The Mount Wilson Bicycling Association (MWBA) traces its roots back to 1986 when Alan Armstrong established it with the goal of educating mountain bikers about trail courtesy and safety. Originally formed as a social group, MWBA quickly evolved into a trail advocacy organization, addressing the increased conflicts on trails as mountain biking gained popularity.

In the late 80s, as mountain bikes became more prevalent on the Mount Wilson Toll Road, conflicts with other trail users arose. To address these issues, MWBA was formed to educate fellow mountain bikers about trail courtesy and to protect mountain bike access. Early MWBA members played a crucial role in preserving mountain bike access in the Angeles National Forest above Pasadena.

Volunteers, passionate about the cause, engaged in trail maintenance to support the U.S. Forest Service (USFS) in keeping the trails open and safe for all user groups. The Pancake Breakfast, initiated in 1986 at Henninger Flats, became a significant fundraiser for MWBA, helping cover the costs of tools and materials for trail work.

One of MWBA's notable achievements was the construction of the Ken Burton trail, a long-term project spanning three years and collaboration with the USFS. This trail, built by mountain bikers for all trail users, marked the first new trail in the Angeles National Forest in decades.

Despite facing a hiatus around 1999, where volunteer trail work was halted for a forest-wide evaluation, MWBA found renewed energy around 2010. New enthusiasts took up the MWBA banner, emphasizing trail courtesy, community engagement, and sustainable trail development. Today, MWBA continues its legacy, actively participating in trail work and fostering a sense of responsibility and camaraderie within the mountain biking community.

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