You love the rush of adrenaline that comes with gliding down a steep mountain trail on two wheels. The wind in your hair, the thrill of conquering challenging terrain, and the stunning views all make mountain biking an exhilarating experience. Prepare to embark on a journey through the very best mountain biking trails the world has to offer. From the rugged peaks of the Rocky Mountains to the lush forests of New Zealand, these trails will ignite your passion for off-road cycling and leave you craving for more. Get ready to explore the untamed beauty of nature as you navigate through thrilling twists, turns, and jumps on the best mountain biking trails out there.
1. Top Mountain Biking Trails in the United States
1.1. Moab, Utah
Moab, Utah is a mecca for mountain biking enthusiasts. With its breathtaking red rock landscapes and challenging trails, it offers an unforgettable experience for riders of all skill levels. The world-renowned Slickrock Trail is a must-ride, featuring a unique surface of petrified sand dunes that provide incredible traction. For those seeking a more technical adventure, the Porcupine Rim Trail offers steep descents and jaw-dropping vistas. Moab truly offers something for everyone, making it a top destination for mountain biking in the United States.
1.2. Bend, Oregon
Bend, Oregon has gained a reputation as a premier mountain biking destination, thanks to its diverse trail system and stunning natural beauty. The Phil’s Trail Complex is a favorite among locals and visitors alike, with its well-maintained singletrack and rolling terrain. The North Fork Swede Ridge Loop provides a more challenging experience, with technical features and steep climbs. Bend’s mountain biking trails cater to riders of all abilities, making it an ideal location for a mountain biking adventure.
1.3. Crested Butte, Colorado
Crested Butte, Colorado is often referred to as the birthplace of mountain biking, and for good reason. With over 750 miles of trails, the area offers endless opportunities for riders to explore. The 401 Trail is a legendary route that takes riders through picturesque meadows and aspen groves, with stunning views of surrounding peaks. For a true test of skill, the Teocalli Ridge Trail offers steep descents and technical sections. Crested Butte is a mountain biking paradise that should be on every rider’s bucket list.
1.4. Sedona, Arizona
Sedona, Arizona is known for its awe-inspiring red rock formations, and it also happens to be a fantastic mountain biking destination. The trails in Sedona offer a combination of technical challenges and scenic beauty. The Hangover Trail is a popular choice, featuring narrow ledges and steep drops that will get your adrenaline pumping. For a more mellow ride, the Bell Rock Pathway offers a smoother, scenic experience. Sedona’s unique landscape and diverse trail system make it a must-visit for mountain bikers.
1.5. Park City, Utah
Park City, Utah is not only a world-class ski destination, but it also boasts incredible mountain biking trails. The Park City Mountain Bike Trail System offers over 400 miles of trails, catering to riders of all levels. The Mid Mountain Trail is a favorite among locals, with its stunning alpine scenery and flowing singletrack. For a more technical challenge, the Wasatch Crest Trail provides steep climbs and rocky descents. Park City’s extensive trail network and beautiful mountain scenery make it a top choice for mountain bikers.
1.6. Lake Tahoe, California/Nevada
Lake Tahoe, situated on the border of California and Nevada, offers a breathtaking setting for mountain biking. The Flume Trail is a must-ride, offering stunning views of the crystal-clear lake and surrounding mountains. The Tahoe Rim Trail is another popular choice, with its diverse terrain and challenging climbs. Lake Tahoe’s combination of scenic beauty and challenging trails make it a destination that should not be missed by mountain biking enthusiasts.
1.7. Brevard, North Carolina
Brevard, North Carolina may not be as well-known as some other mountain biking destinations, but it certainly holds its own when it comes to great trails. The Pisgah National Forest offers a network of trails that cater to riders of all abilities. The famous Black Mountain Loop is a favorite among locals, with its technical climbs and fast descents. For a more flowy experience, the Ridgeline Trail provides miles of berms and rollers. Brevard’s underrated mountain biking scene makes it a hidden gem for riders.
1.8. Durango, Colorado
Durango, Colorado is a mountain biking paradise nestled in the stunning San Juan Mountains. The Telegraph Trail System offers a variety of trails that are accessible from downtown, making it a convenient choice for riders. The Hermosa Creek Trail is a standout route, with its breathtaking alpine scenery and challenging climbs. For those seeking a more adrenaline-fueled experience, the Colorado Trail provides steep descents and technical features. Durango’s combination of accessible trails and beautiful mountain vistas make it a top destination for mountain biking in the United States.
1.9. Oakridge, Oregon
Oakridge, Oregon is a hidden gem for mountain bikers seeking endless singletrack trails. The Alpine Trail is a legendary ride, offering over 30 miles of flowy descents and breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. The Larison Rock Trail is another popular choice, with its challenging climbs and technical features. Oakridge’s remote and rugged landscape make it a destination for adventurous riders looking for a true backcountry experience.
