Whistler, British Columbia, Canada
Whistler is a renowned mountain biking destination, offering a vast network of trails suitable for all skill levels. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced rider, Whistler has something for everyone. With breathtaking views and challenging terrain, this is a must-visit spot for mountain biking enthusiasts. The Whistler Mountain Bike Park is famous for its gravity-fed trails that cater to downhill riders of all levels. Riders can enjoy the thrill of riding through lush forests and over rocky terrain while taking in stunning mountain views. Apart from the Bike Park, Whistler also has a plethora of cross-country trails that allow riders to explore the surrounding backcountry and experience the natural beauty of the area.
Moab, Utah, USA
Moab boasts some of the most iconic mountain biking trails in the world, such as the Slickrock Trail and the Porcupine Rim Trail. The red rock landscape and unique terrain make Moab a favorite among riders looking for an adrenaline-pumping experience. The Slickrock Trail is especially famous for its challenging sandstone surface that requires skill and balance to navigate. Riders in Moab can expect technical climbs, thrilling descents, and jaw-dropping views of the surrounding desert landscape. In addition to the classic trails, Moab also offers a variety of lesser-known routes that provide riders with a mix of technical challenges and natural beauty.
Finale Ligure, Italy
Located on the Italian Riviera, Finale Ligure offers a diverse range of trails surrounded by stunning Mediterranean views. From flowy singletracks to technical descents, this destination has something for every rider. The coastal town of Finale Ligure is a paradise for mountain bikers, with trails that wind through olive groves, vineyards, and historic villages. Riders can enjoy a mix of fast and flowy trails as well as more technical sections that test their skills. The mild climate and picturesque setting make Finale Ligure a popular destination for riders looking to combine great riding with a relaxing beach vacation.
Rotorua, New Zealand
Known for its geothermal features and lush forests, Rotorua is a paradise for mountain bikers. The Whakarewarewa Forest is home to an extensive trail network, including the famous Redwoods trail system. Rotorua offers a unique mountain biking experience, with trails that wind through towering Redwoods, past steaming geothermal pools, and over volcanic terrain. Riders in Rotorua can choose from a variety of trails that cater to different skill levels, from beginner-friendly loops to technical descents with features like rock gardens and drop-offs. The vibrant mountain biking community in Rotorua ensures that visitors have access to trail maps, bike rentals, and guided tours to make the most of their riding experience.
Zermatt, Switzerland
Zermatt is a picturesque alpine village nestled at the foot of the iconic Matterhorn peak. The region offers a variety of trails that showcase the stunning Swiss Alps, making it a must-visit destination for mountain biking enthusiasts. Zermatt’s mountain biking trails provide riders with unparalleled views of glaciers, alpine meadows, and rugged peaks. The trails range from mellow rides through scenic valleys to challenging descents with technical features like rock gardens and steep switchbacks. With a backdrop of the Matterhorn looming overhead, riders in Zermatt can enjoy a truly unforgettable mountain biking experience that combines natural beauty with adrenaline-pumping descents.
Chamonix, France
Chamonix is a mecca for outdoor enthusiasts, with world-class skiing, climbing, and mountain biking opportunities. The rugged terrain and panoramic views of Mont Blanc make it a popular destination for adventurous riders. Chamonix is a paradise for adrenaline junkies, with trails that offer a mix of fast descents, technical features, and stunning alpine views. Riders can tackle steep and rocky terrain while enjoying the backdrop of Europe’s highest peak. The Chamonix Valley is home to a variety of trails that cater to different riding styles, from flowy singletracks to challenging downhill routes. After a day of riding, cyclists can relax in one of the many cafes or bars in Chamonix town, surrounded by the buzz of the outdoor sports community.
Morzine, France
Located in the French Alps, Morzine is a popular mountain biking destination known for its extensive network of lift-accessed trails. Riders can enjoy a mix of downhill runs and cross-country trails, all set against a stunning alpine backdrop. Morzine is a hub for mountain bikers seeking a mix of gravity-assisted riding and epic cross-country adventures. The Portes du Soleil region, of which Morzine is a part, offers over 600 kilometers of interconnected trails that span across France and Switzerland. Riders can access the high-altitude peaks via chairlifts and gondolas, and descend through forests, alpine meadows, and challenging rock gardens. The village of Morzine provides a vibrant après-bike scene, with plenty of accommodation, dining, and bike shops catering to the needs of mountain biking enthusiasts.
