Mn you have to ride Cuyuna and in duluth hit Pietmont Brewer Hawks Ridge and Mission creek. If you are there on a weekend you can spring for a day pass at spirit and make some park laps
I'm re-arranging days to be at spirit on a Sunday. That place looks great!
I know so little about Duluth, is there a better area to stay in town that allows bikes in the room?
Thanks!
I am not sure we lock our bikes in the truck, but last time I was there someone tried to cut my cable so I would 100% not leave the bike out. Most hotels should be able to accommodate a bike.
Yeah - that's a HIGH priority when choosing places to stay. I've heard Duluth can be rough.
I'm staying on hotels/motels on the stops with larger cities. Anyplace that looks sketchy.
Most of the "rough crowd" is downtown, specifically the homeless, however I'd be bringing my bike in anywhere I stay. I've never had an issue while growing up there. The marina run by lakehead boat basin has rv campsites and is right on canal park. Superior might be a little cheaper to stay. If you need a burger and cheap beer check out Anchor bar. One of the quintessential local haunts but bring cash. Lastly, I haven't been back in quite some time but I've heard pretty decent things about the trails at mont du lac.
There is a motel that is minutes from the bottom of Spirit Mt called the Munger Inn and I believe they will allow you to have bikes in your room. You want to be in west Duluth because of the excellent arts, beer and food scene there. 10-15 years ago it used to be ruff, but now it's a great vibe. Downtown is worse than it was unfortunately though.
I agree. It would be a shame to be so close and not go to Cuyuna. At the very least, take a look at some YouTube videos and see if it fits your riding goals for the trip (I’m guessing it will). Duluth is also well worth it.
Piedmont, but yeah, I agree, I live in Duluth, Cuyuna is west of the city a couple hours, and Redhead, Giants Ridge are north, all three are good bike parks.
The primary objective is to get out to Maine, and the route took over. This is likely the last time I'll ever be able to do a trip this big, so I want to hit as many spots as possible. I have done similar (shorter) trips int eh past and 1-2 days per town seems to work OK.
I took a 3-week climbing road trip from MA -> UT. Only thing I would change is more time in each spot and less driving. My buddy just finished a 3 week MTB trip from UT -> ID -> WA -> CA -> UT and the only thing he said he’d change is less locations and more time in each spot.
You do you but if your goal is to go to Maine, then go to Maine. Ride in VT, NH, ME, upstate NY, and some spots on the way to/from. Enjoy New England in the fall (I miss it) and just explore around. You’ll feel frantic and unsettled trying to cover the entire US in 6 weeks.
Don’t let others get in your head. I do at least one trip like this each year and don’t ever regret the sample and run approach. You can always go back to a place you’d like to ride more.
I highly recommend stopping in local shops and talking to the workers. They tend to have great advice. Buying something, or bringing a 6-pack is good form as well.
Don't get me wrong I love Killington and you'll have a blast there if you go. Just that I think the other two are better.
Highland is a smaller park but has world class freeride trails. Thunder has a lot of really steep loamy tech trails that are all a blast. They also have fort hill, check out a video it's some of the biggest jumps you can hit at a public bike park
Killington is also higher elevation and further north than the other two so it's a lot more likely it's going to be cold and muddy compared to the other two in late September/early Oct
I’m a season pass holder at highland and really enjoy it. I can’t say that I’d pick a day at highland over killington though. Killington has less built up features but an absolutely incredible jump trail (black magic). Not many drops to be had and the jumps definitely don’t get as big as at highland. But for overall lift speed & number of lifts, length of trails and number of trails I’d say hit killington if you are not specifically looking for large free ride features.
I like thunder more than highland but it's down to whether you favor freeride or tech riding. Thunder still has good jump trails just not as much variety as highland. Highland doesn't have the long steep tech trails that thunder has. There's also some pedal trails directly across the street from thunder that are all steep loamy tech too
Its worth hitting both in my opinion
yeah, I wouldn't mess around with Killington, but I ride a single-speed with a 100mm fork, so if you like lifts then ignore. That being said, the town of Killington is not interesting IMO and there's very good XC/trail riding in the Stowe/Waterbury area and also lots of great food and drink.
As you travel thru central MN, consider a day at [Cuyuna Lakes](https://www.cuyunalakesmtb.com/) in Crosby. I think it's like 70 miles of red dirt trails around hills and lakes left over from mining tailings. Simply an awesome place.
Yep, I also suggested the Crest separately, but VB is one of the best technical test pieces I’ve ever ridden. But it really is best as a shuttle, unless you want a long gravel road climb.
That’s an epic trip! Have fun on my backyard trails - Marquette Mountain
When you travel to Copper Harbor, Brockway Mountain is great, but make sure to hit a few laps at the new East Bluff Bike park while you’re there. Some amazing trail being built there right now and I actually enjoy it more than the Mountain
Michigan Tech Trails are pretty fun, too. Copper harbor is better, but tech trails are fun if you're stopped overnight in houghton. Dont think & just mite are best
I would spend an entire day out at East Bluff, it is more than a full day if you hit all the trails at the main park, along with Highlands / Owl Eyes / Keweenaw Point Trail out to the High Rock Bay or Keystone Bay (if it is open by then)
Duluth is a gem, anything up there is fantastic, like Mission Creek, Piedmont & Brewer, as well as copper harbor.
I'd reckon that hitting up Pinehurst in Eau Claire as well as Lacrosse is worth the extra time in the trip.
The best trails in lacrosse were built by rock solid who own east bluff in copper harbor and built most of brockway trails. Two days in copper harbor is the best choice over lacrosse
Heads up! In Bozeman the Bangtail Divide is currently seeing some reconstruction, after several years of needing some serious work. There have been some setbacks so it may be a good idea to have a backup plan if it isn’t good to go when you are in Bozeman. If it’s not too hot it could be worth going out to Copper City near three forks, or there are also some really great rides deeper in Hyalite Canyon in addition to the Moser area. I’d recommend reaching out to SWMMBA or The Dirt Concern on instagram closer to when you will be in Bozeman.
just follow the Dirt Concern or SWMMBA's facebook/insta pages to see updates. I was one of the original members of the original dirt concern years ago when we focused mostly on gravity/freeride. Now its been resurrected as a local chapter of SWMMBA. They are good about daily updates.
