27 Best Mountain Biking Trails and Destinations in the USA
Mountain biking is not just a hobby. It is a way of life, especially for those people who love adventures.
I personally have spent a lot of time figuring out the best trail in the US where I can go and enjoy the ride.
After doing a lot of research, I have found 27 of the best trails in the USA.
These trails are perfect for everyone, no matter whether you are interested in downhill, Cross-country, Dirt jumping, Slopestyle, or any other trail types.
Even if you are a beginner or intermediate, you can still visit these trails and enjoy them.
27 Best Mountain Biking Trails in the USA: A Guide to Epic Rides
Here are 27 of the best trail in the USA, which will provide you with the best mountain biking experience across the United States.
The Whole Enchilada – Moab, Utah
You might have seen many mountain bikers talking about bucket list trails. Well, on that list, riders keep The Whole Enchilada at the top. And it is for a reason.
The whole enchilada is a 26.5-mile epic trail at La Salle Mountain. Over 11,000 feet.
At this height, you can feel the altitude. Therefore, when you are leaving home, make sure you are properly hydrated.
It is so giant that on this single trail, you will go through pine forests, exposed slickrock, fast-flowing dirt, and red rock canyons.
Trail type: Point-to-point
Best for: Advanced riders with a thirst for technical descents
My tip: 11,000 feet from the ground level is too much, plus it is 26.5 miles long. Therefore, it is good to eat some extra snacks as you’ll burn too many calories.
Plus, you should start early in the day and enjoy downhill trails in the USA.
Bentonville Trails – Bentonville, Arkansas
Many people underestimate Bentonville. However, I have talked to many mountain bikers who have been there, and they have found it interesting.
Arkansas’s city, Bentonville, has invested millions of dollars to create an extensive network of different types of trails for all types of riders, including beginner, intermediate, and advanced.
It would not be wrong to say that it is a paradise for mountain biking. One of my favorite trail is the… Slaughter Pen Trails.
There, you can find everything like technical rock gardens, flowy sections, and sculpted berms.
Trail type: Network (pick your adventure)
Best for: Riders of all skill levels
Standout trail: I like many, such as slaughter pen trails, but you should also consider the “Masterpiece” trail—it has got wooden features that are straight-up art.
Downieville Downhill – Downieville, California
If you enjoy curving speed, technical descends, and epic views, then Downieville is one of the best downhill mountain biking trails in the USA. It’s 15 miles long and descends over 5000 vertical feet.
It starts with some steep switchbacks through the Sierra Nevada Forest and goes wild with Rock Garden, fast-flowing sections, and creek crossings.
Trail type: Point-to-point
Best for: Advanced riders who live for adrenaline
My tip: Book a shuttle in advance—unless you’re up for a brutal climb to the top.
Kingdom Trails – East Burke, Vermont
If you like flow trails, Kingdom trals is going to feel like heaven. These trails are smooth winding paths through beautiful forests.
However, they are not super technical; they are pretty simple and suitable for beginners and intermediate riders.
I suggest you visit Sidewinder Trail; it’s a roller coaster trail on dirt with huge berms and rhythm, which you will find really interesting.
Trail type: Network
Best for: Intermediate riders looking for smooth and fun trails
Don’t miss: Stop by Darling Hill for the views—it’s a perfect spot for a break.
Pisgah National Forest – Brevard, North Carolina
You can also visit Pisgah National Forest. You can find raw, rugged, and wild trails there, perfect for riders who love challenges, especially technical ones.
However, it is not suitable for beginners, but it is good for intermediate levels who want to become a pro rider for those who are already pro.
So, if you decide to visit Pisgah National Park, I suggest you visit the Black Mountain trail. It will start with a tough climb and a decent mix of fast, rocky sections and tight technical turns.
That’s why I said it’s good for advanced mountain bike riders.
Trail type: Loop options
Best for: Advanced riders who love a challenge
Pro tip: Check the weather before leaving your home because Pisgah can get muddy too quickly. And the ground will get slippery, which isn’t good.