Bend, Oregon, USA
Bend offers a diverse range of mountain biking trails, from the fast-flowing singletracks of Phil’s Trail to the technical descents of the Deschutes River Trail. The high-desert landscape and mild climate make Bend a year-round mountain biking hotspot. Bend’s trail system spans across the rugged terrain of Central Oregon, offering riders a mix of terrain and landscapes to explore. Riders can tackle rocky descents, navigate technical features, and cruise through pine forests, all within a short distance of the vibrant city of Bend. The local mountain biking community in Bend is active and supportive, with regular group rides, trail maintenance days, and events that showcase the area’s diverse riding opportunities.
Squamish, British Columbia, Canada
Squamish is a coastal mountain biking destination with a mix of challenging terrain and scenic views. The trails in Squamish cater to riders of all levels, from beginner-friendly routes to technical descents for advanced riders. Squamish is known for its technical trails that challenge even the most experienced riders, with features like steep rock rolls, rooty descents, and tight switchbacks. The coastal rainforest setting provides a lush backdrop for adventurous mountain biking, with trails that wind through towering cedar trees and along granite cliffs. Squamish’s proximity to the Pacific Ocean ensures a moderate climate for year-round riding, making it a popular destination for mountain bikers looking to escape the summer heat or ride in the off-season.
Fruita, Colorado, USA
Fruita is a hidden gem in Colorado, offering a mix of desert landscapes and red rock canyons. The 18 Road Trails and Kokopelli Loops are must-ride trails for mountain biking enthusiasts looking for a unique riding experience. Fruita’s trails are known for their fast and flowy nature, with smooth singletracks that wind through the desert landscape, offering panoramic views of red rock canyons and distant mesas. Riders can expect a mix of technical features, sandy sections, and challenging climbs that test their skills and endurance. Fruita’s mountain biking community has worked hard to develop and maintain the trail systems, ensuring that riders have access to well-marked routes, trailhead facilities, and bike-friendly amenities.
Alpe d’Huez, France
Alpe d’Huez is famous for its challenging climbs and thrilling descents, making it a popular destination for road cyclists and mountain bikers alike. The area offers a variety of trails that showcase the stunning scenery of the French Alps. Alpe d’Huez’s mountain biking trails are set against the backdrop of the iconic Tour de France climb, with routes that cater to all levels of riders. From rocky descents to alpine meadow loops, Alpe d’Huez provides a diverse riding experience that showcases the natural beauty of the region. Riders can enjoy technical challenges, fast descents, and stunning views of glaciers and peaks, all within a short distance of the charming alpine village.
Derby, Tasmania, Australia
Derby is a mountain biking destination known for its purpose-built trails and world-class riding experiences. The Blue Derby Trails are a network of trails that wind through lush forests and offer stunning views of the Tasmanian wilderness. Derby’s trails offer a mix of flowy singletracks, technical descents, and challenging features that cater to riders of all abilities. The network of trails in Derby has been designed to showcase the natural beauty of the Tasmanian wilderness, with routes that wind through ancient forests, past cascading waterfalls, and along dramatic ridgelines. Riders can explore the diverse terrain of Derby, from steep and rocky descents to gentle and scenic loops, all while being immersed in the untouched natural environment of Northeast Tasmania.
Oaxaca, Mexico
Oaxaca is a hidden gem for mountain biking, with a mix of trails that cater to all skill levels. The Sierra Norte mountains offer a rugged terrain and authentic cultural experiences, making Oaxaca a unique and unforgettable destination for riders. Oaxaca’s mountain biking trails provide riders with a taste of traditional Mexican culture, as they wind through remote villages, ancient ruins, and lush valleys. Riders can expect technical descents, rocky terrain, and challenging climbs that showcase the rugged beauty of the Sierra Norte mountains. The mountain biking community in Oaxaca is welcoming and enthusiastic, with local guides and tour operators offering personalized experiences that highlight the best of the region’s natural and cultural attractions.