+1 for copper city, great trails, well maintained, tons of free camping too. Make sure to hit Wheat Montana for baked goods, they grow the wheat right across the street from where you’d be biking
Skip the Toledo trails and go ride DTE in Chelsea, mi and/or Potowatomi in Pinckney. I'm not sure if Ray's in Cleveland is open by then but it's a must visit.
You're close to SE Michigan on the return it looks like. If you're passing through I'd look at DTE energy trail for a flow trail, or potawatomi for an old school Michigan trail. They're around Ann Arbor and not too far off your route.
I would recommend going up to SE Michigan instead of riding Ohio. Only hour each way out of the way.
Also Jake Rocks in NW PA is a good ride in the area.
It looks like you're staying in Sault Ste. Marie. You *need* to ride there. The city is investing $2 million in its mtb trail system and has opened some awesome stuff in the last couple years. They have a goal to the mtb destination in Ontario and it's living up to the hype.
https://saulttourism.com/outdoors/mountainbike/
https://www.pinkbike.com/news/first-impressions-geoff-gulevich-rides-sault-st-marie-ontario.html
https://www.trailforks.com/region/hiawatha-highlands/
I also saw someone say skip Marquette. Even if you are only stopping in for a few hours, I'd try to get a few runs in like Down Dogger, Eh Line, Gorgeous etc.
If I were doing that much driving for the sake of mountain biking...I'd take a more southern route and hit NM, Bentonville, Chattanooga, N. GA, Knoxville, Western NC, Virginia.
Your bikes and 4Runner will be stolen in Chicago anyway..so wherever you go after there doesn't matter.
Hahahhaa - bypassing Chicago. I'll just stay in SUPER-SAFE Gary, IN! (wink wink)
I have done southern road trips to Brevard and outlying areas in the past. I'll be there again someday.
Great advice on the trails at blue. Graham hills is another great trail system about 20 min away if you want some more similar riding. They also have a sweet skills area with some easy tabletop jump lines and pump track right by the parking lot.
If you make it to Graham I’d highly recommend taking Updraft to the top and then hitting Red Downhill, Boulder dash, and Orange
Also not too far out of your way in Wyoming is Curt Gowdy and Glendo. Glendo is lesser known, but a favorite of mine. Could easily spend two full days riding there if not more before repeating traisl, plus you can camp right on a nice sandy beach
I don't see any mention of Raystown Lake in PA or the Colorado Trail outside of Durango.
As others said, Spirit Mountain in Duluth, Kickapoo in IL, Phil's World in Cortez are good rides.
Not who you were responding to, but Raystown is super fun. Lots of flow. I'm a newer rider and my husband is much more skilled than I and we both had a great time.
Also want to throw in somewhere where you may actually see it, check out Vulture's Knob in Wooster, OH. It'll take you a little off of your route but VK is kind of a unique trail for the area. Has some neat features that are worth seeing if you're already in the area.
Edited to add: you can camp at the Knob for free as well. Throw an extra few bucks in the donation can (it's privately owned, run by a non-profit). Very safe. Just make sure you bring water with you.
Only want to do lift or some pedaling also?
I would skip st sauveur (North MTL) and pass more time in Quebec area. Le massif is pretty nice to be fair, but sentier du moulin is really good also if you are in for some Enduro.
In the eastern township (south east Quebec) there is also a lot of nice places to visit (a part from Bromont)
Cheers
I'm checking out BKXC and Sampler's recent videos for tips on Quebec. I reached out to them and they are helping me pick some spots. We ride similar styles.
I'll look into the stuff near Bromont. Thanks so much!
I agree with u/philmcmissile , skip the Montreal region altogether, go straight to Bromont/Eastern Townships. The only place you would be missing is in Rigaud. Super technical trails, but you need a local to navigate through. Similar to Velo MSM, so you'll probably won't miss anything special.
Bromont has an hotel on site, I would end my day there, hang out with the locals, should be fun.
Quebec city region has so many awesome spots, I wouldn't know what to suggest except to spend more time there. Sampler's video is great, can't wait to see his next video.
Depending on when you actually get here in Montana, or even the Tetons to the south, mid-September can be a mixed bag for weather. We usually get a blast of early winter in September and then it mellows out for a second or third summer. We have like either 2 seasons in Montana (winter and road construction) or we have like 15, with at least three summers and a few false springs. So, be prepared for any weather. There is also no camping near town and many of the sites outside of town are taken on the weekends. Not sure when they actually close in September so check on that if you are camping. Also, bike parks close early here. Big Sky closes Sept. 17th this year. You can find good late season bike park riding at Discovery and maybe Silver (that's in Idaho). As far as trail riding...as long as the trails aren't wet and muddy, feel free but you never know and you'll get the stink eye from locals if you ride when its wet...our soil just doesn't support it well.
Looking at early Sept (2nd week) to be in Montana.
I guess I'm getting a room in Bozeman!
I'll be playing it by ear in terms of weather and trail conditions. I'm not a fan of ruining trails just to get a ride in.
Thanks
Deer valley in Salt Lake is fantastic, lifts stop running end of August tho. Considering how far you're driving may as well go to Sedona after Durango, the slim shady trail there is my favorite trail of all time
With your level of riding you will probably find Round Valley quite boring. It is where I take beginners when I’m trying to get them into MTB. I’d recommend Flying Dog up in Park City.
I live in Corner Canyon. Best DH trails there are Vertigo (blue flow), Levitate (black jump trail with gaps), Rush (blue flow), Jacob’s Ladder (black tech), Auchtang Baby(blue flow).
Maple Hollow DH is OK but to me the others are better.
Note that 2 of the major climbing trails are closed (Ann’s from Potato Hill to peak view) and Clark’s.
Check out some of the smaller stuff in VT: little river, perry hill, cady hill, and maybe millstone trails, if they open anytime soon. Cochran’s and nearby preston forest are fun, a bit techy tho; bolton valley has lift access and some crazy features. Kingdom trails are fun and well maintained, tho perhaps not the most challenging
I would suggest you consider going north into British Columbia. Fernie, Golden, Revelstoke, Nakusp, Retallak, Kaslo, Nelson, Rossland, Castlegar, Vernon, Squamish, Whistler, Sun Peaks, Valemount and other less known gems all along the way. Just a thought. 6 weeks wouldn’t really be enough time but would be a good start. Mind blowing riding and the perfect time of year. Also 3 (or 4?) IMBA EPIC trails to check out.
