The Vail Valley offers an incredible array of biking opportunities for cycling enthusiasts and beginners alike. Whether you choose to challenge yourself physically with a mountain bike excursion, take a leisurely jaunt along one of the many bike paths in town on a road bike, or explore the Valley on a guided tour, atop a bike is one of the best ways to experience Vail. Keep in mind when choosing your bike adventure that the air is thin at this altitude, so trips with big elevation climbs can be very challenging. Another option is to get a ride up to elevation (i.e. take the gondola to the top of the mountain, or sign up for a van ride to the top of Vail pass) and enjoy a nice coast to the bottom, bypassing the really hard parts. 
 Vendors throughout the Valley offer a multitude of service options. From rental packages (which typically include all the safety equipment you need) to guided tours, you can find a vendor that will fit your biking needs, no matter your level of experience. Many rental shops offer a wide range of bike options: from comfort bikes (sometimes referred to as beach cruisers) to road bikes to front or full suspension mountain bikes, you’ll likely find what you need if you shop around. Many vendors take online reservations, which is a good idea to minimize your time in the shop and maximize your time on the road when you get to town. If you’re planning a ride with the family, you can also pick up a "child trailer," which is attached to an adult bike and provides a comfortable ride for the little ones. Whether you are renting equipment or came to town with your own ride, you must always wear a helmet when biking, so make sure you have one. Many riders also like to wear biking gloves for hand comfort on the brakes check with you vendor to see if they can rent or sell you a pair, or make arrangements to bring your own. Another nice extra on a bike: padded bike shorts. These are available for purchase in most bike shops, but call ahead to be sure, or visit your local sporting goods store in advance to be sure you have a well-fitted pair for your ride. See "What to Wear - What to Bring"