Top Mountain Bike Trails in Mammoth Lakes

If you're standing in our shop asking where to ride today, this is usually where I start. Mammoth has trails for every level, from mellow paved paths to steep technical single track, and picking the right one makes or breaks your day. Here are five local favorites, straight from our staff.

Discovery Trail (Easy)

This is where we send anyone new to mountain biking, or families riding with kids. It's part of the Mammoth Mountain Bike Park, with gradual climbs and wide, smooth turns so you can get comfortable on the bike before tackling anything harder. Grab a bike park pass, take the shuttle up, and ease into your day here.

Lakes Basin Path (Easy to Moderate)

This one's a local classic. It starts right in town and runs about five miles south through the forest to the Mammoth Lakes Basin, with a steady 1,000-foot climb along the way. It's paved, so it's great on a road bike, cruiser, or e-bike, and it ends near some of the prettiest lakes and campgrounds in the Eastern Sierra. Just know the ride back into town has more climbing than you'd expect.

Paper Route Loop (Moderate)

This is one of the most-ridden trails on the mountain, and for good reason. It's rolling terrain with firm dirt, quick turns, and a good mix of climbs and descents. It connects easily to other trails if you want to extend your ride, and it's a great test of where your skills are at before heading into more technical terrain.

Mammoth Rock Trail (Moderate)

A single track trail with real character. It winds through the forest with a few punchy climbs and rewards you with big views once you're out of the trees. It's a multi-use trail, so you'll share it with hikers, and it's not open to e-bikes since it's designated non-motorized. Pair it with the Panorama Dome loop if you want more mileage.

Lower Rock Creek Trail (Difficult)

For riders who want a real descent. This one's about 30 minutes from town, and most people ride or shuttle up to the top for a long, technical downhill full of rock gardens and stream crossings. It's not beginner terrain, but it's one of the most rewarding rides in the area if you've got the skills for it.

Velocity / Techno Rock (Expert)

If you're looking for steeper, more technical bike park terrain, this is where things start to get serious. Expect fast downhill riding, rocky sections, tighter lines, and features that require more control and confidence. These trails are best for experienced riders who are comfortable with speed, technical terrain, and committing to their line. Check the Mammoth Bike Park trail map before you go, since upper-mountain access can change throughout the season.

Bullet DH (Expert)

This one is for riders who want a true downhill challenge. Bullet DH brings the speed, rocks, drops, and technical features that advanced riders come to Mammoth for. It is not the trail to test out if you are still building confidence, but if you have the right bike, protective gear, and downhill experience, it is one of the more exciting expert-level options in the park.

Kamikaze / Off the Top (Expert)

A Mammoth classic. This is the kind of ride people talk about after they finish it. Starting from higher on the mountain, this route gives you big views, fast descending, and a more exposed alpine feel. Conditions can change quickly up top, so it is best for strong, experienced riders who are comfortable with loose terrain, speed, and longer descents.

Ready to ride?

Visit Footloose Sports in Mammoth Lakes, and our team will help you get set up for the trail you're heading out to.