Crested Butte – Crested Butte, Colorado
If you want to experience a beautiful view, then I suggest you visit Crested Butte in Colorado.
The 401 trail makes it really beautiful. It starts with a tough climb. But later, it pays off with some smooth, flowing descent through beautiful flowers and mountains.
Trail type: Loop
Best for: Intermediate to advanced riders
Watch out for: The altitude is around 9,000 feet from the ground level, so it’s not a Joke, especially if you’re a beginner.
Park City – Park City, Utah
If you want to earn the IMBA Gold-Level Ride Center status, you should visit Park City, Utah.
There are different types of trails for every mountain biker; for example, if you like flow trails, then you can visit Armstrong or Mid Mountain.
These trails are well-maintained, smooth, fun, and full of swooping turns.
You will feel as if you’re flying on a mountain bike.
Trail type: Network
Best for: Beginners to advanced riders
Don’t miss: Hit up a post-ride burger in town—there are plenty of killer spots.
If you are someone who likes downhill trail but doesn’t like climbing and working hard, then Trestle Bike Park is a perfect place for you.
They have a lift service available, so there is no climbing; you will enjoy only downhill bike riding.
Trail type: Lift-serviced downhill park
Best for: Downhill and freeride enthusiasts
My advice: Before moving to big trail, I suggest you start on easier trail like Green World. And I would say it is just a warm-up.
Copper Harbor Trails – Copper Harbor, Michigan
If you are living in Michigan, Copper Harbor Trail is for you. This trail is a mix of flowy singletrack and rocky technical sections. Besides this, they also have beautiful views, such as Lake Superior.
Copper Harbor Trail has many downhill trails with crazy drops and berms. Till you reach the bottom, you will experience many ups and downs, kind of a roller coaster ride.
Trail type: Network
Best for: Intermediate to advanced riders
Don’t skip: You should stop at Keweenaw Mountain Lodge—they’ve got great food and beer for post-ride refueling.
Sedona Trails – Sedona, Arizona
If you want to experience life as if you are riding a bike on Mars, then you should visit Sedona Trails in Sedona, Arizona.
It looks like Mars Planning because there you will find a rock landscape in red, which is really unreal.
Besides these, these trails are technical trails, but they are unique and worth visiting.
It’s a trail network, so I suggest you ride on the Hangover trail. It’s narrowly exposed. The view is also beautiful, which may leave you speechless.
Trail type: Network
Best for: Advanced riders who love technical challenges
Pro tip: You should take some extra water bottles there because the temperature is a little high.
Kona’s Kohala Coast Trails – Hawaii
When we talk about mountain biking in Hawaii, most people imagine tropical jungles, sandy trails, and the ocean, which is true, but it is not limited to here.
You will also find rocky sections, steep drops, and some tight corners that will test your skill level.
Kona’s Kohala Coast Trails is a network where you will find different types of trails, and one of the best traila you want to experience is Kohala Downhill.
It starts with long winding climbs and goes through a thrilling descent with rocky sections.
Trail type: Network
Best for: Intermediate to advanced riders
Tip: Be prepared for the heat. You’ll need to hydrate like crazy, and sunscreen is a must.
Northstar Bike Park – Truckee, California
NorthStar Bike Park is kind of heaven for those who don’t like climbing but love downhill biking.
It’s a network, and there you will find different types of trails good for beginners and advanced riders.
I suggest you visit the Sierra Canyon Trail, which goes through a forest with a mix of technical terrain and the fast-flowing section.
Trail type: Lift-served downhill and cross-country network
Best for: Downhill riders, but there’s something for everyone.
My tip: If you’re new to downhill, start with the beginner’s Trail to warm up your legs and skills. (Here’s how you can warm-up correctly for for biking)
Devil’s Backbone is a little scary trail for beginners.