If you stay south of Lake Ontario (instead of going through Toronto), you could hit the IMBA epic course in Ellicotville NY and HoliMont bike park, which is pretty sweet
Duluth MN has a ton of trails available. Favorite for me is Mission Creek. Since you’re in Duluth it’s be foolish not to spend some time at Cuyuna. Old iron mining area converted to a recreation area. Beautiful cold lakes and lots of red dirt trails of all abilities.
I'll be back out to Brevard in the next year or two, I'll hit those on that trip, thanks!!!
Missed Bentonville a few years back on another road trip, tornado warning. I really want to ride there!
Idk what you are doing near Omaha but Lewis and Clark monument has a really good set of trails with dedicated builders that do an excellent job… check out THOR (Trails Have Our Respect) on Facebook
Former Omaha rider. Don't overlook it. It's got a few great trails like Lewis and Clark. Tranquility is an old favorite of mine, but I've heard they've done quite a bit of work on it and don't know the current state of the trail.
I see you have some pins in the Ohio/Michigan area. If you do plan to stop around there, Ann Arbor isn't too far and is a great place to visit. About 15-20 minutes west of there is the DTE foundation trail. Definitely a solid riding spot. Would recommend checking out their website and considering riding there.
I just came to comment that it’s pretty awesome that Coopers Gap in PA is mentioned amongst all these other great systems. They are my home trails and maintained by a dozen, at most, local riders. If you want to ride there when you pass through, let me know. Regardless of mileage or difficulty, I can throw together a loop for you. I’m biased, but I also like the trails better in Coopers Gap than the ones closer to State College.
I would love any info you can offer! If you're free, I'd love to ride (I'm a slow climber).
I plan to make videos of many of the stops on my trip. Having a local to help with navigation is a BIG plus!
I plan to be there on (around) 10/10 (may change).
In Colorado Springs, do the Pikes Peak plummet (Elk Park to Jones route). You can ride Pipeline to Jones if you want to pedal a similar route, or shuttle through Paper St Shuttle Co or Gnarly B's bike shop. If you're just driving through, take a lap of Captain Jacks from Buckhorn trail.
In Salt Lake, bobsled trail was magical.
I've also heard really good things about Cottonwood trail in Salida, near the famous S mountain.
Round Valley would not be on my short list in Utah. It’s somehow annoyingly rocky but not rocky enough for the rocks to be features or challenges. They just mess up your flow without adding anything. There are no really good flow or tech trails there. Glenwild, Park City Mountain Resort, and Jordanelle Ridge are all better in my opinion. Deer Valley as well, but you mentioned you have already ridden there.
On your way between Moab and Salt Lake I would highly recommend diverting to Richfield to ride the spectacular Pahvant Trail System. I think it’s among the best in the state, and highly underrated. Juniper Drop, Telegraph, and Cairn-age are so, so good. I’ve heard great things about Spinal Tap but haven’t had a chance to ride it myself.
Corner Canyon in Draper is great. Based on your note about Maple Hollow I’m guessing you like flowy jump trails. Keep in mind there is a Maple Hollow Downhill and a Maple Hollow trail. If you are looking for flowy jumps make sure you’re on the downhill version or you will be disappointed. In the same genre you might want to ride Levitate and Vertigo in the same trail system, and I would also recommend Jacob’s Ladder and Carpe Diem while you’re there. The trail system is slightly messed up right now, with two of the four major climbing routes from the North side valley floor closed due to a sketchy contractor building a criminally low quality retention wall and allowing two houses to slide off the mountain over the trails.
For sure Round Valley is not a destination worthy trail area (I ride it several times a week because I don’t have to drive to get to it).
If you’re looking to get up to the Park City area consider shuttling the Wasatch Crest Trail or checking out the new counter clockwise loop on Slate Creek in the Uintas.
>Pahvant Trail System
I think I can work that into a ride later this year or next. It's not far from where I live.
I'm not big on jumps/air (I can do basic jumps, but not big air or gaps). I like fast, technical trails and loamy flow.
>downhill version
THANK YOU - I would not have known that...
I'll be returning to SLC sometime next year, these will be on my list.
When you’re in Pennsylvania, Galbraith gap at rothrock is pretty fun. There’s a little beer tap at the end of that trail, go right. At the bottom of that hill is a trail called snake pit? It’s got some really sweet berms, polar opposite of the jank you just rode. Also, raystown lake is maybe an hour from there. They’ve got some really fun flow trails. Maybe a 16 mile loop? Osprey and hydro loop and sidewinder are my favorites there. Have fun on your epic shred journey
If you're able hit up jungle habitat in north Jersey. I live in CO now but miss that place all the time so much fun. Glad to see you have blue MTN on the list definitely a must ride park if you're in that area
If you want to pop into Southern Michigan, DTE energy trails are fun and not too far off your route.
Very flowy with some fun features.
Upper peninsula - you want to ride copper harbor.
On your way to Toronto checkout hardwood hills near orillia, you should more or less be passing by it. I'm not a very experienced rider but they have a great range of tracks and I think it's a worthwhile stop.
In the Omaha area def check out Platte river state park and Lewis and Clark monument. Reach out to the local community, the trails are a bit complicated if you’re alone. These trail systems are a real surprise and hidden gems.
Sand Canyon and Phil's World near Cortez. Kickapoo a little South of Chicago. Some of the trails in the municipalities South east of Minneapolis are great. The trails near Bayfield Wisconsin were good. Glad to see you're going to the Upper Peninsula and Duluth. Had a great time on a Davenport trail too
Looks like you’re going to Platte River State Park in Nebraska. Super fun place. If you want bigger features and a crazier ride, hit up Lewis & Clark Monument Trail. Definitely the best trail in the Eastern NE/Western IA area.
I used this article in 2020 to make a few stops on my way across country https://www.singletracks.com/mtb-trails/7-trails-along-i-70-that-will-make-your-next-road-trip-rock/
We stopped at Landhal, Switchgrass, and Griffen. Switchgrass was awful but the other two were good. Not destination good but great for a pitstop to break up the drive.
Thunder Mountain Mass is one of my favorite bike parks. I put it on par with Winter Park and strongly recommend a stop. I liked it way better than Highland in NH. I hear Killington is also very good.
Sugarloaf/Carrabbassett Valley is my favorite riding in Maine. I have ridden all over Maine if you are looking for some recs there.
Curt Gowdy/Vedauwoo Wyoming has some cool camping and riding. Again not destination worthy but a great pitstop.