1.10. Downieville, California
Downieville, California is home to the famous Downieville Downhill, a 15-mile descent that has gained cult status among mountain biking enthusiasts. The trail offers a combination of technical sections, fast descents, and stunning Sierra Nevada scenery. Downieville also boasts a network of cross-country trails, making it a versatile destination for all types of riders. Whether you’re a gravity junkie or a cross-country enthusiast, Downieville has something to offer.
2. Must-Visit Mountain Biking Trails in Europe
2.1. Finale Ligure, Italy
Finale Ligure, located on the Italian Riviera, is a paradise for mountain bikers. The area features a vast network of trails that cater to riders of all levels. The Rollercoaster Trail is a favorite, with its fast descents and sweeping berms. For more technical challenges, the Caprazoppa Trail provides rocky features and tight switchbacks. Finale Ligure’s stunning coastal scenery and diverse trail system make it a must-visit destination for mountain bikers in Europe.
2.2. Morzine, France
Morzine, located in the French Alps, is a popular destination for mountain biking enthusiasts. The area is known for its extensive lift-accessed trail network, providing riders with endless downhill thrills. The Pleney Bike Park offers a variety of trails for all skill levels, from gentle flow trails to technical downhill tracks. Morzine’s stunning alpine setting and world-class bike park make it a top choice for downhill riders.
2.3. Zermatt, Switzerland
Zermatt, Switzerland is famous for its iconic Matterhorn mountain and world-class skiing, but it also offers fantastic mountain biking opportunities. The Zermatt Bike Park features a network of trails with various levels of difficulty, allowing riders to choose their preferred challenge. From flowy singletrack to technical downhill tracks, Zermatt has it all. The backdrop of the majestic Swiss Alps adds to the overall experience and makes Zermatt a must-visit destination for mountain biking in Europe.
2.4. Coed y Brenin, Wales
Coed y Brenin, located in Wales, is the oldest mountain bike trail center in the United Kingdom. The area offers a wide variety of trails that cater to all levels of riders. The Beast of Brenin is a popular trail, featuring challenging climbs and technical descents. For a more gentle ride, the Dragon’s Back Trail provides flowy singletrack and stunning mountain vistas. Coed y Brenin’s rich mountain biking heritage and beautiful natural surroundings make it a must-visit destination for riders in Europe.
2.5. Livigno, Italy
Livigno, situated in the Italian Alps, is a mountain biking paradise. The area boasts a vast network of trails that cater to riders of all abilities. The Carosello 3000 Bike Park offers a variety of downhill trails, ranging from easy green runs to expert-level black runs. For cross-country enthusiasts, Livigno offers endless kilometers of well-marked trails with stunning alpine scenery. Livigno’s combination of challenging trails and breathtaking landscapes make it a top destination for mountain bikers in Europe.
2.6. Bike Park Wales, Wales
Bike Park Wales, located in the heart of the Welsh countryside, is a purpose-built mountain biking facility that offers trails for all levels of riders. The park boasts a variety of downhill trails with features such as jumps, berms, and rock gardens. For riders seeking a more technical challenge, the black runs provide steep descents and technical sections. Bike Park Wales’s well-maintained trails and beautiful natural setting make it a must-visit destination for mountain biking in Europe.
2.7. Verbier, Switzerland
Verbier, situated in the Swiss Alps, is not only a popular ski resort but also a great destination for mountain biking. The Verbier Bike Park offers a range of downhill trails for riders of all skill levels. From mellow blue runs to adrenaline-pumping black runs, Verbier has something for everyone. The stunning mountain scenery and well-developed trail network make Verbier a top choice for mountain biking in Europe.
2.8. Les Gets, France
Les Gets, located in the Portes du Soleil region of the French Alps, is a popular mountain biking destination. The area offers over 600 kilometers of interconnected trails, making it one of the largest mountain bike areas in Europe. The Les Gets Bike Park features a variety of downhill trails, from flowing singletrack to technical descents. Les Gets’ picturesque alpine setting and extensive trail network make it a must-visit for mountain biking enthusiasts.
2.9. Val di Fassa, Italy
Val di Fassa, nestled in the Dolomite Mountains of northern Italy, offers a variety of mountain biking trails in a stunning alpine setting. The area provides a network of trails that cater to riders of all levels, from gentle valley rides to challenging singletrack. The panorama from the trails is breathtaking, with towering peaks and lush valleys. Val di Fassa’s combination of natural beauty and diverse trail system make it an ideal destination for mountain biking in Europe.
2.10. Tignes/Val d’Isère, France
Tignes and Val d’Isère, part of the Espace Killy ski area in the French Alps, also offer great mountain biking opportunities. The area boasts a network of trails that range from gentle forest paths to technical downhill tracks. The Val d’Isère Bike Park features a variety of trails for riders of all skill levels, with stunning mountain views as a backdrop. Tignes and Val d’Isère’s mix of alpine beauty and well-developed trails make them must-visit destinations for mountain biking in Europe.
