Single track or double; chugging up the toughest of climbs or diving down into canyons and creeks; rolling over granite gardens or through stately old forests; family-friendly rides on paved trails: we’ve got it all. And we like to share.

SierraOutdoorRecreation.com summarizes the most popular trails here and suggests connecting trails and loop options. We list specific biking information for each trail. More detailed descriptions for individual trails are found in each Area Guide listed below. Most trails are shown on Area Maps. Hot links are shown for trails that will quickly link you to the general description for each trail. The trails listed in this section are favorites of mountain bikers. Many more trails other than these biking favorites are found in each Area Guide.

First a few details:

Trails closed to Mountain Biking:

Bicycles are not allowed in Wilderness areas or on the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT). Individual trails are closed to the use of mountain bikes on a case-by-case basis depending on other resource considerations. These trail closures are noted for each of the trails we describe. Changes in trail uses are often made and SierraOutdoorRecreation.com cannot always be current. Please, check beforehand with agencies or follow signed designations posted at the trailhead.

Trail courtesy:

Bikes, both mountain and motorized, should yield rights-of-way to all other users. Horses are particularly vulnerable because they sometimes spook when suddenly encountering unfamiliar objects. If you approach from the rear, speak up to let riders know you are there and wait for them to signal that it’s okay to pass. If they are coming toward you, dismount and wait on the downhill side of the trail for them to pass.

Resource protection:

Stay on designated trails. Don’t shortcut switchbacks or ride into areas off trails. Riders locking rear wheels, then skidding, cause washboard trails that lead to erosion. “Ride it; don’t slide it.” Sit back, gear down, and go slow. Limit braking to emergencies. If the erosion difficulty becomes prevalent, mountain bikes could be prohibited from problem trails. There are several trails where this has already occurred.

Trail descriptions and data:

Miles listed are one-way, unless the trail or trail combinations are noted as a “loop.” Single track (s/t) trails are constructed trails, one bike width or approximately 18” wide. Double track (d/t) “trails” are four-wheel vehicle roads that may or may not be still in use by motorized vehicles. But most are, so watch for traffic.

OHV Routes with Mountain Biking opportunities

Good

Reservoirs with Mountain Biking opportunities

Good

Trails with Mountain Biking opportunities

Exceptional Best Good