What are the best mountain bike trails in the USA? This age-old question is incredibly subjective and without a solid and measurable answer. It all depends on who you ask, what you like to ride, and what type of bike you ride … the list could go on forever.
With so many variables to consider, it is hard to narrow it down to the top 5, 10, or 20 best trails with any degree of certainty. However confusing the answer might be, we are here to offer up our picks for the best places to ride in the USA, regardless of skill level, classification of mountain bike, or any other stipulation.
The Whole Enchilada
Photo: Paris Gore
This is a list of the trails that have been deemed the best mountain bike trails in the United States, and we seriously hope that everyone can experience at least one of the trails on this list, if not all of them!
Monarch Crest Trail an IMBA Epic
Photo: OnX
Details
36.3 Miles | Rating: Difficult
85% Singletrack
Elevation: High 11,961′ Low 7,459′
Gain: 1,922′ Descent: 5,778′
4% Avg Grade (2°)
18% Max Grade (10°)
Dogs: Off-leash
E-Bikes: Allowed
The Monarch Crest is undeniably one of the finest mountain bike rides in the world. This thrilling 36-mile shuttle kicks off with breathtaking views as you navigate the majestic spine of the Rockies, skimming the treeline on a segment of the Continental Divide Trail, known as the Monarch Crest Trail.
As you descend from the divide, the Silver Creek Trail treats you to 4.5 miles of exhilarating downhill on rocky singletrack, losing thousands of vertical feet. The adventure seamlessly continues onto the Rainbow Trail, offering another ~11 miles of stunning narrow singletrack. Whether it’s your first or hundredth time on the Crest, you’re in for an unforgettable mountain biking experience!
Downieville Classic Trail
Photo: OnX
Details
14.0 Miles | Rating: Difficult
90% Singletrack
Elevation: High 7,103′ Low 2,895′
Gain: 663′ Descent: 4,846′
7% Avg Grade (4°)
42% Max Grade (23°)
Dogs: No
E-Bikes: Allowed
The Downieville Classic ride is an absolute gem. Start your adventure with a car or shuttle ride to the top, where the trail begins right away on singletrack. You’ll encounter very little climbing, though be prepared for some snow in certain spots until May.
The ride starts on Sunrise Trail, which connects to Butcher Trail, leading you to either Third Divide Trail or Second Divide Trail. Third Divide is faster and shorter, while Second Divide is longer but, in my opinion, not as thrilling as Third. From there, you’ll hit First Divide Trail, followed by a fire road and then a road ride back to Downieville. Almost the entire route is downhill, making it a fantastic ride!
Osberg Ridgeline trail map
Photo: OnX
Details
10.9 Miles | Rating: Intermediate/Difficult
100% Singletrack
Elevation: High 9,537′ Low 7,908′
Gain: 2,110′ Descent: 1,416′
6% Avg Grade (4°)
17% Max Grade (10°)
Dogs: No
E-Bikes: Allowed
To begin on this incredible alpine trail, either shuttle a vehicle or get a ride to the end of Baker Creek Road (FS162). From the trailhead, you’ll climb for a couple of miles as the path winds up Lost Shirt Gulch toward the ridge. The views only get better as you climb!
Once on the ridge, the trail features a series of rolling climbs and descents. While there are several uphill sections as you head west to east, you’ll ultimately be descending, making for plenty of enjoyable downhill sections. Some have even described it as a “never-ending descent back toward Ketchum,” though that might be slightly exaggerated.
Pro Tip: Be sure to stick to the main path, as some intersections may still need to update signage following recent fires.
Alpine trail map
Photo: OnX
Details
15.3 Miles | Rating: Intermediate/Difficult
100% Singletrack
Elevation: High 4,773′ Low 1,121′
Gain: 1,922′ Descent: 4,519′
8% Avg Grade (5°)
36% Max Grade (20°)
Dogs: Yes
E-Bikes: Allowed
The term “Alpine Trail” may be pretty overused on this list, but this trail deserves the name when you experience this epic point-to-point shuttle route just outside Oakridge, Oregon!
The journey starts in the high mountains, weaving through the looming trees iconic to Western Oregon. Get ready to rip downhill on gorgeous dark black dirt all year. Along the way, you’ll be blessed with open meadows and exposed outcroppings showing stunning panoramic views of the Cascade Mountains before diving back into the forest for more exhilarating, high-speed singletrack surrounded by ferns and wildflowers.
Related: A Comprehensive Guide to Oregon’s Best Trail
Unemployment Line Trail
Photo: OnX
Details
0.7 Miles | Rating: Intermediate/Difficult
100% Doubletrack
Elevation: High 1,475′ Low 1,151′
Gain: 0′ Descent: 324′ Down
8% Avg Grade (5°)
21% Max Grade (12°)
Dogs: Leashed
E-Bikes: Allowed
No list of must-ride trails is complete without the iconic jump line on Galbraith Mountain in Bellingham. One of Galbraith’s premier trails, Unemployment Line (or U-line), is a machine-built jump trail designed for intermediate to advanced riders. Initially, its smooth berms and rollable features attracted newer riders, but recent annual upgrades have ramped up the challenge.