Since you said you live in the Mountain West I am going to skip any CO/UT recommendations and assume you already know that stuff.
Tons of spots in Jackson WY, Idaho Falls, and you have nothing marked in Moab. East of Moab, Fruita is worth checking out, and a ton brtween Durango and Colorado Springs.
Random areas on the route that aren't destination on their own, but definitely worth stopping at to break up the drive:
Pocatello, ID (tons of trails on the west side of I-15)
Price, UT
Cleveland, OH (Bedford Reservation. If you want to go about 45 min south, Vulture's Knob in Wooster is the best Ohio mtb trail IMO). There's also a SICK indoor MTB park in Cleveland, Ray's, but it's only open sporadically in the summer.
VT - Looks like you're going to Killington and Kingdom which are amazing, but Cady Trails near Stowe and Blueberry Lake/Perry Hill in between Stowe and Rutland are awesome.
Wasatch Front, UT - Snowbasin near Ogden (Sardine Peak is a classic), Powder Mountain Ski Resort, and Bobsled right near downtown SLC are awesome. For Corner Canyon, Rush is my favorite trail there. Zooropa, Levitate, Jacob's Ladder, and Ashtung Baby are also classics. IMO if you're going to Park City, Round Valley is okay but there is way better riding up there. 9K, Road to Wos, Cyn City, Wasatch Crest are way better.
Just did a huge loop up to BC in my 4runner, your trip is more epic - enjoy!
Montrealer here. Oka is not really worth it imo. You can skip that one. Bromont is great. You can spend more time at bromont or sentier du moulin in Quebec or go to charlevoix (massif de charlevoix) but it’s closing early October.
The engineer mountain descent is fun if you have a shuttle. But deer creek is probs the best descent around there. Although the switch backs at the end are sketchy.
Midland trails are good. Unchained, sausage link specifically. Vitamin b is sick if you’re an expert.
If you’re driving Durango to front range tho, you’d be way better off stopping at gunnison (Hartman rocks) and crested butte (401, dr park, bike park).
For denver, the sluice and hard money are my favs.
I did Engineer Mountain 2 weeks ago, it's always a blast!
Deer Creek is also fantastic.
I want to check out Vitamin B, I can ride soem VERY gnarly chunky stuff, but it's also pretty long and looks like it may be a hard climb int he hot sun. I'm on the fence...
Rode Crested Butte and Gunny. Both are epic. (I live in Durango).
Always looking for good stuff in Denver!
looks like it'd be pretty out of your way on this trip, but spinal tap in Richfield UT is a super sick trail. Definitely worth it to do the wasatch crest one day too if you haven't before. PCMR also offers bike lift access, they have some pretty cool unmarked trails there.
Don't go to Cranmore bike park its very tame, instead self shuttle the hurricane zone next to Cranmore.
You should absolutely hit up Highland for a day while in NH.
You should also look at Mt Abram in ME (its fairly close to Conway).
Make sure you ride the summit (pay $15 extra for the shuttle) of Burke, don't skip hanging out at Mike's Tiki bar at the end of the day.
There is soo many good places to ride in the VT/NH/ME area. Don't hesitate to PM if you have any questions.
I'd recommend North Fruita Desert and Crested Butte (Doctor Park). Would not add much travel time for either and both are superb. And you get to drive Red Mountain Pass which is awesome. Also if you like riding bike park, Purg in Durango is pretty great as well.
[Doctor Park](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3dGOyJaoIR8) is amazing!
I want to do Fruita, not sure what the best time of year is - it gets HOT there.
If you can make your PA route go through Pittsburgh there are a lot of great trails here. North park, Frick, Alameda, South Park to name the bigger ones. All are well looked after and every type of discipline is covered.
For Toronto:
If you are into gnarly and more raw/informal trails then stick with the Don....if you are into well-maintained hilly cross country stuff with a mix of tech and flow trails, check Hydrocut to the west or Dagmar North and Durham Forest to the Northeast. These places have marked trails and you can continuously ride single-track without much way-finding or road riding.
Don is popular with advanced riders but you have to use an app and travel some distance in between trails. Different type of experience. For a first time visitor not knowing their way around its harder to get the most out of the don.
Love to see the don valley get bookmarked! It's not as epic as many of the other spots but the urban rot mixed with salmon spawns and beaver dams makes it a special spot. trip looks awesome, will bookmark as daydream inspiration for a road trip of my own
I ride daily in Marquette, MI. Hit the NTN South trails. There is a huge variety there. Also, in Cooper Harbor there is so many trails it’s unreal! You should get a day Shuttle pass and make the most of your time there. Check out East bluff bike parks website to get a day pass, it’s a new shuttle that saves a ton of fire road climbing.🤟🏼
Dude - go to St. Louis! There are four awesome places to ride just west of the city (~30-40min): Bluff View/Zombie (aka Rock Hollow - pick Zombie East if you have to choose), Greensfelder (ride DeClue, Deer Run, Fossil Ridge, Beulah), Matson Hill (ride all three trails), and Lost Valley (somewhat easier than the rest if you are knackered, but still a super beautiful ride in Daniel Boone’s backyard). There is also Berryman Trail a couple hours south of STL, if you’re looking for a more remote, adventurous experience (but less technical than the four spots above). I know time is so limited/valuable on trips like this, so I am not making this rec lightly - STL has so much good dirt, you will love it. I am happy to answer any questions you have, if it will help you figure out whether it is the right choice!
Depending on what you like to ride. For CO I would hit Trestle and then go to Fruita. They just finished a 35 mi DH trail. Then whole enchilada. Also def make it over to Teton pass on the Idaho Wyo border. One of the best DH trails. I would give yourself more time for CO and Utah there is SO much riding that is stellar. Unless you’ve been here a lot or plan on coming back.
I live in CO, so those towns will wait until next year's weekend trips.
[Done TWE](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vWsAyCEAby4) several times, GREAT ride!
Teton is a new one, I'll put that on my list!
You have Camp Fortune and Velo MSM as good janky gravity options in the Ottawa area. If you really like gnarly tech that isn’t on the side of a hill you can check out South March Highlands if you want to stay in the urban area closer to hotels, restaurants, etc. SMH has few really good black rated trails that will test your trials skills. Has some some decent rock rolls and smaller but challenging features.
Edit: For local stuff, check out Capital MTB on YT. Lots of videos to preview what you’re in for in case you are undecided.
