The 10 Best Mountain Biking Trails In California: An In-Depth Guide

California is a paradise for mountain biking enthusiasts, boasting a diverse range of trails that traverse its stunning landscapes. From the rugged Sierra Nevada mountains to the sun-drenched coastal trails, California offers a mountain biking experience like no other. Whether you're a seasoned pro looking for a new challenge or a beginner seeking a scenic ride, California's trails cater to all levels and preferences. In this article, we'll explore the top 10 mountain biking trails in California, providing detailed insights into each to help you plan your next adventure.

1. Downieville Downhill - Sierra Nevada

Overview

Downieville Downhill is often hailed as one of the best mountain biking trails in the world. Located in the Sierra Nevada mountains, this trail is famous for its epic descents and stunning scenery. The trail starts at Packer Saddle and descends nearly 5,000 feet over 17 miles, offering a thrilling ride through diverse terrains. The Downieville Classic, an annual mountain bike race and festival, highlights the trail's significance in the biking community. The area’s history as a gold rush town adds an element of exploration to your ride, with historical markers and remnants of mining operations scattered throughout.

Trail Details

• Length: 17 miles
• Difficulty: Intermediate to Advanced
• Highlights: The trail features a mix of singletrack and doubletrack, with technical rock gardens, fast-flowing sections, and breathtaking views of the Sierra Nevada. Riders will traverse through dense forests, over rocky outcrops, and along scenic rivers. Notable sections include the "First Divide" and "Third Divide," known for their thrilling descents and technical challenges.

Tips for Riders

• Best Time to Ride: Late spring to early fall.
• Shuttle Service: Many riders use a shuttle service to reach the trailhead at Packer Saddle.
• Nearby Facilities: Downieville offers bike shops, lodging, and dining options for a comfortable stay.
• Safety Note: Due to its remote location, carrying a first-aid kit and sufficient supplies is essential.

2. Mammoth Mountain Bike Park - Eastern Sierra

Overview

Mammoth Mountain Bike Park is a premier destination for mountain bikers, offering over 80 miles of trails that cater to all skill levels. Located in the Eastern Sierra, Mammoth Mountain is renowned for its lift-served bike park, providing easy access to a variety of trails. The park’s high elevation ensures a long riding season, often extending from late spring to early fall. Mammoth Mountain’s volcanic landscape offers a unique riding experience, with trails winding through pumice fields and ancient lava flows, providing a surreal backdrop.

Trail Details

• Length: 80+ miles
• Difficulty: Beginner to Advanced
• Highlights: The park features a wide range of trails, from smooth, flowy beginner trails to challenging technical descents. The "Off the Top" trail offers stunning panoramic views and a thrilling ride down the mountain. Other popular trails include "Brake Through" and "Velocity DH," known for their diverse terrain and technical sections.

Tips for Riders

• Lift Pass: Purchase a lift pass for easy access to the trails.
• Protective Gear: Full-face helmets and protective gear are recommended for the more technical trails.
• Nearby Facilities: Mammoth Lakes provides ample lodging, dining, and bike rental options.
• Trail Etiquette: Respect the environment and other trail users by staying on designated trails and minimizing your impact.

3. Mount Lowe Railway - San Gabriel Mountains

Overview

The Mount Lowe Railway trail in the San Gabriel Mountains offers a unique blend of history and adventure. This trail follows the path of the historic Mount Lowe Railway, providing riders with a scenic and challenging ride. The railway, once a major tourist attraction, now serves as a gateway to explore the rugged beauty of the San Gabriel Mountains. The trail offers a mix of scenic overlooks, historical ruins, and challenging terrain, making it a favorite among history buffs and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

Trail Details

• Length: 14 miles
• Difficulty: Intermediate
• Highlights: The trail features a mix of singletrack and fire roads, with stunning views of the Los Angeles Basin and the San Gabriel Mountains. Riders will encounter historical landmarks, including the ruins of the Mount Lowe Railway, Echo Mountain House, and the Alpine Tavern. The trail’s unique combination of natural beauty and historical significance sets it apart from other mountain biking trails.

Tips for Riders

• Best Time to Ride: Fall to spring, as summer can be extremely hot.
• Trail Conditions: Check trail conditions before heading out, especially after rain.
• Nearby Facilities: Pasadena offers lodging, dining, and bike shops for all your needs.
• Historical Interest: Take time to explore the historical markers and ruins along the trail for a richer experience.

4. Annadel State Park - Sonoma County

Overview

Annadel State Park in Sonoma County is a favorite among mountain bikers for its diverse trails and beautiful scenery. The park offers over 40 miles of trails that wind through oak woodlands, grasslands, and rocky outcrops. Located near the heart of California’s wine country, Annadel provides an excellent combination of challenging rides and post-ride relaxation in nearby wineries. The park’s varied terrain and rich biodiversity make it a hotspot for outdoor enthusiasts, offering both technical challenges and scenic tranquility.

