A Seasonal Fusion Like No Other!
There's never a lack of fun to be had in Colorado. From biking to skiing and so much more, the state is full of awesome outdoor activities, no matter what season it is! I have personally grown to love the transitional seasons out here. While spring always felt a bit lackluster to me in the past, since moving to Colorado nearly 3 years ago, I've really embraced it. I love how long the ski season lasts and that I can spend my weekends hiking and skiing. Although there may be snow sticking around on some trails (it takes a while in some places), there's still a lot of dry land to explore, while I can also savor my time on the slopes a little longer.
My boyfriend loves mountain biking and has been trying to ride throughout the year, which is definitely possible if you do your research to find dry trails. He's even been planning a day where he can ski and bike on the same day! One awesome way to celebrate the changing seasons is by doing just that at A-Basin's Slush 'N Spokes.
A-Basin is a favorite mountain for many skiers and boarders in Colorado. It is known for its awesome local vibe, fun and challenging terrain, and spring skiing. A-Bay is for the people! It's very characteristic of them to organize an event that intentionally combines snow and biking, capturing the essence of mountain enthusiasts.
What Is Slush 'N Spokes?
While winter bikers may check the trails for minimal snow, the point of this unique event is to actually bike on the snow (or slush, since it's spring). It's a true celebration of the Colorado lifestyle. The 60 participating mountain bikers will ride down High Noon, a blue ski run (and an alcoholic beverage). Not only is this a fun bike ride on interesting terrain, but it's also a race! So, this is an awesome chance for some friendly competition, a special ride, and a great way to make new friends in the mountain biking community.
The Slush 'N Spokes event takes place on May 11, 2024. The mountain is still open for winter sports (it is open until June), and ski operations will continue that day. The race starts at 4:30 p.m. after the lifts stop running.
When gearing up for this adrenaline-pumping race, there are a few critical things to keep in mind to ensure your safety and compliance with race regulations. First and foremost, you're able to bring any bike of your choosing—be it fat, downhill, trail, or any other—as long as it's equipped with two rubber tires, strictly avoids ice spikes, and operates under the power of your own two legs, meaning no e-bikes allowed. Safety cannot be overstated, so wearing a helmet is a requirement, and while it’s not mandatory, padding yourself with additional protective gear is highly recommended.
This thrilling event is inclusive, proudly welcoming participants of all genders aged 12 and up. Kicking off the competition, the first lap serves as a practice run within a small group, providing a perfect opportunity to familiarize yourself with the course. The excitement peaks with a mass start, Le-Mans style, setting the stage for a memorable race.
Schedule Breakdown
- 1–3:30 p.m.: Live music at the base
- 3–4 p.m.: Competitors sign-in in Guest Services
- 4 p.m.: Safety Talk and AT bike shuttles start
- 4:15 p.m.: Competitors load BMX
- 4:30–6:30 p.m.: Live music at the base
- 4:30–6 p.m.: Small group practice laps
- 6:30 p.m.: Final Race
- 7:15 p.m.: Awards in Mountain Goat Plaza
A Toast to the Adventurous Spirit of the Rockies
The Slush 'N Spokes event epitomizes the spirit of Colorado's adventurous lifestyle. It's a celebration of community, adventure, and the joy of experiencing the great outdoors across seasons. At Slush 'N Spokes, every turn brings a new adventure, and every race down the mountain is a toast to the spirit of the Rockies.
While I won't be participating in this event, as I'm not a mountain biker, I plan to ski while the lifts are running and cheer on my boyfriend as he bikes down the mountain! I can't wait to experience this awesome event.
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