Real outdoor enthusiasts don’t put away their running shoes or mountain bikes just because the air is chilly and the ground is covered with snow. If you live in a nature lover’s paradise like Colorado, Winter is just another season to enjoy the great outdoors. As long as you follow a few simple safety precautions, there’s no reason you can’t go mountain biking on our mountain and park trails all year long.
When mountain biking on the Colorado trails in the winter, pick trails that have been plowed. You can also book a guided mountain biking tour and get to see the best trails in winter.
You’ll most likely have to maneuver a few snow covered streets before you get to your favorite trail. Whenever possible, take the same route as the snow plow. Even when you get to your favorite trail, hit up the ones that get plowed, so you’re not slipping and sliding in fresh piles of snow.
When the trails are icy and snowy, slow down a little. It’s not a race. Take the time to breathe in the fresh winter air and take in the scenery. Go slow around bends and turns. Turning sharply around a corner will only increase your chances of an accident. If the trails are slippery, try only to use your back brake to steady yourself and avoid spinning out.
Stay warm and hydrated when you are mountain biking in the winter.
If you’re a fan of winter mountain biking, the fatter the tire, the more secure you’ll feel on slippery trails and roads. And remember not to get too fancy with your equipment. You’ll be riding through snow, grit, salt, and sand that can take its tolls on your gear and suspension. You don’t want to take out your $1000 fancy bike and then have it ruined before you make it back home.
And last, stay warm, wear a lot of layers to protect yourself from the cold. Avoid cotton and stick to materials that will dry out quickly. And remember to cover your hands and your head to prevent your body heat from escaping too quickly.