Although winter seems to be “officially here,” as Bend’s esteemed godfather of mountain biking Bob Woodward wrote last week, it doesn’t mean the Central Oregon mountain biking opportunities have disappeared. All those suggestions are worthy. The enthusiasts can get our tires on dirt yearround; it just becomes a matter of clothing over weather. Make sure you head out well prepared, not only for cold, but for darkness as well. Keep in mind also as snow levels fluctuate and trails become snowed in, not only is the biking more difficult, but so is the emergency access. Please be careful out there!

COTA is stoked to announce that several new trails in the Wanoga Complex will be open this fall. Due to a very productive trail work season, especially with the great turnout for the Steve Larsen and Bend Dental Group Work event last weekend in which 68 people turned up to work for four hours on these two trails, we have been able to complete a new trail, which is part of a link from Tiddlywinks Trail, over to Edison Snow Park. This new connector trail is called Kiwa Butte trail, named after the butte it climbs.

For a dry side version of “fall colors,” head east to the Ochoco National Forest and lay some tracks on the Round Mountain/Lookout Mountain trails. Aspen groves and stands of Western larch pepper the forests here along with the ubiquitous ponderosa pine in its favored habitat of “open park-like stands.” The scenery, wildlife and diverse forest types make for a unique visual experience, but the flow and technical challenge of the trails are what makes this area so muchfun for mountain biking. Current trail conditions are a little “fresh” from the recent contract trail work that was completed this summer.

Ahh, rain and fall colors. Does it get any better than this? I just rode the McKenzie River Trail (MRT) and even when it’s raining you stay mostly dry underneath the high canopy of old growth forest that covers this trail. Fall colors are just beginning to show themselves and it only gets better as winter approaches. The MRT is one of those classic rides – very scenic, plenty of challenges for every level of mountain biker and a full day immersed in some spectacularly pristine nature. I liken riding the McKenzie to a biking baptism, as it has a renewing effect.

The Central Oregon Trail Alliance (COTA) has been at the forefront of developing and maintaining one of the great assets of outdoor recreation around here – the single-track mountain biking trails. There are so many different routes and loops to ride that it boggles the mind, and that is one reason I have yet to write about a certain “must ride” trail or loop—until now. (Another reason is I’m trying to remain true to COTA’s mission, which focuses on trail maintenance and stewardship as well as access and education, but does not mention “promoting” the sport of mountain biking. It’s a slippery slope – let me assure you.)