If The Trails Are Dry- Winter Mountain Biking in Park County
Written By: Katelyn Parker/ Photos By: Jeremy Martin
It is no secret that the summer season in Park County is jammed packed with outdoor activity opportunities, but how do the local outdoor enthusiasts stay entertained when the weather turns cold, but it’s not quite winter sports season? The answer, layer up and keep doing what you love. As mountain biking has continued to grow in popularity, enthusiasts flock to Park County to ride its hundreds of miles of world class trails even in the late fall. Local mountain bike enthusiasts aren’t scared off the trails when the weather gets a little cold. They live by the motto that “if it’s dry, you can ride”. All you need to do to keep in the saddle is adjust your riding wardrobe.
Park County is a popular mountain biking destination because of the abundance of trails that are appealing to all skill levels and feature several different types of terrain. Whether you ride the flow trails at Beck Lake, the sandstone outcrops in Oregon Basin or the hundreds of miles of single track carved out by cattle and wildlife, you are guaranteed to have a great ride. Some of the local favorites are the Beck Lake Trails, Slick Rock and the Outlaw Trails.
Beck Lake Trails
Featuring more than 30 miles of trails and the proximity to town, make Beck Lake Trails the most popular riding destination in the area. Fun for all skill levels, whether new to the sport or an experienced rider, you can put together a ride that will allow a workout or just a pleasant afternoon enjoying the country at the edge of town. Beginners can tune their skills at the bike park, riding the skills trail and the pump track or they can choose several trails that aren’t too technical, making this a great place to learn. Not to say that the trails do not provide more experienced riders with challenges; ranging from short punchy climbs and technical downhill; including rock gardens and features like gaps and tabletops, even the most experienced riders are sure to have a great time on these trails. Also, there is the paved course that follows the lakes edges which makes a two-mile loop which can be used by road and gravel bikers that prefer a more stable riding surface.
Local Tip: If you are visiting from an area where you don’t have cows sharing your recreational parks, you should be aware that they are kind and considerate creatures that reflect the attitude of those sharing the country with them.
Directions: Beck Lake Park is located at the end of 14th street on the south side of town. When you are pulling into the park continue straight into the large parking area at the top of the hill. In the middle of the marketing lot, on the north side, is the trail map that looks over the skills park. From here you can set off for whichever trail you choose. All the trails in this area are well marked and easy to navigate. Happy peddling.
For more information on the Beck Lake Trails visit the MTB Project.
Slick Rock Trail
Located at the edge of Oregon basin, this trail is known for its sandstone outcrops that provide riders with a more technical challenge. This is one of those trails that you can choose its difficulty based on how you decide to ride it. Choose your lines carefully because the difference of only a few feet could result in descending a clean line or dropping several feet. If you are a thrill seeker, this is your playground. If you are not an experienced rider this is still a fun trail that can increase your skill level if you are humble enough to hike a bike on the sections that you aren’t comfortable riding. Not only is this a great riding experience, but it is also very visually appealing; riding through the junipers, sagebrush and sandstone rock formations that have been carved out by the eroding wind. The views from the top of the sandstone outcrops are amazing, giving you a sort of “top of the world” feeling that is only exasperated by the excellent feeling the ride itself provides.
Local Tip: As excellent as this area is, the trail is not marked, so having navigation or a guide is very helpful. Oregon Basin is pretty wide open so you don’t take the risk of getting completely lost, however, it could result in a less than spectacular day in the saddle.
Directions: Head east from Cody on Highway 14 for a little more than 5 miles where you will turn left on Bluebird Lane. After you cross the cattle guard, you can choose to park here and ride the two track into the canyon where it meets up with the single track, or you can continue to drive the two track (if you have a vehicle capable) and drop into the trail further up the road. Once on the trail, use your nav’s to be sure you are on the right track.
For more information on Slick Rock visit the MTB Project.
Outlaw Trails
On the north end of town, at the base of Rattlesnake Mountain, is the Newton Lake recreational area. The trail system known as the Outlaw Trails is a sandstone and juniper jungle that provides mountain bikers with trails that accommodate any level of challenge. The trails on the upper ridgeline offer challenging rock obstacles that can improve a biker’s ability to choose and maintain a proper line. It is a fairly even split of uphill, downhill and level grades, making this a fun and technical ride. If you are looking for an easy, scenic ride, choose the lower Redneck Jungle Trail that travels through the canyon. Out and back, this is a pretty easy ride with only a few technical spots. If you want something a bit more technical, travel to the top of the ridgeline, riding Twisted Sister, Outlaws Greatest Hits and Above the Law. Not matter your skill level, if you are sometimes willing to hike a bike, this local favorite is sure to provide a good time.
Local Tip: This is bear country so having bear spray on you isn’t a bad idea. Even if you think you can peddle faster, don’t take the chance. It could result in a very bad day.
Directions: Head north from Cody on Highway 120 and turn left on Rd. 7WC. Just passed the shooting range and before you reach Newton Lake the trail head resides on the right. Just drive into the split in the fence and park. When you come to the end of the two track, go over the stile and choose your route. If you wish to do Outlaw you can either choose the middle trail which can be a brutal climb, or the more gradual trail up that is the furthermost left trail. If you are more interested in an easier beginner trail, drop down on the trail to the right to get on Redneck Jungle. Have fun, be safe and remember to divorce that saddle!
For more information on Outlaw Trails visit MTB Project.
Learn more about Twisted Sister and Redneck Jungle.
Riding in the winter months can be just as fun as riding in the summer months if you are properly equipped. We recommend Smartwool base layers and thermal leggings that can be worn over your chamois’. If you have sensitive ears, a wool buff that fits well under your helmet can protect you from the elements. Don’t let a little cold weather deter you from riding the trails. Bundle up and air up the tires because, until the snow starts to accumulate, and the trails are dry, fun can still be had. Don’t fall into winter depression between seasons, simply continue one until the other starts. Have fun out there!
Be sure to share you adventures with us! Take photos and post on social media, tag us @LiveWYldMag and @CodyYellostone then use #LiveWYld