As winter starts to loosen its grip around Nanaimo, it’s tempting to jump back on the trails the moment the snow disappears. But this shoulder season is when trails are most vulnerable — thanks to freeze–thaw cycles.
Here’s what’s happening beneath your tires 👇
Overnight, moisture in the soil freezes and expands, loosening the dirt. When daytime temperatures rise (even just above freezing), that frozen ground begins to thaw from the top down.
The result → A soft, muddy surface sitting on top of still-frozen soil.
When trails are frozen solid, they’re usually fine to ride.
When they’re thawing, they’re not.
🚫 Why riding during freeze–thaw causes damage
• Tires and boots create ruts in softened soil
•˜Ruts trap water instead of shedding it
• Trails take longer to dry and slowly become sunken “trenches”
• Water starts flowing down the trail instead of off it
Even bench-cut trails on Nanaimo’s side slopes can suffer once water gets channelized.
🌲 Local reality check
Trail conditions can change fast:
• Frozen in the morning
• Muddy in sunny sections by midday
• Drying again by evening
South-facing slopes, clear-cuts, and exposed sections often thaw first — and take the most damage.
✅ How to be trail-smart right now
• If your bike is collecting mud or leaving ruts → turn around
• Avoid riding during warm afternoons after frosty nights
• Check weather and trail updates before heading out
• When in doubt, save the ride and come out for trail maintenance instead
💚 Remember
Our trails don’t maintain themselves. Every scar left during freeze–thaw season is fixed later by volunteers. Giving trails time now means better riding all season long.
Thanks for doing your part to protect Nanaimo’s trails 🙏
