There is a simple, unwritten law of the mountain lifestyle: you earn your turns. Well, at least this is the case for us purists and not those who show up in fur and haven’t done anything but their hair all day. While we usually associate the earn your turns mantra with untracked winter powder, the exact same playbook applies when the snow melts and the dirt emerges. Ride hard, then drink local craft beer.
As we near the end of mud season (in some areas of the U.S.) the mountain bike trails dry out and the summer riding season shifts into high gear. Just like après ski the post-bike ride gathering has become an art form in its own right. Just like in winter, cold pints, outdoor patios and food truck tacos are waiting to be consumed at the end of the trailhead.
If you are looking to combine premium singletrack with world-class post-ride festivities, these are the best après bike scenes in America right now.
1. Bend, Oregon
Nothing beats Bend when it comes to the mountain biking and craft beverage crossover. It’s almost as if they invented it. Access to the extensive Phil’s Trail network begins right in town and from there you can transition from single track superstar to a IPA icon within minutes.
- The Ride: Phil’s Trail complex has it all. From smooth, flowy singletrack to the technical features of the Whoops the trail system is fast, dusty, and incredibly fun.
- The Scene: With roughly 30 breweries in the area, Bend’s beer culture is tough to beat. Crux Fermentation Project is a prime post ride spot to chill. Crux Features a sprawling lawn where riders, dogs, and families gather. Basically a community living room it’s ideal for watching the sunset over the Cascades with an ice-cold pilsner or hazy IPA in hand. Deschutes Brewing and 10 Barrel East or West Side are also excellent options for perfect pints and tasty food to end your ride with.
2. Moab, Utah
Bend may have the beers but one can argue that Moab is the mecca of mountain biking. Technical and rugged riding demands everything from your bike and body, ensuring you earn your post ride rewards. Naturally, the après scene here is worthy and designed to help you recover and rehydrate in the desert heat.
- The Ride: From the high-alpine exposure of The Whole Enchilada to the rolling slickrock playground at Navajo Rocks, Moab is an absolute mountain biking bucket list destination.
- The Scene: Navigating the drops of Captain Ahab or the steep rolls of the Slickrock Trail, you have earned the right to hang on either of the patios at Moab Brewery or The Spoke on Center. They are just what the doctor ordered. Nothing beats a cold Moab Rocket Bike American lager, a massive portion of comfort food, and swapping stories about surviving the drop-in.
3. Crested Butte, Colorado
Crested Butte is often regarded as one of the true birthplaces of mountain biking. It flawlessly pairs the legendary high-alpine singletrack with close-knit mountain town culture that knows exactly how to end the day celebrating a big ride.
- The Ride: The iconic 401 Trail is an intermediate to advanced ride known for breathtaking views of alpine meadows and an exhilarating descent. Or, you stay close to town (and the beer) and test your endurance on the Lower Loop and the more technical Teocalli Ridge.
- The Scene: Honestly you can’t go wrong with any of the locations on the town’s vibrant, colorful main drag. It is lined with places to kick back. Head over to The Secret Stash to refuel with world-class post-ride pizzas and Pils. You should also check out The Eldo Brewery and Taphouse. It’s a classic local favorite with unique architecture that only adds to your enjoyment of hearty comfort food, craft pints, and the lively patio chatter about the day’s epic climbing.
Final Thoughts on the Best Après Bike Scenes in America
The playbook is simple: load your bike, test your limits on the trail, and head straight for a well-deserved cold beverage. Whether you find yourself deep in the high desert or cruising through the alpine trees, these destinations define what it means to celebrate the ride properly.
About the Author
Rich Stoner is the founder of the après-ski lifestyle clothing and media brand, All About Après. He is also the co-host of the Après All Day Podcast. No stranger to the ski and après-ski scene, Rich has been a long time contributor for many publications on topics like skiing, travel, gear, beer and food. However, his passion is on the slopes and enjoying good times with good people. You can find him perfecting his craft carving turns and drinking beers in the Green Mountains of Vermont. @allaboutapres