Once you are out on the trail you will see remarkable views of Helena Valley below. There are 63 trails and most of them are designed for beginner or intermediate riders. Its red-rock landscape is truly like nowhere else on Earth, and the best way to appreciate it is. Pro Tip: If you are a beginner rider then consider using flat pedals. A 5-star ranch, The Ranch at Rock Creek in west Montana also has the distinction of belonging to the Relais . This trail is located in Pony, Montana in the Tobacco Roots region. Some of those ridges are so spectacular that they are featured separately below (see #7 Mt. ", If you get the most stoked for the downhill part of every ride, you won't want to leave Montana without experiencing Palisades, the best descent in the Bitterroot Valley, according to Chad DeVall. The black diamond course is rated as expert level and stretches up to 16 miles. But the Rattlesnake Loop offers a14.8-mile roller coaster of a ride. Montana is a very large state and therefore requires a lot of hands to keep the land healthy and serving mountain bikers from all over the World. One of the towns with the best mountain views is Darby, which is in Ravalli county close to the Idaho border. The trail goes further to the peak of the trail where bikers are rewarded with a quick rapid and descent that is extra fun. The city is situated along the Missouri River and was once a major hub for steamboat transportation in the region. The Auburn State Recreation Area features plenty of hiking trails along lakes and through trees that all outdoor adventurers adore. Population: 1,933. Top 10 Mountain Bike Towns in the US with the Lowest Cost of Living 1. hiking, mountain biking, and . Commentdocument.getElementById("comment").setAttribute( "id", "a66401d09114628b025d7fb57d4ca8c2" );document.getElementById("a590a7590e").setAttribute( "id", "comment" ); Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. There are many communities surrounded by dense trail networks, such as Missoula, Bozeman, Butte, and Helena, and there are small mountain towns with great access to big mountain epics, such as Red Lodge, Whitefish, or Philipsburg. Warm Springs Ridge: Warm Springs Ridge is touted as one of the best trails in the area. Big Sky is another great Montana town for mountain views and offers vistas of the Gallatin Range, the Madison Range, and the Absaroka Range, in addition to several others. (In other words,don't go alone.) The 30 Best Mountain Towns in America and Around the World. Towards the right side, move downhill along a smooth trackback to Porcupine Creek. After a loose and bumpy climb to the highest point of the course, the trail transforms into a very quick descent characterized by a number of switchbacks and obstacles, including rock, berms, and roots, which ultimately test the level of fitness and biking skills. Marshall Mountain lies just east of the Rattlesnake, NE of Missoula. The closest shop is over 30 minutes away and if they are closed you will likely need to drive to Missoula for your service. It is a 2 mile climb with just under 700 feet of climbing. The trail begins at around 5,800 feet and climbs up and over 10,000 feet where the trees disappear. Built in 1991, the home sits on. The resort has 40 trails, 23 miles of downhill trails, 9 miles of cross country trails, and about 2,350 vertical feet of descent from the top of the lift. But instead of the crowded touristy lodges and casinos that steal a bit of South . It is the perfect place to get started on a mountain bike and learn the basics. The Boise River Greenbelt is a 25-mile riverfront . It is about 20 miles of riding with over 4000 feet of climbing. The hard work is greatly rewarded with incredible views and fun trails. A silver-level IMBA Ride Center, Copper Harbor is one of the crown jewels of Midwest mountain biking, hidden away in the farthest reaches of Michigan's Upper Peninsula. The Mt. "For the more athletic-inspired mountain bikers you can choose one of five different loops. 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. A car tire can be inflated using a bicycle pump. According to World Population Review, the town is located in Park County and has a small population of 77 (as of the 2020 consensus). And while it won't be easy to leave this peaceful iridescent place, you can look forward to a sweet buzz on the return downhill. Furthermore, you can find the picturesque wildlife hotspot Freezeout Lake nearby, along with other popular attractions of this region of Montana; Flathead National Forest, Lewis and Clark National Forest, and Glacier National Park. ), Best Tow Bar Bike Rack for Electric Bikes. Aside from the delicious sounding summer events, winter in Whitefish is all about skiing. The downhill trails offer 2 easier trails for beginners, 16 difficult trails for intermediate riders, and 4 trails for expert riders. The landscape also features rocky mountain ranges, making it more adventurous and fun for mountain bikers. This downhill section is so fast that the bikers may require taking a break to rest their breaking fingers/hands before proceeding. Before riding at the South Hills Trail Network, download the Trailforks App in order to see all of the parking locations. Climbing over 1,000 feet out of town, the trail then cascades eight miles down technical singletrack, weaving through the trees. Established as a National Park in 1910 it is a land of mountain ranges carved by prehistoric ice rivers. 