We all know what happens when you cycle through the same channels, movies, and shows that you know and love while trying to find something to watch. If there’s nothing new available, then you end up settling for what you’ve seen before but don’t mind watching again. The same thing can happen to mountain bikers and the trails they ride on. If a new trail is not an option, then they choose the best of what they know.
If you’re tired of cycling and want to recapture the thrill of mountain biking down trails for the first time then a trip to Mammoth Lakes should be in the cards for you. Mammoth Lakes is one of the best mountain biking destinations in the world, and the ASO Mammoth team has put together a guide here that will help locals explore the area and introduce visitors to it. Check it out below and visit the ASO Mammoth shop before your next mountain biking trip!
Mountain View Trail
Near Mammoth Mountain, Mountain View Trail is a 5.3-mile trail that descends from Minaret Vista all the way down to Mammoth Lakes and the Earthquake fault. Although you can lengthen the ride by also biking up the mountain and then enjoying the trail back down, the most popular way to bike Mountain View Trail is to start at the top and then ride all the way down into town. Along the way you’ll enjoy stunning views, diverse nature, and plenty of fresh mountain air to breathe in on sections where you have to pedal.
See more info on mammothtrails.org
Lower Rock Creek
Lower Rock Creek is one of the most popular mountain biking trails off Mammoth Mountain thanks to the amount of terrain surrounding the trail and the technical features that appeal to skilled riders. Lower Rock Creek trail is actually outside of Mammoth Lakes, so if you want to ride it then you will need to travel to do so, but the ride is well worth the trip. Lower Rock Creek is a 7.8-mile trail with some challenging spots for mountain bikers and many rocky areas, so if you’re looking for a trail to test your skills then Lower Rock Creek should be next on your list.
See more info on fs.usda.gov
Mammoth Rock Trail
Beat the heat by waking up early for a 5.2-mile ride past the 250-million-year-old Mammoth Rock. The scenery surrounding Mammoth Rock trail will make it hard to keep your eyes on what’s in front of you, but there are also portions of the trail that are technical enough to demand the attention of even experienced mountain bikers. Many parts of the trail are exposed to strong sunlight, so avoid this trail during the hottest part of the day.
See more info on mammothtrails.org
Horseshoe Lake Loop Trail
Sometimes the best ride is the easiest ride, and Horseshoe Lake Loop Trail is the easiest trail on this list thanks to its mostly dirt and gravel surface, accessible trailhead, and 1.7-mile distance.
Don’t be fooled though, just because this trail is perfect for beginners and families doesn’t mean that it’s not worth a try. The short distance and proximity to water, campgrounds, and other trails makes Horseshoe Lake Loop trail one of the best in Mammoth Lakes.
See more info on mammothtrails.org
Each of the trails on this list are open to hikers as well as mountain bikers, so if you do visit one of them make sure to keep your eyes open to avoid accidents. If you know the trail is crowded or are approaching a blind turn, keep your speed down and always be considerate of others as you ride past them. Everyone deserves a good day out in the Mammoth Lakes’ wilderness, so do your best to share it!
Visit our Mountain Biking Trail Maps page for more trails!