The Top Mountain Biking Destinations in America
Mountain biking gives riders a chance to escape the urban grind and challenge themselves in the great outdoors. While there are thousands of awesome trails to explore across the country, there are only a few destinations that are known as true mountain biking towns. The best mountain bike towns in America boast easy trail access, stunning scenery and plenty to see on and off the bike. From Lake Tahoe, California, to Bend, Oregon and Asheville, North Carolina, we’re breaking down the best mountain biking destinations in the U.S., and where to camp nearby.
These are the best mountain biking destinations in America.
Moab, Utah
Moab is the current epicenter of mountain biking culture in the U.S. This truly unique red rock destination is located in southeastern Utah. It’s also easily accessible from Arizona, Colorado and New Mexico for anyone trying to hit multiple hot spots in one road trip.
On the bike: There are plenty of historic mountain biking trails in Moab, like the popular Whole Enchilada. But what makes Moab unique is, the trail offering is always changing and expanding. Moab makes an effort to grow its mountain bike scene; on average, 30 miles of new trails are created each year. Klonzo and North Klondike are two recently added intermediate trails. Whether you choose to explore an old classic or a fresh trail, your biking adventure will be filled with incredible desert views and slick-rock riding that you won’t find anywhere else.
Off the bike: When you’re in Moab, take advantage of your proximity to Arches National Park, Canyonlands and the Colorado River—must-see attractions for outdoors enthusiasts. And of course, Moab offers a solid selection of bike shops, restaurants and breweries.
Where to camp: Sandflat Recreation Area and Moab Valley RV Resort.
Crested Butte, Colorado
This Rocky Mountain town is a go-to spot for skiers and mountain bikers alike. Located midway between Denver and Grand Junction, Crested Butte is even closer to Colorado Springs, and you’ll enjoy a relaxing and scenic road trip from any of those three major cities.
On the bike: With over 700 miles of alpine singletrack trails, Crested Butte is one of the destinations that started the mountain biking craze back in the 1970s. It’s also home to one of the oldest mountain bike festivals and features a legendary 13,000 foot climb that less experienced cyclists are wise not to attempt. But worry not—there are plenty of well-groomed, scenic and beginner-friendly trails, too!
Off the bike: You'll be pleased to find many hip restaurants and breweries around Crested Butte. For a different culture twist, check out the wooden shops that line Elk Avenue.
Where to camp: If you pass on the area’s boutique hotels, Lake Irwin is your best option.
Lake Tahoe, California/Nevada
Home to one of the clearest lakes in the world, Lake Tahoe lies in the Sierra Nevada Mountains on the border of Nevada and California. If you're flying in, Reno or Sacramento are your best bets.
On the bike: The Tahoe Rim Trail is a true bucket list mountain biking adventure, but also put Flume Trail and Mr. Toad’s Wild Ride on your must-try list. If you’re into downhill, head to the Northstar Resort, and for the newest trails, stick to the South Lake area. Keep in mind, the higher you go, the more magical your views of the glistening lake down below will be.
Off the bike: Bike shops, restaurants, bars and casino hotel nightlife help make Tahoe such a unique blend of city comfort and outdoor adventure. Harbor Beach is a nice spot to relax. For more excitement, head to Heavenly where you can find a zipline, gondola and mountain roller coaster.
Where to camp: Lake Tahoe KOA and Fallen Leaf Campground.
Also Read: 11 New Outdoor Activities to Try This Summer
Asheville, North Carolina
Western North Carolina’s Blue Ridge Mountains are home to Asheville, a city known for its mountain beauty, vibrant art scene and historic architecture.
On the bike: Whether you choose to explore Bailey Mountain Bike Park or the 500,000-acre Pisgah National Forest, you'll find that Asheville is surrounded by awesome trails for mountain bikers of all skill levels. And that’s just the beginning. Dupont, Tsali and Kisuma are close to Asheville and offer more of North Carolina’s most treasured mountain biking trails.
