Here’s the thing: cabin fever is probably creeping in. You need to get outside and ride your bike. But even if you’re somewhere without snow, winter still throws a curveball because of daylight. How are you supposed to squeeze in more than an hour on your bike when the sun disappears so early? Dylan’s got some solid tips to help you stretch those rides and make the most of winter (or even early spring) light with mountain biking at night.
Embrace the Night
A dark start doesn’t have to ruin your fun. Photo by Local Freshies®
One of the easiest ways to extend your winter rides is to head out at night. Before you say “Hell no!” give it a chance. Night riding can add an unexpected level of excitement and freshness to your routine. Trails you know well suddenly feel new and more fun after dark. Stick to familiar routes you’ve ridden before so there are no surprises—just the thrill of riding them in the dark. And before you roll out, double check that the trail system allows riding after dark or rather has any restrictions on it. A quick check keeps the good vibes rolling and ensures we all continue to have access to ride.
Light It Up!
Light up the trail. Photo by: Local Freshies®
Unless you’re riding on a well-lit singletrack, nighttime trails are as dark as an Edgar Allan Poe poem. So, it’s essential to bring lights. A headlamp might work in the city, but on the trail, you’ll need much more brightness. Use both a headlamp on your helmet and a floodlight on your handlebar that has a wider beam illuminating more of the trail and the surrounding area, helping you see everything clearly.
Dylan’s favorite bike lights are by Outbound.
What to Wear
Have layers to switch out as the temperatures change. Photo by Local Freshies®
You might be tempted to just throw on your pajamas and head out, but temperatures drop quickly after sunset. Even if you feel comfortable at first, pack an extra layer or two to stay warm. It’s also smart to wear glasses to protect your eyes from wind and debris, preferably clear lenses or at least avoid the dark tint of traditional sunglasses.
Winter tries to shrink your ride time and box you in. But shorter days don’t mean shorter stoke. Grab your lights, layer up, and lean into the adventure. Night riding isn’t just a backup plan. It’s a whole new way to experience the trail. The dirt feels different, the focus sharpens, and suddenly that familiar loop becomes something fresh again. Don’t let the clock decide when your ride ends, and that applies to all seasons. Flip the switch, roll out, and keep the momentum going all year long.
