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Bike park Safety

pajarito bike park safety

Pajarito Bike park Safety Starts with You

Safety is your responsibility. Learn Pajarito mountain bike park safety, how to ride smart and understand your code of responsibility to enhance your mountain biking experience and get the most out of your time on the mountain.

Pajarito’s High Altitude Environment

At a 10,000′ elevation, exposure to the sun is much greater. Wear sunscreen and eye protection while on the mountain. Those who live at a lower elevation may experience altitude sickness when visiting the mountain. Symptoms may include nausea, headaches, loss of appetite, or difficulty breathing. Seek medical attention if symptoms persist.

Emergency or Medical Attention

Injuries are common while mountain biking and a part of the sport. While on the mountain you should:

  • carry a cell phone, and
  • have a local emergency contact available.

If you get lost or have an emergency, call 505-662-1991 AND stay on the line until all information has been gathered.

Riding Smart

Slow down before you speed up. Ride the trail multiple times to get familiar with the features and equipment you are on so you can more confidently increase your skills without exceeding your limits.

pajarito bike park safety

Pre-Ride:  Start slow, scope out every feature, every day. Trails change daily.

Re-Ride:  Lap the trail a few times to get to know the flow of the features

Free-Ride:  Start small and work your way up to faster speeds and larger features.

According to our friends at the National Ski Areas Association (NSAA) and Colorado Ski Country USA (CSCUSA), using and riding chairlifts in a responsible manner is one of the primary safety considerations for ALL skiers and snowboarders.

Mountain Bikers Responsibility Code

  1. Stay in control at all times. It is your responsibility to avoid other persons and objects around you.
  2. When entering a trail or starting downhill, you should look uphill and yield to other riders.
  3. Stay on marked trails. Do not cut switchbacks.
  4. Do not stop where you obstruct the trail or are not visible from above.
  5. Keep off closed areas and obey all signs and warnings.
  6. Please assist if you are involved in or witness a collision or accident and identify yourself to the Bike Patrol.
  7. Stay off lifts and away from the Bike Park if your ability is impaired through the use of drugs or alcohol.
  8. You must have sufficient dexterity, ability, and knowledge to safely ride and unload lifts. If in doubt, ask the attendant.
  9. Hiking in the Bike Park is not permitted during hours of operation. During hours of operation hiking is restricted to Aspeñola and Aspen For Trouble. 
  10. Do not feed, provoke or approach wildlife
mountain biker's responsibility code
Watch the NSAA Mountain Biker’s Responsibility Code video.

Mountain Bike Checklist

Always inspect your equipment or have it checked by a qualified bike mechanic before riding and periodically during the day.

  • Ensure your helmet is in good shape and properly adjusted.
  • Inspect bike frame for cracks, damaged or dented areas.
  • Ensure you have sufficient brake pads to stop while descending.
  • Inspect front and rear axles (skewers) to make sure they are properly tightened.
  • Jiggle headset and stem and feel for looseness or play. Tighten headset if it feels loose.
  • Check that tires are in good condition, with no tears or cuts in the sidewall.
  • Ensure seat and seat post is fastened securely.

If you have any doubt about your bike’s parts or condition, you should check with a qualified bicycle mechanic for further advice.

Helmets

Helmets are mandatory while riding in the bike park. Full face helmets are strongly recommended when riding the lift served trails, even if you only plan to ride the green trails.

Lightning & Thunderstorms

Lightning and thunderstorms are common in the mountains. Storms generally occur in the afternoon and may cause the lift to be on hold for a brief amount of time.

Trail Closures

It is your responsibility to know what trails are open and what trails are closed. Trails can be closed with a rope or a “Closed” sign at the most likely entrance onto a trail which is usually at the top. Ending up on a closed trail could result in your biking privileges being suspended.

Fire Danger

Smoking is prohibited on all lifts and is discouraged on-mountain due to potential fire danger. Your actions can reduce the risk from wildfire to homes and communities.

Drone Policy

In the interest of the health, welfare and safety for our guests, employees, and property, Pajarito Mountain strictly prohibits the unauthorized use of drones and all other remote-controlled aircraft on its property. This prohibition includes, but is not limited to, Aircraft launched off-site that travels anywhere on or above Pajarito Mountain. Exception to this prohibition may be requested to the Marketing Department. Please send requests here.

On Mountain Vehicles

Trucks, UTV’s, ATV’s and other equipment may be encountered on the trails at any time. Stay clear. Give them space!

Power Pass Resorts