Trail Details

• Length: 40+ miles
• Difficulty: Beginner to Advanced
• Highlights: The "Ridge Trail" and "South Burma Trail" are popular routes that offer a mix of technical challenges and scenic views. The park’s wildflower displays in the spring are particularly stunning, and Lake Ilsanjo provides a picturesque spot for a mid-ride break. Other notable trails include "Rough Go," known for its technical rocky sections, and "Marsh Trail," which offers smoother, flowy riding.

Tips for Riders

• Trail Map: Carry a trail map, as the park has numerous intersecting trails.
• Best Time to Ride: Spring and fall offer the best conditions.
• Nearby Facilities: Santa Rosa provides lodging, dining, and bike rental services.
• Local Attractions: Take advantage of the proximity to Sonoma County’s wineries for a post-ride wine tasting experience.

5. Tahoe Rim Trail - Lake Tahoe

Overview

The Tahoe Rim Trail offers some of the most spectacular mountain biking in California. Encircling Lake Tahoe, this trail provides riders with stunning views, challenging terrain, and a true backcountry experience. The trail traverses through two states, California and Nevada, and offers varied landscapes including alpine meadows, dense forests, and rocky ridgelines. The trail is part of the larger Tahoe Rim Trail system, which covers 165 miles and connects with other famous trails like the Pacific Crest Trail. The trail's high elevation and proximity to Lake Tahoe provide riders with breathtaking panoramic views and diverse ecosystems.

Trail Details

• Length: 165 miles (various segments available)
• Difficulty: Intermediate to Advanced
• Highlights: The trail features a mix of singletrack and fire roads, with challenging climbs and exhilarating descents. The segment from Tahoe City to Brockway Summit is particularly popular for its breathtaking views and technical sections. Other notable segments include "Flume Trail," known for its cliffside singletrack and stunning lake views, and "Kingsbury South to Spooner Summit," offering a mix of technical terrain and scenic beauty.

Tips for Riders

• Permits: Some sections require permits, so check ahead.
• Camping: Several backcountry campsites are available for multi-day rides.
• Nearby Facilities: Tahoe City and South Lake Tahoe offer lodging, dining, and bike rental services.
• Weather Considerations: Be prepared for rapidly changing weather conditions, especially at higher elevations.

6. Auburn State Recreation Area - Sierra Nevada Foothills

Overview

Auburn State Recreation Area is a mountain biking haven located in the Sierra Nevada foothills. The area offers a variety of trails that wind through scenic canyons, along rivers, and over rolling hills. The recreation area encompasses over 40,000 acres, providing ample space for exploring. Auburn’s trails are known for their challenging climbs, technical descents, and stunning views of the American River. The area’s mining history adds an element of discovery to your ride, with many trails following old mining routes and featuring remnants of the gold rush era.

Trail Details

• Length: 100+ miles
• Difficulty: Beginner to Advanced
• Highlights: The "Confluence Trail" and "Clementine Loop" are popular routes that offer technical challenges and beautiful views of the American River. The area’s diverse terrain provides something for every rider, from smooth singletrack to rocky, technical sections. Other notable trails include "Foresthill Divide Loop," known for its flowy singletrack and scenic vistas, and "Stagecoach Trail," offering a steep, challenging climb with rewarding views.

Tips for Riders

• Trail Map: Carry a trail map to navigate the extensive network of trails.
• Best Time to Ride: Spring and fall offer ideal conditions.
• Nearby Facilities: Auburn provides lodging, dining, and bike rental services.
• Hydration: Ensure you carry plenty of water, especially during the hotter months.

7. Big Bear Mountain Resort - San Bernardino Mountains

Overview

Big Bear Mountain Resort is a premier mountain biking destination in Southern California, offering lift-served trails that cater to all skill levels. The resort is located in the San Bernardino Mountains and provides stunning alpine scenery. Big Bear Lake’s high elevation ensures cool summer temperatures and a long riding season. The resort’s bike park features a variety of trails, including flow trails, technical descents, and jump lines, making it a favorite among downhill enthusiasts. The resort’s dedicated trail maintenance and development team ensures that the trails are in top condition throughout the season.

Trail Details

• Length: 60+ miles
• Difficulty: Beginner to Advanced
• Highlights: The "Skyline Trail" offers a challenging ride with breathtaking views of Big Bear Lake and the surrounding mountains. The resort’s bike park features flow trails, technical descents, and jump lines. Other popular trails include "Miracle Mile," known for its technical features and fast flow, and "Party Wave," offering a fun, jump-filled descent.