1. This is a perfect spot for working out and mostly parked on weekends and during holidays. Pro Tip: Since this is such a long trail, you will need to pack food for your journey. If you are unsure of how much food you will need, then start by counting out 200 calories per hour and adjust from there. Climb the singletrack occasionally rutted until crossing the first creek; proceed down, and right to the next junction beyond the second creek. Helena Ridge Trail or you can take the free community shuttle. In terms of difficulty level, it is rated as intermediate. Getty Images. The resort also offers youth camps and downhill coaching. There are several amazing small mountain towns in Montana. You can rent afull suspension mountain bike for about $50 a day at Round House, just down the street from therecently opened Outlaw Brewing, where the Tumbleweeds food truck is smoking pork daily for its BBQ burrito. There are any number of great mountain biking trails in the Spokane, WA area, but if local resident Kate Hudson had to pick just one, she'd choose the Mount Spokane Bike Trail 140, less than an hour drive from downtown. "It's a dirt route stretching 2,800 miles from Banff to Antelope Wells, giving a rider the remote wilderness experience, battling terrain, weather, and physical and mental strength." Libby sits tucked up in northwest Montana, and it's a total gem. If you don't have time to ride the entire Divide (and climb 200,000 feet), you can get a wild taste of it bike-packing through Montana, where the 726-mile portion offers some of the route's most challenging and breathtaking mountain passes, stretching through Whitefish, Helena, and Butte, and the smaller towns of Eureka, Ovando, and Lakeview. Helena Ridge When it comes to biking in rain, there is a frown on all our faces thinking that it isnt a good idea. Not everybody that enjoys mountain biking is a 20-something, witness the passion of baby boomer 1, outgoing George W. Bush, for the sport. This July, test your fitness skills at the Dirty Girl Mud Run obstacle course race, or your culinary knowledge at the Killington Wine Festival. Carry your bottle with you as you ride up the lift so that you remember to drink throughout the day. McKenzie River Trail. Similar to Bozeman, this place also has something of a historic feel and a storybook-like charm that comes from being located in a region of such impressive and awe-inspiring landscapes. You will also interact with new people and make new friends as you bike along the trail. Once youve entered into the world of a motorized bike, there is a good chance that youll never want to go back. Most people will complete an out and back or various loops that extend off of the main trail. Located 60 miles east of Bozeman in an area where the Rocky Mountains meet with the plains. The descent was rated the 5th best mountain bike trail in Montana, so you don't want to miss this one if you are looking for the best that Montana has to offer. The descent was rated the 5th best mountain bike trail in Montana, so you dont want to miss this one if you are looking for the best that Montana has to offer. The locals most preferred this trail due to its diverse terrain and a sheer gonzo rocky cliff. One of our favorite downtowns in Montana is Philipsburg. The modestly technical single-track path has 50 switchbacks, steep climbs, beautiful forests, and gratifying views the whole way up, but particularly when you reach the 10,000-foot saddle. Situated near Lake McDonald in Montana, the MacDonald mountain biking trail is moderately trafficked and stretches up to 9.0 kilometers. It was a cloudy summer day with some scattered showers when we visited, so we skipped the ski resorts. On the Otter Slide, you may opt to attempt the machine-built flow tracks. Focus on keeping your effort consistent and avoid sprinting or sharp explosive efforts. This 10-mile route is an open secret, butit'll still likely just be you, fields of wildflowers, and the Big Sky if you take it. Subscribe my Newsletter for new blog posts, tips & new photos. Pass prices are to be determined when the season comes so you will need to keep an eye on the website for when they release prices. What once resembled an exclusive playground for crack shots has morphed into something all levels of riders can enjoy. Theviews of just about everymountain in the state from the Crazies to the Absarokas to the Gallatins isone of the reasons locals like Molly Ambrogi-Yanson, from the Montana Office of Tourism, call the Bangtail Dividetheir favorite. Each type of e-bike has its unique benefits. If you're not yet ready to jump a table-top, opt for a mellow session on Easy Rider accessible from the Explorer lift near Huntley Lodge then try the machine-built flow trails on the Otter Slide. Located in the city of Helena, which is the capital city of Montana. If you are new in Montana and wonder about some of the amusing and breathtaking mountain biking trails to navigate, this piece will be of much help. Mountain bikers may also come across some of the local wildlife in the region. The vistas seen from Going-To-The-Sun Road are breathtaking, a photographer's paradise. The downhill mountain biking style may seem intimidating, but every feature has a ride-around option. Expect to ride through big meadows and heavily forested areas where you can dodge some trees. Cooke City is one of the closest towns to Yellowstone National Park, lying to the northeast of the park on the scenic Beartooth Highway. Allow the bike to flow where it wants