So that’s why if you are an intermediate or advanced mountain bike rider who loves challenges and wants to try your skills, then I suggest you visit it in Loveland, Colorado.
The Devil’s Backbone is a 12-mile loop that goes through the red rock formation, steep climbs, and slow descent.
You will love the winding descent, where you will get a beautiful view of the foothills and open plains below.
It’s a rocky terrain, and there are few technical sections. Therefore, it’s also going to be a test of your skills.
Trail type: Loop
Best for: Intermediate riders looking for a fun challenge
My advice: It has a beautiful view, which you should enjoy, but it is also rocky. That’s why you have to focus on the path you are going through while enjoying the view to avoid any injury.
Forest of Nisene Marks – Santa Cruz, California
If we talk about mountain biking trails in California, many people think only about sunny coastlines or desert mountain ridges, but what about Santa Cruz?
Well, there, you will get completely different vibes. And it won’t be wrong to say that the forest of Nissan Marks is a hidden gem in the Redwood Forest, California.
There, you will find mostly cross-country trails where you can ride your bike through massive trees with soft pine needles underfoot.
The best trail you should visit is the Zayante Trail. It’s flowy and challenging, and it has everything like roller-tight turns and technical rock gardens.
Trail type: Cross-country
Best for: Intermediate riders who love flowy, technical trails
Pro tip: If you’re new to the redwoods, don’t expect everything to be smooth. This trail can get slippery after rain, and the rocks can be tricky.
Mount Lowe Railway – Pasadena, California
For those who want an epic descent with a bit of history, Mount Lowe Railway is a must.
This is one of the most unique rides you can do in the U.S., as it follows the path of an old funicular railway built in the early 1900s.
The trail starts with a challenging climb through a variety of switchbacks, but the reward is worth it.
The Echo Mountain Trail takes you on a thrilling descent through rocky terrain, over old wooden bridges, and across gorgeous mountain views of the Los Angeles Basin.
Trail type: Out-and-back
Best for: Advanced riders who want to combine history with their riding experience
My advice: Start early. The trail is popular, and if you want to avoid crowds, the early morning ride is your best bet.
Big Bear Mountain Resort – Big Bear Lake, California
Big Bear Mountain Resort is an excellent choice for those who are interested in downhill mountain bike riding.
This resort offers a massive lift-served downhill network, which is good for all skill levels, including beginner, intermediate, and advanced.
Besides this, if you are not into downhill, then don’t worry. You can check the Skyline Trail, which is one of the epic rides that mixes steep descent with scenic overlooks.
Trail type: Lift-served downhill and cross-country network
Best for: Downhill riders and intermediate cross-country enthusiasts
Pro tip: If you are not a beginner, or even if you are a beginner but want to experience some more technical challenges, then you can also check out Pine Knot. It’s a steep, rocky section, which is a fun test of your skills.
Mammoth Mountain – Mammoth Lakes, California
During the summer season, Mammoth Mountain becomes Mecca for mountain bikers, making it one of the best bike parks in the country (United States)
The Downhill Trail at Mammoth is famous for its long descent and challenging rocky features, which makes it a good option for those who want to check their skill level.
One of the best downhills at Mammoth Mountain you should check is Kamikaze Downhill.
Actually, it’s an underlined rush from top to bottom. You will go through loose rocks, steep drops, and with fast flow. So you will ride fast and hard.
Trail type: Lift-served downhill park
Best for: Advanced downhill riders who love long, intense runs
My advice: Mammoth’s long descents can be exhausting, so keep taking breaks.
Galbraith Mountain – Bellingham, Washington
One of the largest trail networks in the USA is Galbraith Mountain in Bellingham, Washington. There, you can ride for hours without even hitting the same trail twice.
It is well-built and has a good mix of fast flow and technical challenges. Plus, if you love drops and jumps, you should check out Larrabee Trail, as it’s a must-ride, in my opinion.
However, Galbraith is not just about downhill. You can also visit the Eastside Trail, which offer mellow, flowy sections and challenging rock-laden terrain. So, it’s good for every rider to have different choices.
