Lights
Lights are definitely applicable for trail riding
if you're not 100% sure that you'll be out of
the woods by sundown.
Your Route
It's always best not to go out alone, but if
you do, always tell someone the area/route you
plan to ride and when to expect you back. If
you plan an overnight trip, let someone know
where you'll be staying.
Hydration
Water bottles may be preferred by roadies, but
you don't have the same opportunities to refill
and refuel when on the trail. Hydration packs
are not only preferred for long trail rides,
they can be a medical necessity to keep properly
hydrated. And if you're carrying the backpack,
energy bars or other sources of packaged energy
may also be important, depending on the ride.
Spare Tubes
Carry a spare tube and patch kit. The patch
kit will fix a small pinhole, but it's reassuring
to have an entire tube on hand for a major blowout.
If you blow out a tire sidewall, a good way
to patch it is with duct tape, so carry a small
roll. Many riders prefer to carry the extra
tube, tools, and compact pump in a pack, since
the constant jarring from the rough terrain
has a tendency to break the mounting devices
for these things.
Face/Skin Protection
Carry insect repellent and sunscreen. Wear eye
protection, even if you don't wear prescription
glasses. You will need protection from sticks,
branches, insects, and flying debris.
Clothing
Carry a longsleeve tee shirt made of modern
wicking fabric in case the weather turns bad.
These shirts are lightweight, compressible and
can fit in small packs. Remember, you're riding
in the mountains a lot of times and weather
can change quickly in those settings.
Trail Etiquette
• Always respect private property owner's
rights.
• Bikers yield to all other trail users.
• Do not ride trails posted as "no
biking".
• The AT is universally off-limits.
• Do not ride during extremely wet conditions
so that environmental impacts are minimized.
• Know the rules when riding on public
lands such as state parks or game lands.
• Never leave litter on the trails.
