Mountain Biking - Winter trip

The riding around Northern Virginia has been pretty dismal this season with all the rain we've had (and continue to get). Just this last week found the trails in the best shape they've been in all summer, but it'll start getting cold and dark soon limiting my riding. I'm thinking of some winter mountain biking, possibly in Arizona or Southern California. I'm unfamiliar with the trails out West but don't want to do the whole "guided tour" thing. I'm an intermediate/advanced rider who's looking for good day trips on reasonably challenging single track with beautiful views. I'm thinking of visiting for 4 to 5 days and will stay in a hotel and rent a car. I might hook up with a local group or individuals who are familiar with a given area. Can anyone recommend a location/city with trail recommendations?

Thanks in advance

If your going to spend the money - and go soon - try Moab. It's not a place I'd like to live, but a fantasic place to ride. A few years ago I went about this time of the year and it was great. Not too hot, not too cold. Last yeay I went during December - a bit cold, but still fun. Plus Fruita CO is only a 2hr drive away - more great stuff.

As sscyco said try and get to Moab. One hell of a great place. Also, check out Bootleg Cyn. in NV. BOOTLEG CYN (http://www.bootlegcanyon.com/).

If you get out to LA drop me a line and I can either show you or atleast point you in the right direction.

:beer:

Just like to add that I'm biking in Moab for the first time over this coming Thanksgiving break. I'm very excited. We're going to camp the whole time too. There's 12 of us going. Watch out!

I love both Utah and Washington, but Virginia isn't that bad most years you can ride alll winter. Yes last winter was too crusty on top of the snow , but most years an MTB can go just fine all winter.

Joe