to go. The trail starts out on challenging terrain and will undulate between a 5-20% grade throughout much of the climb. These are the best small mountain towns with populations of about 10,000 or . I love seeing everyone smiling after they ride it." DeVall suggests doing the route clockwise. The town is something of a cowboy town, and is surrounded by some impressively high mountain backdrops by way of the three ranges of Madison, Gravelly, and Tobacco Root. Bozeman, in the southwest of Montana, is a great place if you're seeking clean, fresh air and a relaxing environment. Residents of Asheville and the surrounding area can easily visit the Blue Ridge Mountain Range. You opt to explore the mellow session if you are a novice rider and not yet skilled enough to jump a table-top. It is one of the most famous rides in Bozeman and is best ridden from South to North. Big Sky Resort is located in Big Sky, Montana. For example, non-foldable e-bikes are more streamlined and Because of the surge in popularity of electric bicycles, its vital that riders, regardless of whether they are seasoned e-bikers, newbies, or habitual e-bikers, be aware of the local e-bike regulations that are in effect in One of the fastest-growing areas of the bicycle industry is the market for electric bicycles, which is rapidly taking over the world. The top of the South Shore Traillooksout over the vast expanse of the northern Great Plains, just as Lewis and Clark saw them when theydiscovered the Great Falls over 200 years ago. The shores of City beach around the lake are a popular spot in the warmer months, making the town something of a year-round destination. "You follow the spine of the divide for approximately one hour through old growth Douglas Fir and challenge yourself through imbedded granite rock garden sections," says local rider Emmett Purcell. Jun 14, 2019. . Southwest Montana Mountain Bike Association: This trail group works to help build and maintain both new and surviving trails. It features sweeping vistas, mountainous recreational hubs, and prime wildlife habitat. Idaho Falls / Courtesy of Nicholas and Yin-Ying Sushkin under a CC 4.0 license. Most of the trails are fast, flowy and smooth but can still cater to every skill level looking to spend a fun day on the trails. Situated in the town of Red Lodge in Montana, this mountain biking trail is a few of the most famous tracks in the state and also one of the most interesting going by the technical hurdles it presents. Visit Big Sky explains that, there are 64 mountain ranges in total in Montana, , as per the Montana State Library. Rated as a silver level destination by the International Mountain Biking Association, Helena is the perfect spot for your next biking excursion. 1. The town has more than a touch of the historic about it which is evident from the Ennis Railroad and Cultural Heritage Museum, where you can get some deeper insights into the towns past. #explorewhitefish Author Name Author Name Author Name However, from May to October, the course is usually accessible daily, treating mountain bikers to a fantastic adventure and an intriguing natural sightseeing excursion. While the trail is extremely challenging, none of the features are mandatory and can be avoided if you find yourself hesitant. So here are a few options when it comes to some of the best mountain towns in Montana. If the closest lightning strike is within 10 miles then you should be seeking safety. But whatever your budget, you'll find the best places to stay with our list of the best resorts in Montana. It has 33 trails that range from intermediate to black diamond difficulty level. It would be a great choice for someone who is hesitant about testing their grit. Pro Tip: Since there are so many options of trails in this area, come to the trail network with a plan ahead of time. From bike-packing adventures to bike parks, and perfect single-track, here are the 15 best mountain biking trails in Montana. Mountain Laurel Trails encompass varying levels of difficulty for beginners as well as seasoned bikers to enjoy. The trail is ideal for bikers with different skills level, from beginners to experts. This trail was put in place through a collaborative community project geared by a Whitefish Legacy partner. If youre after a mountain view, Montana is one of the best states to be in. The mountain bike community in Montana is thriving with plenty of local race series, local pros, a high school league, and people willing to show you the ropes around every corner. The trail is a point to point mission and is best completed with a shuttle. One of the best places to mountain bike in the world, the McKenzie River Trail is made up of all things that a biking enthusiast is looking for- dense forests, lava rock sections, hot springs, bustling waterfalls and deep blue pools. Situated south of Bozeman in Montana, the Grizzly Mountain biking loop trail is quick-rolling singletrack with big-ring descents, and technical granny gear climbs. Helena Ridge). Cricket Butler, who has toured the Great Dividetrail twice and raced it three times, says if you're searching for just one(epic) ride in Montana, this is it. When you arrive at the Rattlesnake Trailhead there are multiple parking areas to choose from and a few restrooms to help you get kitted up and ready to tackle the trails! Early in the morning, drive 14 miles out of town and jump on the more popular route south to north, from Stone Creek to Brackett Creek. And dont forget