Tips for Riders

• Lift Pass: Purchase a lift pass for easy access to the trails.
• Protective Gear: Full-face helmets and protective gear are recommended for the more technical trails.
• Nearby Facilities: Big Bear Lake offers lodging, dining, and bike rental services.
• Trail Etiquette: Follow resort rules and respect other riders to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone.

8. Aliso and Wood Canyons Wilderness Park - Orange County

Overview

Aliso and Wood Canyons Wilderness Park is a popular mountain biking destination in Orange County, offering a variety of trails that wind through scenic canyons and rolling hills. The park is known for its technical challenges and stunning coastal views. Located just a short drive from Laguna Beach, the park provides a convenient escape for Southern California riders. The park’s diverse ecosystems and unique geological features make it a fascinating place to explore on two wheels, with trails ranging from easy fire roads to challenging singletrack.

Trail Details

• Length: 30+ miles
• Difficulty: Beginner to Advanced
• Highlights: The "Rock-It Trail" and "Meadows Trail" are favorites among riders for their technical sections and beautiful scenery. The park’s proximity to the coast provides stunning ocean views and a unique riding experience. Other notable trails include "Lynx," known for its steep, rocky descents, and "Mathis Canyon," offering a challenging climb with rewarding views at the top.

Tips for Riders

• Best Time to Ride: Fall to spring, as summer can be extremely hot.
• Trail Conditions: Check trail conditions before heading out, especially after rain.
• Nearby Facilities: Laguna Beach and Aliso Viejo offer lodging, dining, and bike shops.
• Wildlife: Be aware of local wildlife, including rattlesnakes and mountain lions, and know how to respond if encountered.

9. Mount Tamalpais State Park - Marin County

Overview

Mount Tamalpais State Park, often referred to as the birthplace of mountain biking, offers an array of trails that cater to all skill levels. Located in Marin County, the park provides stunning views of the San Francisco Bay and the Pacific Ocean. The park’s rich history and varied terrain make it a must-visit for any mountain biking enthusiast. Mount Tamalpais, or "Mount Tam," has a storied past, with early mountain biking pioneers like Gary Fisher and Joe Breeze having tested their early bikes on these trails. The park offers a mix of open ridgelines, dense forests, and coastal views.

Trail Details

• Length: 60+ miles
• Difficulty: Beginner to Advanced
• Highlights: The "Coastal Trail" and "Matt Davis Trail" are popular routes that offer a mix of technical challenges and scenic beauty. The park’s varied terrain and rich history make it a must-visit for any mountain biking enthusiast. Other notable trails include "Eldridge Grade," known for its long, steady climb with rewarding views at the top, and "Hoo-Koo-E-Koo Trail," offering a mix of technical sections and flowy singletrack.

Tips for Riders

• Trail Map: Carry a trail map to navigate the extensive network of trails.
• Best Time to Ride: Spring and fall offer ideal conditions.
• Nearby Facilities: Mill Valley and Sausalito provide lodging, dining, and bike rental services.
• Local Culture: Take time to visit the Marin Museum of Bicycling in Fairfax to learn more about the area’s mountain biking history.

10. Siskiyou Wilderness - Northern California

Overview

The Siskiyou Wilderness in Northern California offers a true backcountry mountain biking experience. This remote and rugged area is perfect for those seeking solitude and adventure. The trails wind through dense forests, over rocky ridges, and along pristine rivers. Covering over 153,000 acres, the Siskiyou Wilderness is one of the most remote and least-visited areas in California, providing a pristine environment for an adventurous ride. The area’s diverse ecosystems, including old-growth forests and alpine meadows, provide a unique and challenging riding experience.

Trail Details

• Length: 100+ miles
• Difficulty: Intermediate to Advanced
• Highlights: The "Clear Creek National Recreation Trail" offers a challenging ride through stunning wilderness scenery. The trail features technical sections, steep climbs, and fast descents. Other notable trails include "Klamath River Loop," known for its challenging terrain and scenic river views, and "Marble Mountain Trail," offering a rugged backcountry experience with diverse landscapes.

Tips for Riders

• Permits: Some sections require permits, so check ahead.
• Camping: Several backcountry campsites are available for multi-day rides.
• Nearby Facilities: Crescent City and Grants Pass provide lodging, dining, and bike rental services.
• Preparation: Ensure you are well-prepared with sufficient supplies, a detailed map, and knowledge of backcountry navigation.

Conclusion

California offers an abundance of mountain biking trails that cater to all levels of experience and skill. From the technical challenges of Downieville Downhill to the scenic beauty of Mount Tamalpais, there is something for everyone. Whether you're looking for a leisurely ride through serene landscapes or an adrenaline-pumping adventure on rugged terrain, California's trails provide a diverse and exciting range of options. So gear up, hit the trails, and discover the best of what California has to offer for mountain biking enthusiasts. Happy trails!