Off the bike: The 19th century Biltmore estate has famous artwork from Renoir and other world-renowned artists, while the downtown art district is littered with galleries, museums and artist studios. If you’re into craft beer, check out Oskar Blues and Wicked Weed Brewing.
Where to camp: Asheville Bear Creek RV Park and Asheville East KOA.
Bend, Oregon
This central Oregon town is located on the Deschutes River, to the east of the lakes and high peaks of the Cascade Mountains. To give you Oregon road trip perspective, Bend is about a three-and-a-half-hour drive from Portland and a two-and-a-half-hour drive from Eugene.
On the bike: From Bend, there are over 300 miles of mountain biking trails that are mostly accessible right from town, and most of the trail surface is smooth and fairly easy to ride. If you’re willing to drive an hour or so, the Mackenzie River Trail, Mount Bachelor Ski Resort and the Wanoga trail system offer hundreds of miles of additional trails with a wide variety of terrain and beautiful views.
Off the bike: The High Desert Museum has a cool wildlife exhibit, while the National Volcanic Monument is a must-see for its Lava River Cave. Bend is also a hotspot for foodies and beer lovers.
Where to camp: Scandia RV Park and Tumalo Stat Park.
Also Read: 7 Outdoor Adventure Bachelor Party Destinations
East Burke, Vermont
Near the Canadian border, the secluded mountain town of East Burke can be difficult to get to, but is still doable and worth the effort. If you’re on the East Coast, East Burke is about a three-hour drive from Boston and an hour and a half from Burlington.
On the bike: Without a doubt, East Burke is one of the best places to ride a mountain bike in the entire country. The Kingdom Trails network has something for all ability levels, with well-groomed doubletrack for beginners and tight, fast, flowing singletrack for those more experienced cyclists. Burke Mountain, Darling Hill and Dead Moose Alley are a few of the areas you’ll want to check out between May and October—all of which are known for their classic wooded and pastoral Vermont setting.
Off the bike: East Burke Village is the perfect place to relax in a truly peaceful atmosphere. Country inns, cafes, parks and laid back restaurants are the name of the game here. If you want to keep exploring, you’ll find opportunities for fishing, hiking and rock climbing nearby.
Where to camp: If you pass on the more convenient bed & breakfast lodging options, Moose River Campground is roughly 11 miles away.
Harrisonburg, Virginia
The East Coast mountain town of Harrisonburg is located in Virginia’s Shenandoah Valley. The closest nearby cities are Charlottesville and Richmond, with Washington D.C. further east.
On the bike: What’s nice about the 500 miles of diverse trails around Harrisonburg is that they can all be accessed from various points around town. The George Washington National Forest contains most of your biking trail options, ranging from easy loops at Hillandale Park to technical downhill courses that can be reached via lift at the epic Bryce Mountain Bike Park.
Off the bike: Architecture, culturally diverse restaurants, bike shops and a booming Arts District are a few of the attractions you’ll get to enjoy when you’re off the bike. If you’re into nightlife, the nearby James Madison University and its youthful population should provide plenty of afterhours fun.
Where to camp: Harrisonburg/Shenandoah Valley KOA and Dundo Group Campground.
Downieville, California
Located in the foothills of the Sierra Nevada Mountains, the tiny town of Downieville has remained active for years from mountain bike tourism. Also nearby are Lakes Basin and Mills Peak, which offer additional trails and a couple of fast descents for anyone into downhill biking.
On the bike: This bucket list location has 500 miles of trails with picturesque alpine scenery. What makes Downieville such a treat is the trail variety—ranging from easy to technical and every style in between. This makes a weekend of riding equally fun for beginners and experts. Check out the Downieville Classic, a two-day race in the summer that drops 5,000 feet in 15 miles.
Off the bike: This gold rush town is quaint and a great alternative to the hustle and bustle of big cities. Tahoe National Forest is an excellent place to hike, while the Underground Gold Miners Museum will be enjoyable for history buffs. Photography fans will enjoy taking pictures by the river, and you can head into town for pizza and ice cream when you’ve worked up an appetite.
Where to camp: Union Flat and Ramshorn.
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