Fat Biking in Breckenridge

Breckenridge Gold Run Nordic Center

With 30K of impeccably groomed classic and skate cross-country ski trails, 15K of snowshoe trails, fat biking, sleigh rides, ski lessons for all abilities, newly remodeled clubhouse, and well-stocked retail shop, the Gold Run Nordic Center promises a great time for all.  The Gold Run Nordic Center recently doubled it’s fat bike rental fleet due to the surge in fat biking popularity.   Guests can conveniently rent fat bikes at the nordic center before heading out on the trails.  A Gold Run Nordic Center pass is required to access the trails.

Groomed Trails

Fat Bikers can take advantage of the free, groomed Blue River Recreation path between Breckenridge and Frisco, and additional groomed trails in the iconic Golden Horseshoe. Recently, an additional three miles of groomed trail were added to allow guests to explore wide-open spaces and historic mining sites by snowshoe, ski, fat bike, or simply hiking on their own two feet.

Ungroomed Trails

Breckenridge has a great network of trails to choose from, many of which you can get to straight from downtown. Most fat bikers find that groomed, packed trails are needed for fat biking, so check the current conditions before heading out to be sure the trails are dry and usable. Be sure to brush up on Breckenridge’s winter trail use guidelines before you head out into the backcountry.

Fat Biking Trail Etiquette

Guided Fat Biking Tours

Sip, sample and ride on a guided fat bike tour.

Guided fat bike tours are becoming a more popular way for beginners to learn the sport and for more advanced riders to find good trails. There are even guided fat biking distillery and brewery tours for those looking to skip the woods and enjoy a scenic ride through town while sampling some tasty made in Breckenridge goods.

Fat Bike Tours

• The Breckenridge Gold Run Nordic Center offers fat biking tours on groomed snowshoe runs
• Ridden offers fat bike tours that lead to a local distillery or brewery

If you’re looking to cycle through town or hit the trails on your own, it’s easy to rent a fat bike in Breckenridge. Most bike shops and some ski rental companies will offer fat bike rentals along with gear and helmet rentals.

There are a variety of fat bike options on the market, with models that include front suspension, better components, a range of tire sizes, seat droppers, and more. Be sure to talk with the bike shop staff about your ability level and what style riding you are looking to do (trail rides, winter commuting, not sure?), and they will help you choose the right fat bike! Remember to always wear a helmet and bring gloves, water and sunscreen when fat biking Breckenridge.

Breckenridge’s trail system is extensive even throughout the winter months.Dressing for fat biking is very similar to dressing for skiing. Wear layers that you can take off if you heat up during the climbs or add on if it gets cooler. Be sure to bring your reusable water bottle and sun protection including sunscreen and sunglasses or goggles. If you don’t have winter gear or forgot something at home, there are a number of brands that make specific winter cycling apparel, which you can find at local shops around town.

Fat Biking gear checklist:

• Helmet: A mountain bike helmet works
• Hat: Lightweight beanie to wear under your helmet
• Face Buff or Balaclava: To cover your neck, chin, ears, and cheeks on a cold day
• Gloves: Adjust warmth to weather
• Shoes: Heavy duty winter cycling shoes or hiking boots
• Winter Jacket: A soft-shell or breathable coat is best
• Pants: A lightweight, breathable ski pant is best
• Thermal Layers: Be sure to wear layers – or bring them. Polyester and quick-dry materials are best
• Day Pack: To carry layers, water, snacks and sunscreen

Now get out there and start Fat Biking!