Springtime is the place between the ski slopes being slushy and the bike trails being muddy. You have to time everything correctly to get out and play according to what Mother Nature is producing. Spring can also be the best time to ride trails because it isn’t too hot and the trails haven't been swarmed yet by fair-weather bikers.
Here is some of the best springtime riding in the area:
Arches National Park
Just a six-hour ride from our home in Fort Collins and you end up in the magical canyonlands of Arches National Park. Arches is best known for spectacular views, rock formations, and the hiking, but we genuinely believe the best way to explore any place is on two wheels.
Arches have 18 miles of trails that stretch across the wonderland. The route is not a dedicated bike trail, so the shoulder gets a bit narrow at times. Maybe avoid high tourist times of the week. Spring is perfect for cycling on the Western Slope because it is not too hot and not too cold, it's just right. Arches are our Goldilocks Spring trail pick.
Park at the main lot and start your journey. The first two miles are steep and inclined, but this is the most challenging part of the ride. Pass through La Sal Mountain Overlook and view the highest ranges in Utah. Shoot through Balancing Act and ascend upward for a few miles to Balancing Rock. HEad down the trail to Panorama Point, where you get 360-degree vistas of Devils Garden, the Fiery Furnace, Delicate Arch and the La Sals. On the ride, you will pass Delicate Arch, Fiery Furnace Viewpoint, and Devils Garden Trailhead end at the Landscape Arch and pat yourself on the back.
Arches meets up to Capitol Reef, Bryce Canyon, Arches, Canyonlands and Zion, the newly created Bears Ears National Monument, Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument, Glen Canyon National Recreation Area and beautiful Lake Powell. Feel free to go as far as you can and explore the lands on your bike for a new perspective and an ultimate adventure.
You can’t ride this trail without an
“I just want to ride bikes, drink beer and cuddle” Tee for men or women. Tell the world exactly where your priorities are with this stylish print. The tank is a poly-viscose blend that is moisture wicking and perfect for an active lifestyle.
Paonia
Just a five-hour car ride from the Fort and you hit
Paonia. The town loves mountain biking so much that the locals built their trail system within the city. It is a smooth ride, not seriously technical. The trail ranges from easy to intermediate.
The weather is still pretty perfect here in the spring, and the traffic on the trails are mostly locals with a few tourists sprinkled in. For the most up to date trail information visit the
Paonia Singletrack Society Facebook Page.
Jumbo Ridge Loop is just the perfect loop, close to downtown. Follow
Gully Trail east to the
Powerline Road, continuing to the northeast to
Slant n' Dicular and then on to
Jumbo Ridge. Take the descent down the ridge until you merge with
Herfendoodle and then take
Bang Zoom to
Zip n' Out and back to the trailhead.
This trail is experienced best in the
Venture Outdoor Windbreaker – Navy & Saddle Brown. It does rain a bit, and wind can come up without a warning when you are on the trail. Be prepared with some made for Colorado Gear.
This lightweight colorblocked windbreaker is water-resistant, packable and layers quickly, so put it in your fanny pack and ride on.
Ginny Trail via Powerline Trail
For the locals to Fort Collins or if you are visiting and want a ride that won’t kill you, the
Ginny Trail is a great option. The journey starts going up on the
Powerline Trail in Bobcat Ridge. This area was devastated by fire but revitalized through some lovely trail building from the city. In the beginning, it is quite a trek up, but the views at the top and the decent are what this ride is all about. There is roughly 1700' of technical descent and some sweet single track features to keep you thrilled.
This trail is experienced best in the
explore Bike Tee available in both men’s and women’s. All you need is two wheels and an open road to find all kinds of adventures. Design by guest artist Phil Knutson.
For an exclusive look at biking in Colorado, check out
Colorado Bike Maps. For more
Akinz biking gear check us out online or in our two Fort Collins locations.