Nowhere is the collision between seasons more apparent than fall and winter, where conditions can transition from fall colors to a skiff or even drifts of snow overnight. And although March might come in like a lion, late autumn often comes in like a snowball to the face. The upside for mountain bikers?
Every ride is a bonus after the mad scramble of peak riding season. And low stakes along with snow-day excitement usually only reserved for elementary school can combine for some of the most surprisingly satisfying rides of the year.
Photo Essay
This page, upper right: Sliding in snow, skidding in leaves, stomping in puddles; low-stakes late-season riding is a reminder of the pure child-like joy of cycling.
Aaron Theisen is a long-time contributor to OTO, based in Spokane, as well as a professional author, photographer, and expert outdoor storyteller. He founded Whiskey Ginger Media and his work can be found in magazines published in the United States and Canada. His guidebook “Day Hiking: Glacier National Park & Western Montana” was published by Mountaineers Books in 2018.
