Southwest Singletrack: Weekend Trails Report - 11.12.21
Well, the season finally caught up with us. There is snow on the ground from the alpine to the valley, and while temps look to rise over the weekend, the forecast calls for blustery and potentially wet conditions.
There are rides to be had if you bundle up, but this might be a good weekend to go get the skis tuned and break out some maps and a Mud Mocha from Freshies to start planning your desert escape.
If you do need a fix, here’s what we know.
Copper City - Got snow
While things should melt out and dry out soon, there was snow on the ground Thursday afternoon. That ground was still frozen, but it should thaw and that snow will melt, so conditions will get sloppy before improving. As always, there will be significant wind to contend with and potentially rain.
A skiff of snow at the Copper City pump track, 11/11/21. Photo by Kirk Dowdy.
Lewis & Clark Caverns - Same as Copper
While we haven’t been out to check, it is likely that Lewis and Clark got the same treatment as Copper City. If you’ve heard or seen otherwise, please let us know.
Town Trails - Know When to Go
Town trails definitely got the snow, but things should be rideable if you go early enough when the ground is frozen. Once it thaws, the snow still start to melt and cause some serious muddy gumbo. Once that happens, avoid trails like Highland Glen and Painted Hills at all costs. Peets Hill, East Gallatin Rec Area, and Cherry River should be good to go as the tread on these trails is reinforced with gravel. However, if you’re leaving ruts, the trail needs more time to dry.
Gallatin Foothills - Sourdough Reopen
Sourdough / Bozeman Creek has reopened, and this could be an option as the old road grade handles moisture well. Keep in mind that the trail will close again for a few days next week, Tuesday through Thursday as logging operations wrap up. It is closed to bikes for the winter starting December 1.
If you’re looking for something more gravity-oriented, Leverich is ol’ reliable. It’ll be snowy in spots, but worth checking out if you need a fix.
Bangtails and Bridgers - Standby
After the week’s snow, this is not the time to go poking around the mountains north of town. We could see some trails on the west side of the Bridgers dry out again before winter settles in for good, but this weekend as the snow melts and the mountains likely see some rain, it’s best to avoid this region.
Regional Road Trip - Head for Helena
For what we’ve heard, Helena is in great shape. If you’re going to make the trip, it is worth checking in with a local shop or Bike Helena before heading that way.
Mud Mocha - Get Your Fix!
A Freshies Cafe Mud Mocha in all its glory.
With the winter weather settling in, now is as good a time as ever to head for Freshies Cafe and get your Mud Mocha. In an effort to educate folks about the importance of avoiding muddy trails during the shoulder seasons, Freshies is donating $1 of every mocha sold to SWMMBA. There’s a kids version, too, so you can take the whole family before your next snowy outing. Thank you Freshies for your support!
Give for Trails
As we wind down the 2021 season, we’re anxiously looking ahead to 2022. We have a massive lift in the coming year, expanding our trail stewardship program, rebuilding in-town bike parks, and continuing to advocate and educate. We can’t do it without the support of the community, so this holiday season, consider a gift to trails. Become a monthly donor starting at just $15 to make your impact today.