (the Alliance) is proud to welcome three new members to its Board of Directors. Each brings a unique background rooted in trail stewardship, community building, and a deep love for riding in Northwest North Carolina.
As a chapter of Southern Off-Road Bicycle Association (SORBA), the Alliance works to build, maintain, and protect some of the best mountain bike trails in the state—serving riders across Boone, Hickory, Lenoir, Glen Alpine, Conover, Wilkesboro, and the Grandfather District of Pisgah National Forest. The strength of this work depends on dedicated volunteers and leaders who represent the diverse communities we serve.
Meet the New Board Members
Megan Stainback — Elkin / Yadkin Valley
Megan Stainback lives in her hometown of Elkin, where she works at the historic Reeves Theater and serves on the board of the Elkin Valley Trails Association. Her work helps strengthen the connections between arts, outdoor recreation, and community life.
After college, Megan began her career in the outdoor industry working at a bike and paddle shop in Raleigh before spending several years at Appalachian Ski Mountain in Blowing Rock. Returning home, she witnessed firsthand the rapid growth of local trail systems and the positive impact they’ve had on outdoor access and quality of life for her family and community.
An avid mountain biker and trail runner, Megan is a strong advocate for thoughtfully planned, sustainable, multi-use trail systems. She brings a collaborative mindset focused on regional connectivity and long-term stewardship through partnerships with land managers and local organizations.
Blaine Johnston— Wilkes County
Blaine Johnston has been “clearing spider webs with his face” on local trails for years—first as a trail runner, and later as a mountain biker who decided to level up the experience.
An ultra-runner and mountain biker from Wilkes County, Blaine serves as head of the site crew for MerleFest and brings extensive experience in volunteer coordination, trail work, and event planning. Through his professional work, he regularly manages work projects and volunteer assignments, skills that translate directly to supporting Alliance initiatives.
Blaine has volunteered at countless trail workdays and races, served as race director for a successful local trail race, and supported events with Tanawha Adventures, the WilCo Wolves NICA team, and other organizations. He also helps promote the popular Tuesday night Berms and Brews group ride in Wilkesboro. While his riding preference leans toward flow trails, he can occasionally be convinced to join a road ride.
Micah Rushin — High Country
Micah Rushin grew up in the High Country and began mountain biking at age nine. The local trail scene shaped not only his riding but his sense of community—guiding him through Appalachian State University and into a career focused on trail building and advocacy.
Micah is passionate about expanding access to world-class trail experiences across Northwest North Carolina and is eager to continue growing his skillset through his work with the Alliance. When he’s not volunteering, you’ll likely find him riding Rocky Knob in the afternoons or exploring the Grandfather District of Pisgah National Forest on weekends.
Leading the Alliance Forward
The Alliance’s Board of Directors is voted on annually at the chapter meeting, with directors representing each geographic area of our region. These new board members join a dedicated group of leaders committed to advancing the Alliance’s mission through its core values: Speak. Build. Respect. Ride.
Great trails rely on members, volunteers, and community support. The Alliance thanks everyone who contributes time, energy, and resources to help make Northwest North Carolina a premier destination for mountain biking.
To learn more about the Alliance, current trail conditions, or how to get involved, visit ridenwnctrails.com.