Prepare for large park-style berms and over forty jumps that make for an exhilarating ride. The trail includes doubles, booters, and tables, all reflecting the dedication and passion invested in creating Unemployment Line. Like any great flow trail, it can be enjoyed by riders of varying abilities, making it both accessible and thrilling.
CDT: Targhee Pass to Red Rock Pass
Photo: OnX
Details
35.0 Miles | Rating: Intermediate
100% Singletrack
Elevation: 10,010′ High 6,827′ Low
Gain: 6,166′ Descent: 6,101′
7% Avg Grade (4°)
27% Max Grade (15°)
Dogs: No
E-Bikes: No
With stunning views and tranquil sub-alpine scenery, this singletrack trail is definitely worth a visit if you’re exploring outside the park. Although it’s primarily used by horseback riders and hikers, it’s also a fantastic route for mountain biking—just be sure to stay friendly with other trail users along the way!
The trail features short sections of doubletrack and some challenging sustained climbs on loose, sandy dirt, adding a nice element of difficulty. This is perfectly balanced by exhilarating downhill sections that offer breathtaking views of the surrounding mountain ranges.
Mountainside Loop
Photo: OnX
Details
16.0 Miles | Rating: Intermediate
90% Singletrack
Elevation: 2,046′ High 829′ Low
Gain: 2,101′ Descent: 2,123′
5% Avg Grade (3°)
22% Max Grade (12°)
Dogs: N/A
E-Bikes: N/A
This loop kicks off and concludes at Burke Mountain Campground, though you can also start at the Middle Burke parking area. It’s definitely worth considering as a camping trip!
Start by biking up the switchbacks and wooded climb of Camp-town, then take a right onto the double-track traverse of CCC Road, crossing some of the Burke slopes. Next, turn right onto J-bar, where you’ll enjoy an exhilarating, flowing downhill ride to Burke Lodge, complete with roots, jumps, bumps, and a few bridges.
From the lodge, head out to the road and take a right, then left onto Dashney Road. Follow the gravel to Trillium, where it can get a bit confusing due to unmarked Nordic trails. Continue on Trillium to Magill Fields, cross the road, and then jump onto Moose Alley—a long, fun downhill through a serene forest with great flow.
Related: The 5 Bike Parks That Should Be On Your Radar
The Whole Enchilada Trail
Photo: OnX
Details
34.1 Miles | Rating: Difficult
50% Singletrack
Elevation: 11,126′ High 3,968′ Low
Gain: 1,283′ Descent: 7,794′
5% Avg Grade (3°)
37% Max Grade (21°)
Dogs: No Dogs
E-Bikes: Not Allowed
This is another trail that is impossible to ignore on a list like this. It’s an icon in the FKT movement, but we recommend taking it slow and soaking in the epic views.
Starting at an alpine pass above the treeline and descending into the sandstone canyons of the Colorado River, the Whole Enchilada offers an incredible variety of landscapes and riding experiences. From black humus to red slickrock and transitioning from singletrack to paved bike paths, this trail showcases the full spectrum of what Moab has to offer in one breathtaking, sensory-packed adventure.
Tahoe Rim Trail: Heavenly Mountain – Big Meadow
Photo: OnX
Details
23.2 Miles | Rating: Intermediate
100% Singletrack
Elevation: 9,713′ High 7,302′ Low
Gain: 3,872′ Descent: 4,073′
6% Avg Grade (4°)
30% Max Grade (16°)
Dogs: N/A
E-Bikes: N/A
The Tahoe Rim Trail is truly spectacular no matter where you end up starting from, and this section is truly a perfect example of what this area of the world has to offer.
As you head south, the trail runs along the spine of the Carson Range, predominantly above 9,000 feet. It begins with a climb through dense forest before opening up to stunning ridges and rocky outcroppings that offer breathtaking views. About a third of the way through this section, you’ll encounter Star Lake, a beautiful spot perfect for swimming, fishing, and camping.
Hiline Trail Map
Photo: OnX
Details
3.1 Miles | Rating: Expert
90% Singletrack
Elevation: 4,646′ High 4,086′ Low
Gain: 326′ Descent: 695′
6% Avg Grade (4°)
35% Max Grade (19°)
Dogs: N/A
E-Bikes: N/A
This trail features steep, technical riding and narrow singletrack with significant exposure. There are areas where a fall could lead to serious injury or a long drop. Be honest about your abilities, and don’t hesitate to walk in more challenging sections.
Beginning at the Slim Shady Trail near the Yavapai Vista trailhead, you’ll face a steep, technical climb to the top of the mesa. As you ascend, the trail winds along the cliff’s edge, rewarding you with stunning panoramic views. The descent on the opposite side features a long stretch of slickrock and several steep, technical chutes before concluding at the Baldwin Loop on the west side of Cathedral Rock.
Happy Trails!
While this is a relatively short list in the grand scheme of things, these are some shining examples of trail advocacy, sustainability, and accessibility that provide all of us with a place to ride and experience nature. For more information on trails near you, we suggest utilizing local knowledge from bike shops or other resources, but MTBproject.com also has extensive lists of trails to get out and explore!
Have fun, stay safe, and make smart choices!
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Publish date : 2024-09-25 06:57:00
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