Each spring, riders from around the country gather in western Colorado for one of the most exciting and community-driven biking events in the region — the Fruita Fat Tire Festival. Held in the charming town of Fruita, this multi-day celebration of mountain biking blends epic desert trails, cutting-edge gear demos, live music, and local flavor into an unforgettable experience for riders of all skill levels.
What Is the Fruita Fat Tire Festival
The Fruita Fat Tire Festival is an annual mountain biking festival that takes place in Fruita, Colorado, typically during the first weekend of May. Unlike a race, this event focuses on fun, exploration, and connection — both with the landscape and the community. It offers demo rides, group trail rides, biking clinics, and an outdoor expo, all in one of the country’s most beloved biking destinations.
Why Bikers Love the Fruita Fat Tire Festival
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Incredible Trail Access: Ride the legendary 18 Road Trails and Kokopelli Loops, known for their slickrock drops, smooth rollers, and scenic views of the Colorado Plateau.
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Test the Best Gear: Demo the newest bikes and gear from major industry brands and talk directly with the pros.
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A Festival for Everyone: Whether you’re a beginner learning the ropes or a seasoned shredder seeking flow, there’s something for every level.
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Local Vibe: Enjoy Fruita’s small-town energy with food trucks, local brews, live music, and friendly faces all weekend long.
Highlights of the Fruita Fat Tire Festival
Guided Group Rides
Explore Fruita’s iconic singletrack with the help of local experts. These rides are grouped by skill level, making it easy to find your flow.
Bike Demos and Clinics
Demo the latest mountain bikes and gear directly on real trails. Want to level up your skills? Sign up for clinics covering everything from cornering to drops.
Downtown Expo and Entertainment
When you’re not on the trail, wander Fruita’s lively downtown, where vendor booths, live bands, beer gardens, and food trucks keep the energy high.
Scenic Riding with a Side of Culture
The Fruita Fat Tire Festival isn’t just about biking—it’s about celebrating a lifestyle. You’ll ride past red rock canyons, desert wildflowers, and historic terrain while enjoying the warmth of a tight-knit biking community.
What You Need to Know Before You Go
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Dates: First weekend of May (check the official site for exact dates)
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Location: Downtown Fruita and 18 Road Trails
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Tickets: Purchase festival passes early to save; demo and group ride passes are available separately
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What to Bring: Helmet, hydration pack, sunscreen, valid ID for demos, and your adventurous spirit
Tips for First-Time Attendees
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Arrive Early: Morning demo lines fill up fast, especially for popular bikes
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Try Something New: Even if you love your current ride, take the chance to try different frame styles or suspension setups
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Explore the Town: Don’t miss Fruita’s cafes, bike shops, and murals while you’re in town
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Camp or Stay Local: Options include nearby campgrounds, local hotels, or short-term rentals — book early, it fills up quickly
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re a hardcore mountain biker or someone just getting into the sport, the Fruita Fat Tire Festival is the perfect blend of action, education, and celebration. It’s not just about riding bikes—it’s about experiencing the unique vibe of Fruita, meeting people who love the ride as much as you do, and creating memories that last far beyond the trail.
So mark your calendar, tune up your bike, and get ready for an epic ride through the heart of Colorado’s high desert. The Fruita Fat Tire Festival is waiting.