Pumpkin Head Bike Ride Returns To Marin County

FARIFAX, CA — The annual Pumpkin Head Ride is back for more spooky on spokes in Marin County.

There is only one rule to the Pumpkin Head Ride and that is you must have a lit pumpkin strapped to the top of your helmet.

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The group typically departs from The Java Hut/Good Earth parking lot just after 7 p.m.

The usual route involves riding through town to Glen Drive, ascending the Loma Alta Fire Road, crossing over to the 680 Trail, and then descending onto Butterfield. Most pause at the knoll south of the 680 crest for views before continuing.

The ride concludes back in Fairfax for post-ride beers at local bars. However, sub-groups frequently diverge to explore other options.

The trail, a manageable climb for Marin, is best taken slowly. The descent combines fire road, single-track, and switchbacks. You'll need good handlebar or helmet lights, plus your pumpkin light.

For those who rode last year and can find their pumpkin, bring it.

But for less than $10 and half-an-hour, you can make your own
pumpkin head.

All you need is:

• Plastic Pumpkin Pail - 8 inches or greater diameter
• Led closet light or similar
• One or more zip ties long enough to attach the pumpkin to a helmet.

Steps to make the pumpkin head:

1. Use epoxy or strong double-sided tape, such as 3M Extreme Mounting Tape, to attach the light inside the pumpkin. If needed, rough up the surfaces with sandpaper for better adhesion.
2. To attach the pumpkin, cut two slits in its base and thread a zip tie through them. While one zip tie is sufficient, using two will provide greater stability and reduce wobbling.
3. Thread zip ties through helmet vents, cinching them tightly. Ensure the bulky part of the zip tie is in the pumpkin or a vent, not rubbing your head, for a comfortable ride.

For more info visit pumpkinride.com.