Trail type: Network
Best for: Intermediate to advanced riders
My advice: You can download the Trailforks app—it’ll help you find this sprawling network so you don’t miss any of the good stuff.
Silver Star Mountain Resort – Vernon, British Columbia
Silver Star Mountain Resort is not in the United States. Instead, it’s in Canada. But if you are living in Canada or an American who is planning to visit Canada, then you can visit Silver Star Mountain Resort. They offer a lift service, which is good for those who love downhill bike riding.
This resort has over 50 miles of trails for all levels. But in my opinion, you should visit the Rock Star trail. You can also visit others, but it’s one of my favorites.
The Rock Star trail is fast and has flowy rides with big beams, rollers, and some fun jumps, which makes you feel as if you are a pro, even if you are still working on your airtime.
Trail type: Lift-served downhill park
Best for: Advanced mountain bike riders and Downhill lovers
Pro tip: You can carry clothes in a bag Because the weather can be unpredictable; I mean, it sometimes gets chilly even in the summer season.
Snow Summit – Big Bear Lake, California
Most mountain bike riders don’t talk about Copper Harbour Trails, but in my opinion, it’s a hidden gem in the Midwest, and I believe it’s a must-visit trail.
The Copper Harbor Trails is located at the northern tip of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula.
This trail system combines a flowy single track, challenging technical features, and beautiful views of Lake Superior.
Besides this, the Copper Harbour Trails is a network, so there are many trails.One of the best trails that I suggest to you is The Flow, which lives up to its name.
It has sculpted brims, jumps, and rollers. If you ride on this trail, you will feel like you are on a roller coaster ride.
Trail type: Network
Best for: Riders of all skill levels (Especially Intermediate), but advanced riders will love the technical challenges.
Tip: You can plan for a full day to explore it (like on Sunday). In my opinion, you shouldn’t miss it, plus you can go there with your friends.
Copper Harbor Trails – Copper Harbor, Michigan
Most mountain bike riders don’t talk about Copper Harbour Trails, but in my opinion, it’s a hidden gem in the Midwest, and I believe it’s a must-visit trail.
The Copper Harbor trails is located at the northern tip of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula.
This trails system combines a flowy single track, challenging technical features, and beautiful views of Lake Superior.
Besides this, the Copper Harbour Trail is a network, so there are many trails. One of the best traila that I suggest to you is The Flow, which lives up to its name.
It has sculpted brims, jumps, and rollers. If you ride on this trail, you will feel like you are on a roller coaster ride.
Trail type: Network
Best for: Riders of all skill levels (Especially Intermediate), but advanced riders will love the technical challenges.
Tip: You can plan for a full day to explore it (like on Sunday). In my opinion, you shouldn’t miss it, plus you can go there with your friends.
Dupont State Recreational Forest – Brevard, North Carolina
This is the second time I’m calling a trail Macca. So… Dupont State Forest is a Macca for mountain bikers living in the southeast.
It’s famous because it’s beginner-friendly trails and is alsogood for intermediates and advanced riders. One of the trails that you will find interesting is the Ridgeline Trails. It’s fast, slow downhill trails with berms.
Besides this, the scenery is beautiful too. You’ll pass through lush forests and even see waterfalls if you venture into nearby trails like Triple Falls.
Trail type: Network
Best for: Intermediate riders who enjoy flow and a touch of technical riding
Advice: This trail gets crowded on weekends, so you can plan to visit it any other day if you want some extra peace.
Rogue Valley Mountain Biking Trails – Ashland, Oregon
The Rogue Valley in southern Oregon offers some of the best enduro-style riding in the USA.
Rogue Valley Mountain Biking Trails is a network where you will find different types of trails like Lithia Park Descent trail, a long, epic ride that combines technical switchbacks, fast-flowing singletrack, and gorgeous scenery.
