No matter what the temperature will be the key to success and comfort will be dressing in layers and avoiding cotton clothing.

If you are already familiar with running in winter conditions or cross country skiing then just dress like that for winter biking; with a little more attention to protecting yourself from the wind, being aware that your hat will have to fit under a helmet, and that you should only need something light like glove liners since the handlebar mits are the warmest on the market.

Bring thick warm gloves for when you are off the bike, and extra layers, like a fleece top, for dressing up warmer on the trail. If you sweat a lot consider a change of dry clothes for the end of the ride.

In general: non-cotton layers (for base layers and for fill layers), non-cotton socks, winter jacket and pants or snow pants, neck gaiter or scarf, warm hiking boots, and making sure the whole outfit is comfortable to move around and be active in. Also recommended: extra non-cotton layers, insulated water bottle, sun glasses, and a camera.

What is the Aurora? What causes it? When can I see it? For great information on the Aurora visit the UAF Geophysical page! And if you want to get even more scientific look at the NOAA site too.

With the bears sleeping through the winter months the primary safety concern are the moose: they are large and powerful animals! And quite simply…. don’t approach them! If you encounter a moose don’t make any sudden movements, don’t approach it, slowly back away from it and give it plenty of space. They get the right-of-way! If a moose approaches you get away from it as quickly as you can, and if it charges or chases you run away!