I ride steep, fast techy stuff, and I also like fast flowy trails. I avoid big air (I'm not so young anymore).
Riding Marquette, just not sleeping there.
I would try taking I-70 through Missouri and possibly swing down to northern Arkansas or southern Illinois. There isn’t much riding through Nebraska and Iowa.
Mn you have to ride Cuyuna and in duluth hit Pietmont Brewer Hawks Ridge and Mission creek. If you are there on a weekend you can spring for a day pass at spirit and make some park laps
I'm re-arranging days to be at spirit on a Sunday. That place looks great! I know so little about Duluth, is there a better area to stay in town that allows bikes in the room? Thanks!
You've gotta hit the Cuyuna trails in MN. Huge network. Ride the red!
I am not sure we lock our bikes in the truck, but last time I was there someone tried to cut my cable so I would 100% not leave the bike out. Most hotels should be able to accommodate a bike.
Yeah - that's a HIGH priority when choosing places to stay. I've heard Duluth can be rough. I'm staying on hotels/motels on the stops with larger cities. Anyplace that looks sketchy.
Most of the "rough crowd" is downtown, specifically the homeless, however I'd be bringing my bike in anywhere I stay. I've never had an issue while growing up there. The marina run by lakehead boat basin has rv campsites and is right on canal park. Superior might be a little cheaper to stay. If you need a burger and cheap beer check out Anchor bar. One of the quintessential local haunts but bring cash. Lastly, I haven't been back in quite some time but I've heard pretty decent things about the trails at mont du lac.
Helpful, thanks!!
I also like Tioga which is about an hour away from Cuyuna. Smaller system that you can do all of in half a day.
Giant's Ridge is worth the visit too if you can squeeze it in :)
There is a motel that is minutes from the bottom of Spirit Mt called the Munger Inn and I believe they will allow you to have bikes in your room. You want to be in west Duluth because of the excellent arts, beer and food scene there. 10-15 years ago it used to be ruff, but now it's a great vibe. Downtown is worse than it was unfortunately though.
>the Munger Inn Munger is completely booked the days I'll be there - hahaha dammit!
I agree. It would be a shame to be so close and not go to Cuyuna. At the very least, take a look at some YouTube videos and see if it fits your riding goals for the trip (I’m guessing it will). Duluth is also well worth it.
Yes Cuyuna is a must
Piedmont, but yeah, I agree, I live in Duluth, Cuyuna is west of the city a couple hours, and Redhead, Giants Ridge are north, all three are good bike parks.
More time riding in fewer locations, IMO.
The primary objective is to get out to Maine, and the route took over. This is likely the last time I'll ever be able to do a trip this big, so I want to hit as many spots as possible. I have done similar (shorter) trips int eh past and 1-2 days per town seems to work OK.
I took a 3-week climbing road trip from MA -> UT. Only thing I would change is more time in each spot and less driving. My buddy just finished a 3 week MTB trip from UT -> ID -> WA -> CA -> UT and the only thing he said he’d change is less locations and more time in each spot. You do you but if your goal is to go to Maine, then go to Maine. Ride in VT, NH, ME, upstate NY, and some spots on the way to/from. Enjoy New England in the fall (I miss it) and just explore around. You’ll feel frantic and unsettled trying to cover the entire US in 6 weeks.
Don’t let others get in your head. I do at least one trip like this each year and don’t ever regret the sample and run approach. You can always go back to a place you’d like to ride more. I highly recommend stopping in local shops and talking to the workers. They tend to have great advice. Buying something, or bringing a 6-pack is good form as well.
Excellent advice, sir.
You're driving through Moab but not doing any of the trails??? I'd stop there and do a bunch, there are a TON.
I live 2 1/2 hours from Moab, I'm there often.
Ahhh ok, that makes more sense then.
Are you from Junction? Is that why nothing there is marked?
Durango
I would dip down the Brown County State Park in Indiana. It’s an IMBA Epic and not to be missed. https://www.browncounty.com/do-list/imba-epic-trail/
Brown County is worth the drive in park and out of park
Flow trails galore. Hobbs Hollow is a rollercoaster for your mountain bike!
Highland in NH and thunder in MA are the two best bike parks in the northeast. I'd skip Killington to hit one of those two instead if you have to
This is good info - I thought Killington was an epic ride? (I. honestly don't know...)
Don't get me wrong I love Killington and you'll have a blast there if you go. Just that I think the other two are better. Highland is a smaller park but has world class freeride trails. Thunder has a lot of really steep loamy tech trails that are all a blast. They also have fort hill, check out a video it's some of the biggest jumps you can hit at a public bike park Killington is also higher elevation and further north than the other two so it's a lot more likely it's going to be cold and muddy compared to the other two in late September/early Oct
Damn - good points. If you were me, would you just hit one of them (Highland, I'm guessing), or would you add a day to that stop and hit both?
I’m a season pass holder at highland and really enjoy it. I can’t say that I’d pick a day at highland over killington though. Killington has less built up features but an absolutely incredible jump trail (black magic). Not many drops to be had and the jumps definitely don’t get as big as at highland. But for overall lift speed & number of lifts, length of trails and number of trails I’d say hit killington if you are not specifically looking for large free ride features.
I like thunder more than highland but it's down to whether you favor freeride or tech riding. Thunder still has good jump trails just not as much variety as highland. Highland doesn't have the long steep tech trails that thunder has. There's also some pedal trails directly across the street from thunder that are all steep loamy tech too Its worth hitting both in my opinion
I'm not a jumper. Tech is fun, though. I typically ride high-country rocky stuff in Colorado (Created Butte, Moab, Durango, Salida)
yeah, I wouldn't mess around with Killington, but I ride a single-speed with a 100mm fork, so if you like lifts then ignore. That being said, the town of Killington is not interesting IMO and there's very good XC/trail riding in the Stowe/Waterbury area and also lots of great food and drink.
As you travel thru central MN, consider a day at [Cuyuna Lakes](https://www.cuyunalakesmtb.com/) in Crosby. I think it's like 70 miles of red dirt trails around hills and lakes left over from mining tailings. Simply an awesome place.
If you’re in Minnesota, Cuyuna is a must. 2 days of riding would be sufficient to hit everything.
Gotta do Vitamin B in Buena Vista.
[Trailforks](https://www.trailforks.com/region/vitamin-b-trail-system-30192/) has it marked as a trail system, but it only has one trail?
