Area mountain bike ride promotes sober wellness and unity

A unique mountain bike ride aims to bring attention to mental health, addiction recovery and the physical and emotional benefits of sober living, all while celebrating the stunning natural beauty of the Crested Butte mountain trails. The rides are a collaboration between Crested Butte State of Mind and Zach Dutra, an avid mountain biker who is himself in longterm recovery.

"I have the lived experience of being sober and so many of the activities we enjoy are steeped in drinking culture, skiing, many mountain bike races are sponsored by breweries or they start and end at breweries,” Dutra said. “Climbing as well. For the vast majority of people there is no issue for them and I don't have anything against that. But for people like me in recovery, and who don't partake at the end of a bike ride or climb, this is just a way for us [sober people] to do these same activities."

Unlike typical rides, these are distinguished by their focus on sobriety and mental well-being, creating a supportive atmosphere where riders could connect, find motivation and embrace a healthier lifestyle.`

All are welcome to participate in the rides. There is just no alcohol present. There is no self identification of participants as being in recovery. Rather, cyclists just show up and ride without alcohol or drugs.

Participants of all ages and skill levels gathered early Saturday morning, ready to embark on a scenic mountain bike journey through some of Crested Butte’s most iconic trails. Unlike typical rides, this event was distinguished by its focus on sobriety and mental well-being, creating a supportive atmosphere where riders could connect, find motivation and embrace a healthier lifestyle.

Organized by local recovery groups and supported by community sponsors, the ride underscores the importance of physical activity as a positive outlet for those in recovery or looking to improve their mental health. The serene and challenging mountain terrain was the perfect backdrop for riders to push their limits, find peace, and build camaraderie.

The Hartman Rocks rides is geared to all levels of experience and Dutra said this is a "no rider left behind ride."  

The next sober ride will be on June 27 and will meet at the four-way stop in Crested Butte at 9 a.m.

Kara Thompson, one of the ride’s organizers and a longtime advocate for addiction awareness, said: “This event is about more than just mountain biking. It’s a celebration of courage, resilience, and the journey towards self-empowerment. Being surrounded by nature and supportive peers helps participants realize they are not alone, and that there is strength in community.”

The ride concluded with a community gathering at a local park, where riders and supporters enjoyed healthy refreshments and participated in discussions about ongoing recovery resources. Inspirational speakers shared their personal stories, highlighting the transformative power of connection and lifestyle changes promoted by sober activities.

By combining the thrill of mountain biking with a clear message of hope and health, the Crested Butte of Mind sober mountain bike ride continues to foster a space where people can enjoy outdoor recreation while championing mental wellness and sober living.

As the event grows in popularity, organizers hope to expand its reach, encouraging more communities to adopt similar initiatives that promote healthy living, mental health awareness and addiction recovery through the power of nature and sport.