Dirt in your wheels: Explore the autumn trails

Picture yourself gliding along a secluded mountain trail. The air is cool, leaves are turning brilliant shades of amber and scarlet.

Welcome to mountain bike riding in autumn.

"Moderate temperatures and reliably dry conditions make fall the prime season for mountain biking in most of North America," said Mike Van Abel, executive director of the International Mountain Bicycling Association.

IMBC has assembled a list of its favorite fall rides. Most of them are located within easy driving of major metropolitan centers. All of them afford great views, spectacular landscapes and solitude.

"Mountain biking offers the chance to get away from auto traffic and busy bike paths," Van Abel said. "On a natural-surface trail you can explore the outdoors from your bicycle seat."

Most of the recommended trails are easy enough for people of all ages. Van Abel suggested joining a local club since it knows local terrain and can accommodate riders with varying levels of skill.

"The IMBA alone offers more than 600 clubs around the globe and many of them host weekly rides for beginners," Van Abel said.

Autumn outings require some planning not needed in summer, however. Extra food and clothing are recommended.

"Keep in mind that we lose daylight quickly during the autumn months," Van Able said. "If you're headed out for an evening ride make sure to bring a reflective jacket and an emergency light source."

The IBMC has the following advice for autumn mountain bikers:

• Contact local riding clubs. They know the best trails and often organize free outings.
• Wear a reflective jacket and bring a light source if you are taking a late afternoon or evening ride.
• Bring along first aid supplies in case of bruises, road rash, scrapes, cuts and bumps. Your safety kit should include ice packs, antiseptic and bandages.
• Always stay on existing trails and obey posted signs pertaining to bike traffic. This helps maintain trail integrity and the number of trails that remain open to riders.
• Avoid wet trails wherever possible. Autumn rains can turn trails into mud, creating hazards for the rider and damage to the trail itself.
• Pass hikers and horses cautiously, to the left. They have the right of way.

Useful mountain bike links:

• Basic rules of the mountain bike trail: http://www.imba.com/about/rules-trail
• Find a local mountain bike club: http://www.imba.com/near-you/clubs

Article by Jay Alling, editor of Sensible Driver. Write to jay@sensibledriver.com.