Best Mountain Bike Parks in North America
North America is home to some of the best mountain bike parks in the world, each offering unique terrain, scenic landscapes, and trails for riders of all skill levels. From high-speed downhill runs to flowy singletrack and technical rock gardens.
Top Mountain Bike Parks
Whistler Mountain Bike Park – British Columbia, Canada
One of the largest and most iconic mountain bike parks in the world.
Offers over 1,500 meters (5,000 feet) of vertical descent, with meticulously maintained trails.
Features terrain for all skill levels, from beginner-friendly green trails to expert-only double black diamond descents.
Home to world-renowned trails such as A-Line, Dirt Merchant, and Crank It Up.
Hosts the annual Crankworx festival, attracting top riders from around the globe.
Best For: Downhill riders and freeriders seeking world-class trails and bike park experience. https://www.mountainbikingbc.ca/vancouver-coast-mountains/whistler-bike-park
Mammoth Mountain Bike Park – California, USA
Over 80 miles of trails, ranging from scenic cross-country rides to technical downhill runs.
Features unique volcanic pumice terrain, providing a fast and flowy riding experience.
High-altitude riding (up to 11,000 feet), offering breathtaking views of the Eastern Sierra mountains.
Lift-assisted trails, including iconic runs like Kamikaze and Velocity.
Best For: Riders who enjoy high-altitude riding with a mix of technical and flowy terrain. https://www.mammothmountain.com/things-to-do/activities/bike-park
Mt. Bachelor Bike Park – Oregon, USA
Offers over 20 miles of lift-served downhill trails with a variety of difficulty levels.
Known for its high-speed, flowy trails with well-built berms and jumps.
Stunning views of the Cascade Mountain Range make for a scenic ride.
Features progressive trails for beginners and challenging technical lines for experienced riders.
Best For: Riders seeking a mix of speed and flow in a scenic alpine setting.
Keystone Bike Park – Colorado, USA
Sprawling 3,000-acre park with a diverse range of lift-access trails.
Well-maintained terrain parks featuring rock gardens, wooden features, and big jumps.
Thrilling downhill runs with breathtaking views of the Rocky Mountains.
Signature trails like Paid in Full and Cowboy Up offer a mix of technical and fast-flowing descents.
Best For: Riders looking for technical descents with challenging features.
Angel Fire Bike Park – New Mexico, USA
Offers over 60 miles of lift-served trails, from beginner flow trails to expert jump lines.
Renowned for its steep and fast terrain, with long descents and technical sections.
Provides breathtaking views of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains.
Hosts national and international downhill racing events.
Best For: Advanced riders looking for high-speed, technical trails in a stunning mountain setting.
Best Multi-Day Mountain Bike Rides in North America
For riders seeking extended adventures, multi-day bikepacking, and backcountry routes offer a unique challenge and an opportunity to experience the diverse landscapes of North America. Here are some of the top multi-day rides:
Colorado Trail – Colorado, USA
Distance: 500 miles
Traverses the breathtaking Rocky Mountains from Denver to Durango.
Mix of rugged singletrack, alpine tundra, and forested sections.
Riders experience remote wilderness with challenging climbs and rewarding descents.
Best For: Experienced bikepackers who enjoy high-altitude adventure rides.
Great Divide Mountain Bike Route – Canada & USA
Distance: 2,740 miles
The longest off-pavement route in the world, stretching from Banff, Alberta to Antelope Wells, New Mexico.
Crosses the Continental Divide multiple times, offering epic scenery and a true endurance challenge.
A mix of forest roads, dirt trails, and occasional paved sections.
Best For: Endurance riders looking for a once-in-a-lifetime bikepacking adventure.
Kokopelli Trail – Colorado & Utah, USA
Distance: 140 miles
Connects Fruita, Colorado, to Moab, Utah, through the stunning red rock desert landscapes of the Colorado Plateau.
Combines rugged jeep roads, technical singletrack, and epic canyon views.
Remote and challenging terrain with limited water sources—proper planning required.
Best For: Riders looking for a mix of technical desert riding and remote wilderness. https://www.mtbproject.com/trail/221567/kokopelli-trail
Tahoe Rim Trail – California & Nevada, USA
Distance: 165 miles
Circles the iconic Lake Tahoe, offering stunning alpine views.
Diverse terrain includes forested singletrack, rocky descents, and flowy sections.
Some sections require permits, and certain areas are hike-a-bike.
Best For: Riders looking for a challenging alpine adventure with epic scenery.
Lost Coast Trail – California, USA
Distance: 25 miles
Follows California’s rugged Pacific coastline, offering dramatic ocean views and challenging terrain.
Features technical descents, sandy beaches, and remote wilderness.
Tidal planning is essential, as some sections are only passable during low tide.
Best For: Riders seeking a unique coastal adventure with challenging conditions.
Additional Recommendations
Moab, Utah: known for its world-famous slickrock trails and iconic red rock landscapes.
Sedona, Arizona: offers breathtaking desert scenery and technical red rock trails.
Kingdom Trails, Vermont: a top East Coast destination with a network of well-maintained singletrack.
Tips for Planning Your Next Ride
Research Trail Conditions: Check weather, trail reports, and seasonal closures before planning your trip.
Gear Up Properly: Ensure you have the right bike, protective gear, and repair kits for remote rides.
Hydration & Nutrition: Carry enough water and energy-rich food to sustain you through long rides.
Know Your Limits: Choose trails that match your skill and fitness level to ensure an enjoyable experience.
Safety First: Always inform someone of your route and carry a GPS or map in case of emergencies.
North America offers an incredible variety of mountain biking destinations, from world-renowned bike parks to epic multi-day adventures. Whether you're looking for fast-flow trails, technical descents, or backcountry exploration, there's a perfect ride waiting for you. So gear up, hit the trails, and ride on!
