From the rugged Rockies to the lush Appalachians, the United States boasts an incredible diversity of mountain biking terrain. Whether you’re a seasoned rider seeking heart-pumping descents or a newcomer looking for scenic cross-country routes, the U.S. has a trail for every skill level and preference.
Join us as we explore 25 of the best mountain biking trails this country has to offer.
Moab Slickrock Trail, Utah
Often described as the holy grail of mountain biking, Moab’s Slickrock Trail offers a unique riding experience on grippy sandstone. Its incredible landscape and technical challenges make it a bucket-list destination for riders worldwide.
The Whole Enchilada, Utah
This epic 34-mile ride near Moab starts in alpine terrain and descends through multiple ecosystems. It’s not for the faint of heart, but the breathtaking views and diverse riding make it unforgettable.
McKenzie River Trail, Oregon
Winding through lush old-growth forests alongside crystal-clear waters, this 26-mile trail is a Pacific Northwest gem. Its mix of flow and technical sections, combined with stunning scenery, offers something for everyone.
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Porcupine Rim, Utah
Another Moab classic, Porcupine Rim delivers jaw-dropping views of Castle Valley and the Colorado River. This challenging trail rewards riders with thrilling descents and expansive vistas.
18 Road Trails, Colorado
Located in Fruita, these trails are known for their flowy singletrack and desert landscapes. The “Zippity Do Da” trail is a particular favorite, offering ridge rides with panoramic views.
Downieville Downhill, California
This 15-mile descent in the Sierra Nevada mountains drops over 4,000 feet through diverse terrain. It’s a true test of endurance and skill, blending high-speed sections with technical challenges.
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Kingdom Trails, Vermont
With over 100 miles of singletrack, Kingdom Trails offers a quintessential East Coast riding experience. The well-maintained trails wind through beautiful hardwood forests and rolling hills.
Monarch Crest Trail, Colorado
This high-altitude epic offers breathtaking views of the Continental Divide. Riders traverse the alpine tundra before descending through aspen groves and pine forests.
Tahoe Rim Trail, California/Nevada
Circling Lake Tahoe, this trail offers stunning lake views and diverse riding conditions. The Flume Trail section is particularly renowned for its scenic beauty and exhilarating terrain.
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Dupont State Recreational Forest, North Carolina
Known for its flowy trails and numerous waterfalls, Dupont offers a mix of smooth singletrack and slick rock riding. It’s a Southeast mountain biking mecca.
Phil’s World, Colorado
Located near Cortez, Phil’s World is known for its fast, flowy singletrack. The “Rib Cage” section, with its series of banked turns, is pure mountain biking bliss.
Doctor Park Trail, Colorado
This trail in the Gunnison National Forest offers a little bit of everything: climbs, descents, and varied terrain. The lower section’s “Jedi Forest” is particularly thrilling.
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Skyline Trail, California
Part of the Mammoth Mountain Bike Park, Skyline offers high-altitude riding with incredible Sierra Nevada views. It’s a gravity-fed trail that’s as scenic as it is exciting.
Poison Spider Mesa, Utah
Another Moab favorite, this trail combines technical challenges with stunning desert vistas. The optional Portal Trail section is for experienced riders only.
Mount Hood, Oregon
Mount Hood’s bike park offers a range of trails for all skill levels. The Pioneer Bridle Trail is a standout, offering a long descent through beautiful forest terrain.
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Syllamo Trails, Arkansas
This IMBA Epic trail system in the Ozarks offers rocky, technical riding through beautiful hardwood forests. It’s a hidden gem in the mountain biking world.
Colorado Trail, Colorado
While typically a long-distance hiking trail, sections of the Colorado Trail offer world-class mountain biking. The segments near Durango are particularly popular.
Whistler Mountain Bike Park, British Columbia
Okay, we’re cheating a bit here – this one’s in Canada. But it’s too good to leave off the list. Whistler is the holy grail of bike parks, offering an unparalleled variety of trails and features.
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Santos Trail System, Florida
Proving that you don’t need mountains for great mountain biking, Santos offers surprisingly varied terrain for Florida. The Vortex area is known for its technical features.
Raccoon Mountain, Tennessee
Located near Chattanooga, Raccoon Mountain offers a mix of fast-flow trails and technical sections. The views of the Tennessee River Gorge are spectacular.
Bend, Oregon Trail System
Bend is a mountain biking paradise with hundreds of miles of singletrack. Phil’s Trail complex is a local favorite, offering a mix of flow and technical riding.
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South Boundary Trail, New Mexico
This IMBA Epic trail offers a 22-mile point-to-point ride through the Carson National Forest. Expect high-altitude climbing, aspen groves, and thrilling descents.
Tsali Recreation Area, North Carolina
With four main loops totaling about 40 miles, Tsali offers fast, flowy singletrack along the shores of Fontana Lake. It’s a must-ride destination in the Southeast.
Sun Valley, Idaho
Sun Valley offers a vast network of trails for all skill levels. The Osberg Ridgeline Trail is a standout, offering high-alpine riding with breathtaking views.
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Sedona, Arizona
Sedona’s red rock landscape provides a unique backdrop for mountain biking. Trails like Hiline and Hangover offer technical challenges and incredible views.
Your Next Two-Wheeled Adventure Awaits
So, which trail will you tackle first? Will you test your technical skills on Moab’s iconic slick rock, cruise through the lush forests of Oregon, or take on the high-altitude challenges of Colorado?
Wherever you choose, you’re sure to create unforgettable memories and experience the incredible natural beauty of the United States from two wheels. Happy trails, and may your tires always find traction!
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