a trip to Big Timbers old-fashioned soda fountain. The small mountain town of Big Timber is rife with impressive mountain views and a sense of the Old West that goes back to the days of the Northern Pacific Railway in Montana. Bozeman also provides fantastic views of the Rocky Mountains, as does Whitefish, which is located to the west of Glacier National Park. "The lake also has great camping and a fantastic swimming beach to knock the dust off at the end of the day.". The propagation of land in Montana, mostly mountainous and prairies terrain, and the population absence makes it an ideal destination for those seeking to deal with some of the most challenging and overwhelming trails globally. The Grizzly Mountain biking loop trail is managed by the office of USFS Gallatin National Forest. In actual fact, the name Montana comes from the Spanish word montaa, which means mountain. It's widely regarded as one of the best places to live in . Thus it would be best if you didnt compromise on it. The longtime locals are incredibly resilient, and with a population of 2,678, it's just the right size. This can be an out-and-back (push up/ride down) or ridden as a loop that utilizes a 15-mile climb up forest roads," says DeVall, who also raves about Como Lake and what he calls the locals' favorite "after-work/short-on-time loop." Whitefish Whitefish is a prime Montana mountain town with arguably the best skiing resort in the state. But it is a little more difficult to decide which is the best one. . It features alpine meadows, deep forests, waterfalls, about 25 glistening glaciers and 200 sparkling lakes. Once you have purchased your pass you can pick it up at the Mountain Village Plaza. Different Spokes Bike Shop rents Specialized bikes ($50/3hrs, $80/day), including a helmet and single ride lift pass, but not the Bike Haul Lift Ticket ($35). The Ranch at Rock Creek, Philipsburg. This system is located in Butte, Montana and has 16 trails, many loop or out and back options, difficult climbs, switchbacks, granite, and sand. In the town, youll find local stores including such delights as a junk shop and a mountain arts store, and lodgings can be found along with an abundance of huckleberry delicacies. But, that doesnt mean that one should stop having hopes for a good cycling experience. (Secret Tip), 9 Best Locks For E-Bikes (Guaranteed Safety), Can You Go Fast On A Folding Bike (How Fast? "The trail has fast rolling sections along with some fun technical limestone rock sections," says Purcell. Despite having a population of under 800 people, this tiny town in Vermont's Green Mountains sure packs in a lot of action. The trail begins with some climbing and gradual descending and about halfway across the plateau you will descend about 3500 vertical feet in 4 miles! View maps, Line Creek Plateau Red Lodge, Montana #2 Advanced | 16.0 mi Line Creek Plateau is a singletrack mountain bike trail in Red Lodge, Montana. It has a population of less than 3,000 and comes complete with friendly locals and stunning surrounding areas in the region of the Kootenai River. Montana has so many mountain towns its possible that you have never heard of some of them. In this region where the Line Creek Plateau is situated, inclement weather tends to change rapidly, including lightning storms and thunder during the months of summer. Cairns Way: This trail is marked as blue which would indicate an easier rating; however, beginners should be wary. It encompasses scenic overlooks, gate logging roads, stacked loops, and beautiful singletrack. Located along the Deschutes River in the foothills of the Cascade Mountains, Bend is what would happen if you had access to a magic mountain bike wand. King Arthur Park is generally considered a great place to raise a family. It can a difficult and long ride if you choose to ride from the start. 1. Click -> HERE, This site is owned and operated by River Traditions LLC, a limited liability company headquartered in Michigan, USA. Rent a Giant Stance 27.5 mountain bike from Grizzly Outfitters ($35/half day or $45/full day). Make sure that you start early enough to be able to make it back to your vehicle before dark. Let's stay updated! Looking for more How To MTB articles? The highway continues through the Beartooth Mountains and across the Beartooth Plateau, reaching elevation levels of more than 10,900 feet (3,322 meters). Of course, you have the legendary Moab bike scene. Meanwhile, Sheraton Steamboat Resort (from $179) provides easy access to Steamboat Bike Park. Wendy Altschuler. 15 Bob Allen by Montana, home to over 100 ranges, has some of the best mountain biking trails in America. Seattle has gone to great lengths to build some of the best and most well-protected bike lanes in the U.S. Fort Benton is a small, charming city located in north-central Montana and is known for its rich history and stunning natural beauty. Utah has A LOT of the best mountain biking towns in the country. MacDonald Pass mountain biking trail is the classic ride in Helena, Montana, equally famous for its killer views and downhill slopes. 970-870-2220. Bicycle Engine Durability: How Long Will They Last? The main downside is e-bikes have a limited range. Various Spokes Bike Shop hires specialized mountain bikes for $80 per day or $50 for 3 hours; this includes a single lift pass and a helmet. Marshall Mountain has been home to the collegiate mountain bike national championship and is currently home to a UCI Pro XCT event and a local race series.