Mountain Biking Alone: 9 Things I Do to Stay Safe on the Trail

1. I Always Let Someone Know Where I’m Going

Even if I’m just sneaking out for a quick ride, I usually make it a point to text a friend or family member where I’m headed. If it’s a more remote place, I’ll send them a pin of the trailhead and a rough idea of my route. And I always follow up once I’m back at the car.

If I’m riding somewhere more remote or out of cell service, I’ll turn on location sharing through Strava so someone can track me in real-time.

After listening to the Out Alive podcast episode “Alone and Injured in the Wild” I realized how important it is to tell someone where you’re going!

2. I Carry What I Need (and Know How to Use It)

Over the years, I’ve had enough flats, broken chains, and minor crashes to know that being self-sufficient is key. Below is what I carry on every solo ride (also check out my post on what to carry in your pack).

• A multi-tool
• Tubeless plug kit
• Spare tube and tire levers
• Mini pump or CO2 head and cartridge
• Spare quick link and valve cores
• Zip ties
• Basic first aid (gauze, bandages, tape, etc.)
• Snacks and water (I always pack more than I think I’ll need)
• SaltStick electrolyte tabs
• Emergency whistle
• Lightweight shell in case the weather turns

If I’m riding far out into the backcountry, I’ll bring my inReach Mini for emergency comms. It gives me peace of mind knowing I can call for help if I really need it.

3. I Don’t Push My Limits

When I’m riding solo, I dial things back a bit. I don’t try new jumps, huck off blind drops, or go exploring trails I know nothing about. I like to ride hard, sure, but I keep it within a comfort zone that feels safe. If I come across a feature that makes me pause or second-guess, I’ll walk it or skip it entirely. No ego here, especially when no one’s watching!

4. I Set a Comfortable Pace

Riding solo isn’t about hammering. I give myself permission to ride slower, take breaks, or hike-a-bike if something feels off. When there’s no one else around, there’s zero pressure to “keep up,” and that helps me stay more relaxed and make smarter decisions. I’ve learned that staying within a sustainable pace is not just more enjoyable, it’s safer too.

5. I Trust My Gut

This one’s big. If something feels off, whether it’s a weird noise from my bike, a sketchy vibe in the parking lot, or just a general sense of unease, I listen to that feeling. I’ve turned around before just because something didn’t sit right. I’d rather ride another day than ignore my intuition.

6. I Know My Route & Ride Stats

Before I head out, I take a few minutes to look at my map (usually TrailForks), check elevation gain, mileage, and estimated ride time. I ask myself questions like: How remote is it? Will there be cell service? How technical is the trail? Are there bailout options if I need to cut it short?

Having a general sense of the ride I’m planning on doing and how long I’ll be out makes a huge difference in how prepared I feel and helps avoid those “I thought it was just 10 miles…” kind of situations.

7. I Always Have A Map

Even if I think I know the area, I never rely on memory alone, especially on longer or unfamiliar rides. I always have a map with me, whether it’s a downloaded offline map on Trailforks (my go-to), MTB Project, or Komoot. For big rides, I’ll use my Garmin Edge computer so I don’t have to keep pulling my phone out of my pocket to check the map.

9. I Plan for the Unexpected

Even on familiar trails, I’ve learned to expect the unexpected, whether that’s a surprise storm, a crash, or a mechanical. I always pack a little more food, water, and layers than I think I’ll need. I also make sure my phone is fully charged (and on airplane mode if I’m out of service) to conserve battery. Having a little buffer makes a big difference if something goes sideways.

9. I Make Sure My Bike is Dialed Before I Go

I always give my bike a quick check before solo rides (and every ride!). Tire pressure, brakes, shifting, suspension… anything that could potentially leave me stranded. A few minutes in the parking lot is a lot better than walking your bike out five miles with a mechanical that could’ve been prevented.

10. I Embrace the Solitude

Honestly, solo rides have become something I crave. They help me reset, work through thoughts, or just enjoy the quiet. There’s no pressure to perform, no one setting the pace – it’s just me doing what I love.

That said, solo riding isn’t something I take lightly. With a little extra planning and a few safety habits, I’ve found it can be both safe and incredibly rewarding.