Mountain Bike Life
Check out our video resources to learn more about the mountain bike life in Idaho.
You don’t need to travel far to find excellent mountain biking in Idaho. Regardless of where you travel on any given weekend, consider bringing your mountain bike. The entire state is a gigantic mountain biking playground.
You’ll find trails that match all skill levels, distances, and challenges in the Boise area. One point of commonality presented on nearly every track is compacted dirt, creating smooth and fast rides. While most of the short trails are in the open country of the foothills, the longer rides present a good mix of trees in the upper region, opening up to fast stretches with vast valley views.
For a fun and fast loop, head up to Bogus Basin for the Around the Mountain loop. This single-track trail presents some fantastic views and is best ridden in mid-summer into early fall. (During other times of the year, ice and snow can limit trail use.)
For a convenient ride from downtown Boise, consider Sidewinder to Freestone. This fun, single-track trail takes no longer than three hours and winds through the central foothills with vast stretches of amazing views and comfortably fast downhill sections.
If you have an entire morning to ride (5 – 6 hours), look no further than “The Big Potato.” (This trail name is just fun to say.) This 41-mile trail is unique due to the impressive increase in elevation. Let that sink in for a moment—6,500 feet of climbing. After the dramatic ascent, you’ll find yourself on the Around the Mountain trail, enjoying views matched only by the pleasure of an awesome descent.
With so many trail options, mountain biking in Idaho is sure to please riders of every skill level.
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Idaho is a fantastic destination for mountain biking enthusiasts. With its diverse terrain, stunning landscapes, and extensive trail networks, there are plenty of opportunities to enjoy thrilling rides and explore the state's natural beauty. Here's some information to help you plan your mountain biking adventure in Idaho:
Trail Systems: Idaho offers a variety of trail systems catering to riders of different skill levels. Some popular mountain biking destinations include:
Bogus Basin:
Located near Boise, Bogus Basin offers a network of trails suitable for beginners to advanced riders. It provides scenic views of the surrounding mountains and has options for downhill and cross-country riding.
Galena Lodge:
Situated in the Sawtooth National Recreation Area, Galena Lodge has a range of trails that wind through picturesque meadows and forests. The trails cater to different skill levels, and you can enjoy stunning views of the Sawtooth Mountains.
Schweitzer Mountain:
Located near Sandpoint, Schweitzer Mountain Resort offers a variety of trails for mountain biking. With over 40 miles of cross-country and downhill trails, riders of all abilities can find something suitable.
Teton Valley Trails and Pathways:
Located in Driggs, this trail system offers over 10 miles of purpose-built mountain biking trails. The scenic Teton Valley backdrop makes for an enjoyable riding experience.
Mountain Biking Events:
Idaho hosts several mountain biking events throughout the year. These events attract riders from all over and provide opportunities to challenge yourself and connect with the local biking community. Some popular events include the Rebecca's Private Idaho, an annual gravel bike race in Ketchum, and various races and festivals organized by local biking clubs.
Bike Parks:
Idaho is also home to a few bike parks where you can enjoy downhill and freeride trails, jumps, and other features. One notable bike park is Silver Mountain Bike Park in Kellogg, which offers lift-accessed trails suitable for riders of different skill levels.
Safety and Preparation:
When mountain biking in Idaho, it's important to prioritize safety. Make sure to wear appropriate safety gear, including a helmet, knee and elbow pads, and gloves. Carry a repair kit, extra water, snacks, and a map of the trail system. Familiarize yourself with the trail difficulty ratings and choose trails that match your skill level.
Local Regulations and Conservation:
Respect the local regulations and guidelines for mountain biking in Idaho. Stay on designated trails, be aware of wildlife and their habitats, and leave no trace by properly disposing of your trash. Help preserve the natural beauty of Idaho for future riders.
Before heading out on your mountain biking adventure, check local trail conditions and weather forecasts. It's always a good idea to consult local biking clubs or visit visitor centers for up-to-date information on trails, closures, and any specific considerations.
Enjoy your mountain biking experience in Idaho!
More Time for Family...
Significantly reduced commute times are among the first things people notice, especially if they’re from California or Washington. With a reduced commute time, you’ll spend less time on the road and more time enjoying life.
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More Time for Fishing...
Fishing in Idaho is so extraordinary you’ll have a lifetime of fishing tales to share with your out-of-state friends in no time at all. Fish filled rivers, creeks, ponds, lakes, and reservoirs are everywhere!
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More Time for Hunting...
Idaho has the widest variety of big game hunting in the west and some of the world’s best elk hunting. The general season tag also called an over-the-counter tag, allows hunting for deer, elk, black bear, mountain lion, and wolf.
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REVIEWS
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