Why Fall is Great for Mountain Biking + Where to Go

The drier air and cooler temps of fall bring better conditions to trails over much of the country. The dirt is less likely to get too dry and dusty, so it stays tacky longer with moisture from summer showers or the autumn rains. Here are some trails that are likely to come into perfect condition in fall.

Gunsight Ridge - Mount Hood, Oregon
Paradise Royale Loop - Humboldt, California
Bonnet Carre Spillway - New Orleans, Louisiana

Thinner crowds

Popular trails can get crowded in the summer with the added numbers of people traveling during vacation season. At top destinations, you're often better off waiting until fall when fewer visitors are about.

Slickrock Trail - Moab, Utah
Betasso Wildlife Preserve - Boulder, Colorado
It's Business Time - Whistler, British Columbia

Fall colors

Of course, one of the highlights of fall is the color show. In parts of the country that light up when the season turns, riding through the forest is one of the best ways to enjoy it.

Trout Brook Valley Preserve - Western Connecticut
Aska Trails - Blue Ridge, Georgia
Wasatch Crest - Salt Lake City, Utah
Valleycliffe - Squamish, British Columbia

Daylight savings

Fall is the last of daylight savings time, when there's still enough light for rides after work. Make the most of the best season for mountain biking before the clock falls back by hitting your local trails after punching the clock.