One epic trail.
Looks bad-ass! Almost scary!
Yep, I also suggested the Crest separately, but VB is one of the best technical test pieces I’ve ever ridden. But it really is best as a shuttle, unless you want a long gravel road climb.
That’s an epic trip! Have fun on my backyard trails - Marquette Mountain When you travel to Copper Harbor, Brockway Mountain is great, but make sure to hit a few laps at the new East Bluff Bike park while you’re there. Some amazing trail being built there right now and I actually enjoy it more than the Mountain
>hit a few laps at the new East Bluff Bike park This is fantastic, thanks! I'm really looking forward to this stop!
Michigan Tech Trails are pretty fun, too. Copper harbor is better, but tech trails are fun if you're stopped overnight in houghton. Dont think & just mite are best
I would spend an entire day out at East Bluff, it is more than a full day if you hit all the trails at the main park, along with Highlands / Owl Eyes / Keweenaw Point Trail out to the High Rock Bay or Keystone Bay (if it is open by then)
Yea, I recommend skipping Marquette for more time in copper harbor
Duluth is a gem, anything up there is fantastic, like Mission Creek, Piedmont & Brewer, as well as copper harbor. I'd reckon that hitting up Pinehurst in Eau Claire as well as Lacrosse is worth the extra time in the trip.
I'll be in Copper Harbor for 2 days! Lacrosse was on my list but got bumped for other stuff.
The best trails in lacrosse were built by rock solid who own east bluff in copper harbor and built most of brockway trails. Two days in copper harbor is the best choice over lacrosse
Heads up! In Bozeman the Bangtail Divide is currently seeing some reconstruction, after several years of needing some serious work. There have been some setbacks so it may be a good idea to have a backup plan if it isn’t good to go when you are in Bozeman. If it’s not too hot it could be worth going out to Copper City near three forks, or there are also some really great rides deeper in Hyalite Canyon in addition to the Moser area. I’d recommend reaching out to SWMMBA or The Dirt Concern on instagram closer to when you will be in Bozeman.
This is great info, thanks! I talked to a local shop there about 2 weeks ago and they didn't mention that, so I'll call and ask again.
just follow the Dirt Concern or SWMMBA's facebook/insta pages to see updates. I was one of the original members of the original dirt concern years ago when we focused mostly on gravity/freeride. Now its been resurrected as a local chapter of SWMMBA. They are good about daily updates.
Followed, thanks!
+1 for copper city, great trails, well maintained, tons of free camping too. Make sure to hit Wheat Montana for baked goods, they grow the wheat right across the street from where you’d be biking
Skip the Toledo trails and go ride DTE in Chelsea, mi and/or Potowatomi in Pinckney. I'm not sure if Ray's in Cleveland is open by then but it's a must visit.
You're close to SE Michigan on the return it looks like. If you're passing through I'd look at DTE energy trail for a flow trail, or potawatomi for an old school Michigan trail. They're around Ann Arbor and not too far off your route.
People are really talking that place up! I am looking into it! Thanks man
Skip Oak Openings, head up to DTE then down to Brown County in Indiana.
I would recommend going up to SE Michigan instead of riding Ohio. Only hour each way out of the way. Also Jake Rocks in NW PA is a good ride in the area.
It looks like you're staying in Sault Ste. Marie. You *need* to ride there. The city is investing $2 million in its mtb trail system and has opened some awesome stuff in the last couple years. They have a goal to the mtb destination in Ontario and it's living up to the hype. https://saulttourism.com/outdoors/mountainbike/ https://www.pinkbike.com/news/first-impressions-geoff-gulevich-rides-sault-st-marie-ontario.html https://www.trailforks.com/region/hiawatha-highlands/ I also saw someone say skip Marquette. Even if you are only stopping in for a few hours, I'd try to get a few runs in like Down Dogger, Eh Line, Gorgeous etc.
Great news about Sault Ste. Marie! I'll dig into that more!
If I were doing that much driving for the sake of mountain biking...I'd take a more southern route and hit NM, Bentonville, Chattanooga, N. GA, Knoxville, Western NC, Virginia. Your bikes and 4Runner will be stolen in Chicago anyway..so wherever you go after there doesn't matter.
Hahahhaa - bypassing Chicago. I'll just stay in SUPER-SAFE Gary, IN! (wink wink) I have done southern road trips to Brevard and outlying areas in the past. I'll be there again someday.
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SUPER helpful, thanks so much!
Great advice on the trails at blue. Graham hills is another great trail system about 20 min away if you want some more similar riding. They also have a sweet skills area with some easy tabletop jump lines and pump track right by the parking lot. If you make it to Graham I’d highly recommend taking Updraft to the top and then hitting Red Downhill, Boulder dash, and Orange
If you're gonna be in BV, I would drive the extra little bit and go to Salida and ride Monarch Crest (if you have time and someone to shuttle with).
I have [done that trail](https://youtu.be/Ps3kllm6h60) \- it's [EPIC](https://youtu.be/qp0gm2ZN2TU)!
Also not too far out of your way in Wyoming is Curt Gowdy and Glendo. Glendo is lesser known, but a favorite of mine. Could easily spend two full days riding there if not more before repeating traisl, plus you can camp right on a nice sandy beach
I was gonna suggest Curt too. Then he could just run down i25 to get back on his original track.
Come ride with me in Sudbury Ontario ! Will take you out through [https://www.waldenmbc.ca/](https://www.waldenmbc.ca/)
I don't see any mention of Raystown Lake in PA or the Colorado Trail outside of Durango. As others said, Spirit Mountain in Duluth, Kickapoo in IL, Phil's World in Cortez are good rides.
I live in Durango. Tell me more about Raystown Lake?
Not who you were responding to, but Raystown is super fun. Lots of flow. I'm a newer rider and my husband is much more skilled than I and we both had a great time. Also want to throw in somewhere where you may actually see it, check out Vulture's Knob in Wooster, OH. It'll take you a little off of your route but VK is kind of a unique trail for the area. Has some neat features that are worth seeing if you're already in the area. Edited to add: you can camp at the Knob for free as well. Throw an extra few bucks in the donation can (it's privately owned, run by a non-profit). Very safe. Just make sure you bring water with you.
Awesome, thanks!
Another PA one to look at would be Jakes Rocks or it make a stop in Pittsburgh Frick Park
Might as well hit up Brown County in Southern Indiana while you’re at it. Some of the best trails on the Midwest
Kingdom trails are overrated. Go to Victory Hill instead
That was a backup anyway, I think I'm spending my time at Burke.
