Leaves can be a big factor riding in the woods in the fall. Safety becomes a concern in deep leaves, and be prepared for the unexpected. Gullies, erosion areas, and washes seem to accumulate the most leaves in the forest, and they represent a hazard.

It can be fun to ride in the leaves, but difficult to detect the underlying obstacles and terrain features. Watch out for covered roots and rocks. If riding in a gully, the side will have less rocks than the middle, but the angle will cause the bike to "surf" sideways and skid slightly as you go along. The middle, or bottom of the gully, is easier to balance in, and you will skid less. However, this is where the rocks are likely to be, and you probably can't see them. Going downhill can be downright dangerous as you may lose traction and/or hit a rock and have the front wheel stop or get deflected. Exercise caution, go slowly, maintain balance if the front wheel skids sideways, and be prepared to hit submerged obstacles. Keep your weight back and feet on the pedals and wrists low on the bars. Hitting a log at a 45 degree angle that is under six inches of leaves almost guarantees a fall.

A thin layer of damp or wet leaves can be almost like riding on ice. Avoid any sudden movements, be gentle on the brakes and cautious when on the brake levers, no quick turns, and keep your weight centered on the bike. Steer slowly around curves. Be prepared for a front wheel "skid out" and ride as nimbly as possible. Leaves can be a lot of fun for the careful rider, as well as create a beautiful and colorful trail surface, so go out and enjoy them while they are there! Enjoy the fall Colorfest!