Hello, fellow trail lovers! Winter riding can be some of the best riding of the year—cool air, beautiful scenery, and quiet trails. But it’s also the time when our trails are most at risk of damage due to the freeze-thaw cycle.
What is Freeze-Thaw?
During freezing nights, the moisture in the ground turns to ice, expanding and breaking up the soil. As the day warms up and the ice melts, the soil becomes soft and muddy. Even without recent rain or snow, moisture in the ground can be drawn to the surface during sunny winter days, setting the stage for freeze-thaw conditions.
How to Ride Responsibly
The good news? You can still enjoy the trails if you ride at the right time and keep an eye on conditions:
Ride when trails are either dry or frozen solid (like early morning after a hard freeze).
If you notice mud sticking to your tires or see that you’re leaving ruts, it’s time to turn around. Trails can go from great to messy in minutes, so plan to finish before they thaw.
Why It Matters
Riding on soft trails during a freeze-thaw cycle causes deep ruts that harden and create long-lasting damage. Repairing these trails is time-intensive and takes valuable volunteer hours away from trail improvements.
What About Puddles?
If you come across a puddle, ride through it—not around it—to avoid widening the trail.
The Best Solution?
Bundle up, enjoy the crisp winter air, and hit the trails early while they’re still frozen. And if conditions change, be ready to adapt—switch to the road, gravel, or even a scenic hike to protect the trails for everyone.
By riding responsibly, we’re helping to preserve the trails we all love. Thanks for being awesome trail stewards and happy winter riding! 
