Crank Yanker IPA (Eddyline Brewery, Buena Vista, CO)
While visiting Greg in Salida last summer I got a chance to sample the Crank Yanker IPA and it was crisp, refreshing, and tasty–basicially everything I want from a trail beer. No shame in splitting this 16 ounce can with a buddy–at 7.8 about 7% ABV, a Crank Yanker will have your legs feeling fine in no time.
Dale’s Pale Ale (Oskar Blues Brewery, Longmont, CO)
Dale’s is easily my favorite pale ale and as far as I know, it’s only offered in cans (well, kegs too, but those are too heavy for the trail). Oskar Blues even operates a farm in North Carolina complete with mountain bike trails and a hops farm outside Dupont State Forest!
Descender IPA (Good Life Brewing Company, Bend, OR)
Bend is well-known for its incredible mountain biking AND craft beer so the Descender is a no-brainer. Plus, who doesn’t like descending?
Faceplant IPA (Lost Rhino Brewing Company, Ashburn, VA)
The name (and accompanying illustration) say it all.
Fat Tire Amber Ale (New Belgium Brewing Company, Fort Collins, CO)
The original mountain bikers’ craft beer is available pretty much wherever you find yourself riding, and is a safe choice if you’re trying to fit in with the MTB crowd.
Golden Trout Pilsner (Mammoth Brewing Company, Mammoth Lakes, CA)
For those who aren’t into pale ales, the Golden Trout Pilsner is a good choice. At 4.2% ABV you can afford to pack a couple of these and use them to stay hydrated.