One more thing that makes Ashland so special is its variety. You can hit steep, rocky descents in one minute, then cruise through smooth, flowy sections the next.
It’s like getting a sample of every type of terrain in one ride.
Trail type: Network
Best for: Intermediate to advanced riders who love enduro-style riding
Pro tip: Pack snacks. The climbs can be long, and you’ll need the energy for the epic descents.
South Boundary Trail – Taos, New Mexico
If you’re looking for a backcountry adventure, the South Boundary Trail is one of the best point-to-point rides in the US.
This is a 22-mile trail that will take you through alpine forests, open meadows, and rugged terrain; along with it, you will enjoy stunning views of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains.
Besides this, you’ll also like the long, thrilling descent at the end, which will drop you nearly 3,000 feet into the Taos Valley.
So, if you plan to visit this trail in the US, be prepared for some technical sections and steep switchbacks.
Trail type: Point-to-point
Best for: Experienced riders who love a good mix of climbing and descending
Tip: Arrange a shuttle if you don’t want to ride back uphill—it’s a tough climb!
Kingdom Trails – East Burke, Vermont
The Kingdom Trails is another famous trail network in Vermont that offers some of the best riding on the East Coast.
This trail network is expansive, but it’s known for its smooth, flowy singletrack and scenic views of the Green Mountains.
A must-ride trail here is Sidewinder, which features tight, steep berms that make you feel like you’re surfing on dirt.
If you enjoy more technical challenges, thenyou should check out Kitchel, a trail filled with rollers, drops, and technical rock gardens.
Trail type: Network
Best for: Riders of all skill levels
Advice: You can visit this on weekends, and since there is a large network of trails in Vermont, USA, there is too much to explore.
Slaughter Pen Trail System – Bentonville, Arkansas
The Slaughter Pen Trail System is gaining popularity, and there is a big reason why it’s happening. Actually, there is something for every bike rider.
For example, for beginner mountain bike riders, there are flowy trails. And for advanced bike riders, there are technical descents, which is why people love visiting it.
If you are a beginner, you can visit the All-American Trail. It is flowy with some wooden features, berms, and jumps.
Even if you are a pro rider, you can still ride here first to warm up yourself before moving to advanced or challenging trails like Medieval Loop, which features rocky terrain and steep climbs.
Medieval Loop is specially designed for intermediate and advanced riders.
Trail type: Network
Best for: Beginner to intermediate riders, but advanced riders will still find it interesting.
Pro tip: Combine this ride with a visit to the nearby Coler Mountain Bike Preserve for an epic weekend of riding.
Phil’s World – Cortez, Colorado
Last but not least, Phil’s World is another trail network located in Colorado’s high mountains, USA. It is gaining popularity because of its flowy singletrack and unique terrain.
If you ever visit Phil’s World Trail network, I suggest you check out the Rib Cage Trail.Actually, this trails is kind of a rollercoaster ride, too; you’ll experience rollers and berms, which you’ll surely find interesting.
Phil’s World trails are suitable for intermediate-level bike riders, but there are a few technical sections, too, so they are also good for advanced riders.
Trail type: Network
Best for: Riders of all skill levels who want a playful, fast-paced ride
Advice: Make sure to check weather conditions. The desert terrain can get muddy after rain, which isn’t good for bike riding.
Quick Tips for Planning Your Mountain Biking Trail Adventures
These were the 27 best trails and destinations in the USA. So, before you hit up these EPIC trails, I want you to remember some important things.
Here are some quick preparation tips to help you make the most of your rides.
Check Trail Conditions
Don’t directly rush onto any trail or destination in the USA because many trails get affected by weather conditions, and that’s why you may find them closed. You can download apps like TrailsForks or MTB Project.
These apps will give you trail conditions updates, maps, user reviews, and much more.
Pack the Essentials
If you are covering a short distance, then it’s okay not to carry water bottles. Otherwise, hydration is very important. So, if you are visiting a Whole Enchilada South Boundary Trail or any long trail in California, I suggest you take some water bottles.