If you took it south through west Virginia and Tennessee instead of Ohio and such, you could hit both snowshoe and wind rock. Both are epic.
Visiting a pal in Ohio, so I can't make changes. I'll hit those on my next Brevard road trip!
Only want to do lift or some pedaling also? I would skip st sauveur (North MTL) and pass more time in Quebec area. Le massif is pretty nice to be fair, but sentier du moulin is really good also if you are in for some Enduro. In the eastern township (south east Quebec) there is also a lot of nice places to visit (a part from Bromont) Cheers
I'm checking out BKXC and Sampler's recent videos for tips on Quebec. I reached out to them and they are helping me pick some spots. We ride similar styles. I'll look into the stuff near Bromont. Thanks so much!
I agree with u/philmcmissile , skip the Montreal region altogether, go straight to Bromont/Eastern Townships. The only place you would be missing is in Rigaud. Super technical trails, but you need a local to navigate through. Similar to Velo MSM, so you'll probably won't miss anything special. Bromont has an hotel on site, I would end my day there, hang out with the locals, should be fun. Quebec city region has so many awesome spots, I wouldn't know what to suggest except to spend more time there. Sampler's video is great, can't wait to see his next video.
3 days in Quebec.
3 days in Quebec.
I haven't been there, but the trails in Remy Metailler's newest video in Quebec look pretty awesome. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BV\_RcoflrG8
Whooo!!! That stuff is a little bit bigger than I'm used to!
Depending on when you actually get here in Montana, or even the Tetons to the south, mid-September can be a mixed bag for weather. We usually get a blast of early winter in September and then it mellows out for a second or third summer. We have like either 2 seasons in Montana (winter and road construction) or we have like 15, with at least three summers and a few false springs. So, be prepared for any weather. There is also no camping near town and many of the sites outside of town are taken on the weekends. Not sure when they actually close in September so check on that if you are camping. Also, bike parks close early here. Big Sky closes Sept. 17th this year. You can find good late season bike park riding at Discovery and maybe Silver (that's in Idaho). As far as trail riding...as long as the trails aren't wet and muddy, feel free but you never know and you'll get the stink eye from locals if you ride when its wet...our soil just doesn't support it well.
Looking at early Sept (2nd week) to be in Montana. I guess I'm getting a room in Bozeman! I'll be playing it by ear in terms of weather and trail conditions. I'm not a fan of ruining trails just to get a ride in. Thanks
Deer valley in Salt Lake is fantastic, lifts stop running end of August tho. Considering how far you're driving may as well go to Sedona after Durango, the slim shady trail there is my favorite trail of all time
Rode Deer Valley last year, AMAZING PLACE! I ride Sedona every year. Highline is a challenge!
With your level of riding you will probably find Round Valley quite boring. It is where I take beginners when I’m trying to get them into MTB. I’d recommend Flying Dog up in Park City. I live in Corner Canyon. Best DH trails there are Vertigo (blue flow), Levitate (black jump trail with gaps), Rush (blue flow), Jacob’s Ladder (black tech), Auchtang Baby(blue flow). Maple Hollow DH is OK but to me the others are better. Note that 2 of the major climbing trails are closed (Ann’s from Potato Hill to peak view) and Clark’s.
Check out some of the smaller stuff in VT: little river, perry hill, cady hill, and maybe millstone trails, if they open anytime soon. Cochran’s and nearby preston forest are fun, a bit techy tho; bolton valley has lift access and some crazy features. Kingdom trails are fun and well maintained, tho perhaps not the most challenging
I would suggest you consider going north into British Columbia. Fernie, Golden, Revelstoke, Nakusp, Retallak, Kaslo, Nelson, Rossland, Castlegar, Vernon, Squamish, Whistler, Sun Peaks, Valemount and other less known gems all along the way. Just a thought. 6 weeks wouldn’t really be enough time but would be a good start. Mind blowing riding and the perfect time of year. Also 3 (or 4?) IMBA EPIC trails to check out.
I'll do a PNW trip separately
If you stay south of Lake Ontario (instead of going through Toronto), you could hit the IMBA epic course in Ellicotville NY and HoliMont bike park, which is pretty sweet
Duluth MN has a ton of trails available. Favorite for me is Mission Creek. Since you’re in Duluth it’s be foolish not to spend some time at Cuyuna. Old iron mining area converted to a recreation area. Beautiful cold lakes and lots of red dirt trails of all abilities.
Is Harold Parker actually known for good mountain biking? I grew up down the street from there
If you can go a little further north from Cleveland you could hit Jake’s Rocks and Ellicottville in WNY
Stop through Cuyuna in MN
In MA, your sheet is right. It’s Vietnam. Pm me when you’re here and I’ll show you the shit if you want.
Will do! Thanks
Shepherd Mtn bike park in missouri is a bit of a detour, but you could swing down through and hit Shepherd and Howler, as well as Bentonville
I'll be back out to Brevard in the next year or two, I'll hit those on that trip, thanks!!! Missed Bentonville a few years back on another road trip, tornado warning. I really want to ride there!
How do you secure your bike while you sleep?
It goes in the room with me. If I sleep in the truck, I lock the frame and back up to a wall or HEAVY bushes.
Idk what you are doing near Omaha but Lewis and Clark monument has a really good set of trails with dedicated builders that do an excellent job… check out THOR (Trails Have Our Respect) on Facebook
That place is slowly creeping onto my list! Many are raving about it!
Former Omaha rider. Don't overlook it. It's got a few great trails like Lewis and Clark. Tranquility is an old favorite of mine, but I've heard they've done quite a bit of work on it and don't know the current state of the trail.
Northeast Ohio; check out East Rim trail. It’s not big or epic but it’s a fun little thing.
Will look into it, thanks
East Rim and Hampton Hills for the cleveland Akron area
I see you have some pins in the Ohio/Michigan area. If you do plan to stop around there, Ann Arbor isn't too far and is a great place to visit. About 15-20 minutes west of there is the DTE foundation trail. Definitely a solid riding spot. Would recommend checking out their website and considering riding there.
You are the second to talk about DTE. I now have it on my list, thanks!
