A typical day on the mountain biking tour begins with the sun still on the horizon. The aroma of freshly brewed coffee fills the air, setting the stage for a hot breakfast. Afterward, the camp is broken down, gearing up for the day’s ride. Guides provide insights into the day’s route, ensuring participants are well-prepared for the journey. One guide accompanies you on the ride, while the other ensures seamless support, either on the route or strategically meeting at lunch or camp. Lunch is a trailside affair, usually served from the support truck. Returning to camp in the mid to late afternoon, comfortable tents are set up, and participants refresh with hot washcloths or solar showers. As the day winds down, appetizers precede an abundant dinner. Evenings are a time for stargazing and sharing stories before retreating to your tent.
To join these Kokopelli guided MTB trips, you have to be in excellent physical shape. You should have extensive experience in mountain biking and enough stamina for sustained climbs and for covering 20 miles (31 km) a day on average. That said, the 3-day tour is generally easier because it’s shorter. Over 3 days, riders cover around 60 miles (97 km) in total and on the toughest day, the elevation gain is 2,230 ft (680 m). The 5-day tour includes 100 miles (161 km) of riding in total, equally spread over 5 days.
Keep in mind that you will always have a guide by your side to assess your fitness, encourage you, monitor your technique and help you if you encounter any difficulties. You’ll also be followed by a support vehicle to make the experience safe and enjoyable even if you’re not able to finish a certain section.
To prepare, we suggest doing a lot of cardiovascular exercises and strength training in the weeks prior to the adventure. Needless to stay, you should also try spending your weekends in the saddle whenever possible, especially in hilly terrain and on singletracks.