Plus, carry some snacks for energy; you can carry energy bars, even sandwiches for long distances.
Besides this, you should also carry tools, including an extra tube, mini pump, or CO2 inflator.
Moreover, you can also carry some extra layers because, in the mountains, you may feel cold because the weather changes too quickly.
Timing is Everything
Choosing the right time to visit a trail is also important; for example, you should visit a desert trail like Porcupine Rim or Slickrock during the spring or fall season instead of summer to avoid the scorching heat.
On the other hand, you should visit mountain trails during late summer when the snow has melted, such as Colorado’s trails. Plus, If the trail is big or famous, like Downieville Downhill, then visit it in the morning to avoid crowds and get back home.
Use Local Knowledge
When you visit any trail, you can also talk to a bike shop or local people or staff to learn about the trail because local people know better than any app like Trailforks or MTB project.
They might tell you about hidden gems, the must-ridden section, etc. Besides this, it also supports the local biking community.
Consider Shuttles and Rentals
If you want to ride point-to-point like Downieville Downhill or The Whole Enchilada, then it’s good to arrange a shuttle to save yourself from hustling.
Also, many mountain bike destinations in the USA also provide high-quality rental options if hauling your bike across the country feels like too much.
Safety First
Safety is very important for a mountain biker. That’s why you shouldn’t forget to wear a helmet. Knee pads and elbow guards.
It might feel like overkill, but you’ll be thankful for them on rocky descents or if you mistakenly fall.
Respect the Trails
Please don’t leave any traces and pack all the trash. Plus, stay on marked trails and avoid riding on muddy tracks to protect the terrain.
Final Thoughts
The USA has many types of mountain biking trails and destinations; each has its own unique quality and views.
However, now, whether you’re a downhill lover, a cross-country enthusiast, or just someone who loves to explore new places on mountain bikes, these 27 trails and destinations in the US offer something for everyone.
Now, take your bike, hit the road, and start visiting these trails. And don’t forget to share your own stories or experiences about these epic rides—I’d love to hear them, plus other people will also get inspiration from you.
What is the hardest MTB trail in the US?
One of the hardest trails is the Portal Trail in Moab, Utah. It’s famous because of its dangerous cliffside sections, steep technical descents, and rocky terrain.
This trail is not for beginners or light-hearted riders. Even though I don’t consider it suitable for intermediate riders, you need to be experienced and have advanced skills. One wrong step can cause serious consciousness.
What are the best downhill trails in the US?
Some of the top downhill trails include:
Whistler Bike Park (just across the border in Canada, but excellent for US riders.
Northstar Bike Park in California offers a mix of fast descents and advanced terrain.
The Kamikaze at Mammoth Mountain in California. It’s famous for its loose, rocky sections.
Besides these three, other great options are Snow Summit in California and the legendary Downieville Downhill in California’s Sierra Nevada.
How do I prepare for a multi-day MTB trip?
Preparation is key to enjoying a multi-day biking adventure. Here’s a checklist:
Physical Training: Start riding longer distances a few weeks in advance to build endurance.
Bike Maintenance: Check your brakes, suspension, chain, and tires before you leave. Bring a repair kit with essentials like tubes, a multi-tool, and a mini-pump.
Packing: Include layers for unpredictable weather, a hydration pack, energy-dense snacks, a first-aid kit, and maps or GPS tools.
Logistics: Research shuttle services for point-to-point trails (like South Boundary Trail) and book accommodations early if you’re riding during peak seasons.
What is the best mountain bike trail for beginners in the US?
For beginners, Green Loop at Kingdom Trails in Vermont is a perfect option. It offers gentle climbs, smooth singletrack, and an enjoyable ride without technical challenges.
Besides this, other beginner-friendly trails are All-American at Slaughter Pen in Bentonville, Arkansas, and Easier Said Than Done at Snowmass Bike Park in Colorado.
