What The Hell Ride

A thin dirt trail cuts the lush green forest in half, slicing across the landscape before disappearing into a portal of shadows in the distance. Suddenly, a lightning-like blur emerges from the darkness. It flashes in front of my lens, followed by several more blurs and a plume of dust. As quickly as they appeared, they are swallowed up by the trees, leaving behind the fading sounds of their engines as dirt and dust slowly drifts down from the air like ash. This is what it’s like to try to photograph the womyn of “What the Hell Ride” as they dart, weave, and throttle their way through the woods on their dirtbikes.

What, in the hell, you ask, is “What the Hell Ride?” Well, their Instagram bio says it’s “a DIY dirtbike ride + campout for womyn… to expand your/our riding circle.” After spending a couple days in the woods with them, I’d say that summary is pretty damn accurate. It’s also only part of the story.

The riders that came that weekend had a range of experience on their bikes. Some were longtime road riders who were new to the trails, others had done arduous multi-day off road excursions.Regardless of their level of experience, each had the opportunity, support, and encouragement to grow their skills and push themselves as riders. There were times more advanced riders split off to try more challenging hill climbs and obstacles while beginners practiced foundational techniques and built their skills without judgment or pressure. As a result, friends were made, community formed, and folx had permission to let loose and be their full selves.

It was a privilege to share space with this crew. Thanks to Regan, Bri, and the whole WTH crew for trusting me to share space with y’all and to tell a little bit of the “What the Hell Ride” story.