FUNCTIONING MTN BIKE
You will need a tuned mountain bike that runs smoothly and is the right size bike for you. You can take it to any local bike shop and they'll be able to help you know if it needs work and if it's a good fit.
HELMET, GLOVES, TUBES & TOOLS
You will need to have a comfortable, yet snug fitting helmet. If it's broken, you can find a new one at any local shop. Any kind of bike gloves are welcome. Bring a spare tube that fits your tire size. And a multitool to make bike adjustments.
PEDALS
We recommend, but don't require, flat pedals. Flat pedals will make it easier for you to learn new skills on your bike and not worry about being "clipped in." But we understand, if you have clipless pedals, make sure your shoes fit your pedals.
SUNGLASSES, SUNSCREEN, SNACKS & WATER
Make sure to have eye protection that you are comfortable with and that you can see out of. Also, sunscreen, wear sunscreen!
It's always smart to ride with a few snacks - energy gels, bars, chews or a little candy treat. As for water at least one water bottle!
SEAT POST DROPPER OR QUICK RELEASE
You don't have to have a seat post dropper - it's helpful, but not required. If you don't, just make sure you know how to lower and raise your seat using a quick release. It's easier to learn new skills by getting that seat out of the way.
CLOTHING
Padded bike shorts are nice - we highly recommend them.
Weather can change fast, bring warmer layers and a rain jacket.
AFTER SESSION-RIDE RECOMMENDATIONS
BluBird Mountain Bike Instruction offers a variety of opportunities build your skills. We want you to love mountain biking as much as we do, here are some trail recommendations for different rider levels!
JUST BEGINNING
Look up these trails on Trailforks for more information and maps
Suggested rides:
Eagle - Haymaker Trail to Extra Credit - make sure you can clear all optional obstacles, standing and sitting.
Eagle Ranch Loops - Park at Third Gulch Trailhead, ride up 2nd Gulch and down Mayer or up 2nd Gulch to Baileys
Minturn: Mini Mile - Park at Little Beach Park
You can do this! Really, you can!
INTERMEDIATE TO ADVANCED
You're putting in time and it's starting to pay off. Ready for some new challenges?
Suggested rides:
Minturn: Everkrisp Trail Opens July 12th - Park at Forest Service Park n Ride
Eagle-Vail Trail: Park at Eagle-Vail Pavillion
West Avon Preserve Trails: Park at W end of Nottingham road on N Side of I-70
Edwards: Berry Creek Trail. Park at Trailhead
Eagle: West Eagle Trails - Park near Dusty Boot
Eagle: Boneyard to Pool n Ice - Park at Haymaker Trailhead
GET INVOLVED + GIVE BACK!
We encourage everyone who loves to be out on trails in any capacity, to give back locally, to those trails.
The Vail Valley Mountain Trails Alliance is the leading advocate for soft surface trails in Eagle County and regularly organizes trail work nights.
