Mountain biking offers adventure, challenge, and stunning natural beauty, making it a beloved sport for adrenaline seekers and nature enthusiasts alike. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned rider, there are incredible trails worldwide to explore. Here’s a list of the top 10 mountain biking trails around the globe that promise thrilling descents, breathtaking views, and unforgettable experiences.
1. The Whole Enchilada – Moab, Utah, USA
Moab is famous for its rugged terrain and red rock landscapes, and The Whole Enchilada is one of its premier trails. This 27-mile trail takes riders from alpine forests down to the desert floor, offering varied terrain, technical challenges, and stunning views of Castle Valley.
Highlights:
- Technical sections
- Steep descents
- Scenic views
Best for: Experienced riders seeking technical challenges.
2. Whistler Mountain Bike Park – British Columbia, Canada
Whistler is a dream destination for mountain bikers, offering over 80 miles of trails for all skill levels. The park features expertly designed trails with jumps, berms, and steep downhill sections, making it a paradise for both downhill enthusiasts and freeriders.
Highlights:
- Chairlift access
- Varied trails for all levels
- Iconic A-Line trail with jumps and flow sections
Best for: Riders of all levels, especially downhill enthusiasts.
3. Mefjellet – Fjord Norway
Mountain biking in Norway offers jaw-dropping scenery, and Mefjellet is one of the best trails to experience the beauty of the fjords. The 7-mile trail offers technical descents through alpine meadows and ends with breathtaking views of Norway’s rugged coastline.
Highlights:
- Unique fjord scenery
- Varied technical terrain
- Remote, wild location
Best for: Intermediate to advanced riders.
4. Achnashellach – Scottish Highlands, Scotland
Scotland’s wild landscapes are a perfect backdrop for mountain biking, and Achnashellach is one of the country’s top trails. This 18-mile route takes riders through lush forests, across rocky paths, and offers expansive views of the Highlands.
Highlights:
- Remote and rugged landscapes
- Challenging technical sections
- Varied terrain
Best for: Advanced riders who enjoy challenging, remote routes.
5. 401 Trail – Crested Butte, Colorado, USA
Known for its wildflower-filled meadows and breathtaking alpine views, the 401 Trail in Crested Butte is a must-ride for mountain biking enthusiasts. The 14-mile trail offers fast singletrack, rolling descents, and stunning views of the Elk Mountains.
Highlights:
- Spectacular alpine scenery
- Flowing singletrack
- Moderate technical difficulty
Best for: Intermediate riders.
6. Queenstown Bike Park – New Zealand
Queenstown is renowned for adventure sports, and its mountain bike park is no exception. With over 30 miles of trails, it offers stunning views of Lake Wakatipu and The Remarkables mountain range. The trails cater to all levels, with plenty of flow trails and technical descents.
Highlights:
- Gondola-accessed downhill runs
- Stunning alpine scenery
- Wide variety of trails
Best for: Riders of all levels, from beginners to experts.
7. Finale Ligure – Liguria, Italy
Finale Ligure offers some of the best enduro-style mountain biking in the world. Located along the Mediterranean coast, it combines technical trails with incredible views of the sea. The area boasts a variety of trails, from fast and flowy to rocky and technical.
Highlights:
- Coastal Mediterranean views
- Diverse trails for different skill levels
- Great food and local culture
Best for: Intermediate to advanced riders who enjoy varied terrain.
8. Alps 2 Ocean Cycle Trail – New Zealand
While not a technical singletrack trail, the Alps 2 Ocean offers one of the most scenic and varied long-distance rides in the world. Spanning over 186 miles from Mount Cook to Oamaru, riders can experience diverse landscapes, including alpine lakes, rivers, and coastal plains.
Highlights:
- Diverse and scenic landscapes
- Long-distance ride for bikepacking enthusiasts
- Suitable for all skill levels
Best for: Riders seeking an epic, scenic adventure.
9. Coed y Brenin – Snowdonia, Wales
Wales has become a hub for mountain biking, and Coed y Brenin is one of its best trail centers. Located in Snowdonia National Park, it offers purpose-built singletrack trails for all levels. With fast descents, rocky technical sections, and forested paths, it’s a great place to hone your skills.
Highlights:
- Well-maintained singletrack
- Scenic forest and mountain views
- Trails for all skill levels
Best for: Beginner to intermediate riders looking for varied terrain.
10. Old Ghost Road – New Zealand
A legendary multi-day ride, Old Ghost Road in New Zealand takes riders through remote wilderness, crossing rugged mountain ranges, deep river gorges, and lush rainforest. The 52-mile trail offers technical sections, breathtaking views, and plenty of adventure for seasoned riders.
Highlights:
- Remote, untouched wilderness
- Multi-day adventure
- Challenging technical sections
Best for: Experienced riders looking for a multi-day challenge.
Conclusion
Whether you’re chasing the thrill of technical descents or seeking a scenic long-distance ride, these top 10 mountain biking trails offer a wide range of experiences for riders of all levels. From the red rock landscapes of Utah to the fjords of Norway and the alpine beauty of New Zealand, each of these trails showcases the best that mountain biking has to offer. So gear up, and start planning your next biking adventure!
