Riding Jackson Hole’s bike trails is an invitation to engage with landscapes that are fiercely themselves—rivers daring you to keep pace, forests whispering ancient secrets, and ridgelines stretching wide under an ever-changing sky. Whether you’re steady on two wheels or testing your limits, the region’s 70-plus miles of pathways offer something for every rider. Balancing adventure with preparation will ensure your time on these trails is both exhilarating and safe.

Start by choosing a route matching your skill and stamina. The Valley Trail, a mostly paved trail system weaving through Jackson Hole, is ideal for casual cyclists with gentle elevation gains of under 200 feet along its 14-mile stretch. For more challenge, the Moose-Wilson Road corridor presents rougher terrain and moderate climbs, with gravel and single-track sections rising 700 feet over approximately 10 miles.

Footwear and bike choice impact comfort heavily. Durable mountain or hybrid bikes with sturdy tires handle variable terrain better than road bikes. Pair that with well-padded gloves and helmets designed for fit and ventilation. Jackson Hole’s altitude (over 6,200 feet) means your body feels strain faster—pace yourself and focus on hydration. Water bottles, or even a hydration pack, should be mandatory, especially in summer heat.

Timing rides early morning or late afternoon not only avoids midday sun but also lets you experience wildlife at their most active—elk grazing near the trail edges, moose moving through marshes, or hawks circling above. The light then enhances views of the Tetons, whose jagged summits cut sharply into the horizon.

Dress in layers. Weather changes quickly here: a sudden mountain breeze can chill you, while midday can warm enough for shorts and a breathable jersey. Gloves and eye protection serve as essentials to shield from dust and branches along narrower paths. A compact first-aid kit tucked in your backpack is a wise precaution.

Respect the land. Trails exhibit both the beauty and the challenge of wilderness held fiercely to its terms. Stick to marked paths to avoid damaging fragile alpine vegetation and to keep the balance between human activity and nature’s intent. Check trail conditions at local ranger stations or visitor centers prior to departure.

Jackson Hole’s trails demand attention, respect, and preparation, but they reward with expansive panoramas, the rush of natural Colorado currents, and the thrill of meeting terrain on your own terms. Prepare thoroughly, ride smart, and let the environment’s energy recharge your spirit.