Biking
There are thousands of miles of trails and roads in the Apache-Sitgreaves.
Mountain Biking
Just looking at the Forest map should make it apparent that the opportunities to go mountain biking are almost limitless. Many of the roads that crisscross the Forests are made to order for these sturdy all-terrain bicycles that have evolved as a hybrid of the old balloon tired cruiser and the sleek ten-speed racer. There are jeep tracks, logging roads, and little used forest roads where motorized traffic is infrequent enough not to interfere with bike riding. The best way to find these unmarked bonanzas is to get a Forest map and start looking for the double dotted lines or unshaded double solid lines that indicate primitive roads or dirt roads. The next step is to pick out the ones which lead to places that look to be of interest to you. If you have the time and inclination, this way of approaching the situation is a bit like discovering the forest all over again and seeing it from a brand new perspective in the process.
Who's Got the Right of Way
If you end up riding on a trail, keep in mind that bicyclists should yield both to horseback riders and hikers. That means when you encounter one of these other trail users, it is up to you to pull over to the side of the trail and stop until you have completely been passed.
And Don't Forget
When you bring your mountain bike to the forests, don't forget to bring along all of the support equipment you'll need to make sure your ride is a pleasant one. First and foremost that includes a helmet.
- Helmet and riding gloves
- Tool kit
- Extra tire tube (or patch kit) and pump (at least one per group)
- Matches and a knife
- First aid kit
- Water (lots and lots)
- Sunscreen
- Extra clothing layers
- Rain gear, especially in late summer
- Glasses are particularly helpful during the "bug season."