Rain, Mud, Tacky Trails….

Tackling the trails  in the winter and getting out in damp conditions can be an amazing adventure.  When you can swing it rain, snow or sleet, there is something to be said about the exhilaration of getting out on the trail in the wet rainy muddy conditions. It can be really really fun! Although, there are times the conditions are not conducive to riding in the rain and important to know when to go out and when to not.

When to ride and when to not?

It can be super fun to get out there in the inclement weather and charge. The wet weather brings tacky grippy trails that are the “brown pow” of winter. Wet riding allows us to get absolutely filthy, and not get in trouble for it. The inner child comes out to play, and will guide you through those muddy banks and deep puddles. It can leave your cheeks sore from smiling from the adventure and adrenaline of the experience. Slippery wet trails can also help perfect those sweet stunts you’ve been working on. For the more reckless and experimental riders, you can get some fun sliding action done in the mud. Although be prepared for some potential unexpected wrecks from the unpredictable trails and hidden obstacles as well.

Tacky Fun Or A Muddy Mess?

Although, there is a fine line though between sweet tacky fun wet riding and flooded thick muddy singletrack with extreme trail erosion. Before you head out for your ride check the trail conditions by calling the park ranger, or looking at the open space  or park website. And, if need be head to a trail where the soil is less affected by the crazy excessive rain. Some dirt is more favorable in rain to ride then others. And a rule of thumb is if you are moving too much soil around it is a good sign to stop or relocate your ride.

A few years back when I was antsy to take my bike out in the thick of winter and out of the snow (where I live); I headed to a nearby trail system and had the stickiest messiest stuck in the mud ride of my life.  After having my tires gridlocked from the thick clay I absolutely couldn’t go any further.  Having to carry my bike back to the truck, power wash it to get the glue like mud off, I realized that trail system was a no go in conditions like this.

Rain Is Your Friend

It may take a few trial and errors, research, talking to others, but it is worth the effort if the specicif trails conditions allow. It’s about having fun. It’s about being outside, and the adventure and overall experience. Don’t let the cloudy wet weather completely deter you. Let it motivate you to ride beyond your norm and to come home with a smile but grateful you have a hot shower awaiting.