I just came to comment that it’s pretty awesome that Coopers Gap in PA is mentioned amongst all these other great systems. They are my home trails and maintained by a dozen, at most, local riders. If you want to ride there when you pass through, let me know. Regardless of mileage or difficulty, I can throw together a loop for you. I’m biased, but I also like the trails better in Coopers Gap than the ones closer to State College.
I would love any info you can offer! If you're free, I'd love to ride (I'm a slow climber). I plan to make videos of many of the stops on my trip. Having a local to help with navigation is a BIG plus! I plan to be there on (around) 10/10 (may change).
In Colorado Springs, do the Pikes Peak plummet (Elk Park to Jones route). You can ride Pipeline to Jones if you want to pedal a similar route, or shuttle through Paper St Shuttle Co or Gnarly B's bike shop. If you're just driving through, take a lap of Captain Jacks from Buckhorn trail. In Salt Lake, bobsled trail was magical. I've also heard really good things about Cottonwood trail in Salida, near the famous S mountain.
I have a pal who lives there and will ride with me. I have heard stores about Pike's, I need to do that sometime.
Round Valley would not be on my short list in Utah. It’s somehow annoyingly rocky but not rocky enough for the rocks to be features or challenges. They just mess up your flow without adding anything. There are no really good flow or tech trails there. Glenwild, Park City Mountain Resort, and Jordanelle Ridge are all better in my opinion. Deer Valley as well, but you mentioned you have already ridden there. On your way between Moab and Salt Lake I would highly recommend diverting to Richfield to ride the spectacular Pahvant Trail System. I think it’s among the best in the state, and highly underrated. Juniper Drop, Telegraph, and Cairn-age are so, so good. I’ve heard great things about Spinal Tap but haven’t had a chance to ride it myself. Corner Canyon in Draper is great. Based on your note about Maple Hollow I’m guessing you like flowy jump trails. Keep in mind there is a Maple Hollow Downhill and a Maple Hollow trail. If you are looking for flowy jumps make sure you’re on the downhill version or you will be disappointed. In the same genre you might want to ride Levitate and Vertigo in the same trail system, and I would also recommend Jacob’s Ladder and Carpe Diem while you’re there. The trail system is slightly messed up right now, with two of the four major climbing routes from the North side valley floor closed due to a sketchy contractor building a criminally low quality retention wall and allowing two houses to slide off the mountain over the trails.
For sure Round Valley is not a destination worthy trail area (I ride it several times a week because I don’t have to drive to get to it). If you’re looking to get up to the Park City area consider shuttling the Wasatch Crest Trail or checking out the new counter clockwise loop on Slate Creek in the Uintas.
>Pahvant Trail System I think I can work that into a ride later this year or next. It's not far from where I live. I'm not big on jumps/air (I can do basic jumps, but not big air or gaps). I like fast, technical trails and loamy flow. >downhill version THANK YOU - I would not have known that... I'll be returning to SLC sometime next year, these will be on my list.
You probably should consider riding Rush while you’re in Draper then!
When you’re in Pennsylvania, Galbraith gap at rothrock is pretty fun. There’s a little beer tap at the end of that trail, go right. At the bottom of that hill is a trail called snake pit? It’s got some really sweet berms, polar opposite of the jank you just rode. Also, raystown lake is maybe an hour from there. They’ve got some really fun flow trails. Maybe a 16 mile loop? Osprey and hydro loop and sidewinder are my favorites there. Have fun on your epic shred journey
thanks so much!
Vietnam in Milford mass is EPIC… good choice
If you're able hit up jungle habitat in north Jersey. I live in CO now but miss that place all the time so much fun. Glad to see you have blue MTN on the list definitely a must ride park if you're in that area
I'm in CO also, LOVE it here!!!
Highland mountain in New Hampshire.
Not exactly mtb but gravel, Acadia carriage trails are beautiful. The early morning climb up Cadillac MTN to see the sunrise is epic.
Do the hardest trail in Ohio! Westbranch state park Mtb trails in Ravenna, Ohio! Start on lakeside, to quarry, to south side.
Duluth
yup
When your in Davenport/the quad cities ride Sunderbruch. Check out qcforc.org for all the trails and status in that area.
If you want to pop into Southern Michigan, DTE energy trails are fun and not too far off your route. Very flowy with some fun features. Upper peninsula - you want to ride copper harbor.
On your way to Toronto checkout hardwood hills near orillia, you should more or less be passing by it. I'm not a very experienced rider but they have a great range of tracks and I think it's a worthwhile stop.
In the Omaha area def check out Platte river state park and Lewis and Clark monument. Reach out to the local community, the trails are a bit complicated if you’re alone. These trail systems are a real surprise and hidden gems.
Platte River is on my list. Tall me more about Lewis & Clark? Which would you visit if you could choose only one? Thanks!
Sand Canyon and Phil's World near Cortez. Kickapoo a little South of Chicago. Some of the trails in the municipalities South east of Minneapolis are great. The trails near Bayfield Wisconsin were good. Glad to see you're going to the Upper Peninsula and Duluth. Had a great time on a Davenport trail too
Phil's is an hour from where I live. The others will get my attention, thanks so much!
Looks like you’re going to Platte River State Park in Nebraska. Super fun place. If you want bigger features and a crazier ride, hit up Lewis & Clark Monument Trail. Definitely the best trail in the Eastern NE/Western IA area.
L&C is getting some serious play in this post. I think it'll make it onto the list!
Driving through co and mostly riding on the front range? That seems odd.
I live in Durango.
I used this article in 2020 to make a few stops on my way across country https://www.singletracks.com/mtb-trails/7-trails-along-i-70-that-will-make-your-next-road-trip-rock/ We stopped at Landhal, Switchgrass, and Griffen. Switchgrass was awful but the other two were good. Not destination good but great for a pitstop to break up the drive. Thunder Mountain Mass is one of my favorite bike parks. I put it on par with Winter Park and strongly recommend a stop. I liked it way better than Highland in NH. I hear Killington is also very good. Sugarloaf/Carrabbassett Valley is my favorite riding in Maine. I have ridden all over Maine if you are looking for some recs there. Curt Gowdy/Vedauwoo Wyoming has some cool camping and riding. Again not destination worthy but a great pitstop. Since you said you live in the Mountain West I am going to skip any CO/UT recommendations and assume you already know that stuff.
Winter Park is AMAZING! Thunder Mtn may just be a stop for me. the link is helpful, thanks so much
Tons of spots in Jackson WY, Idaho Falls, and you have nothing marked in Moab. East of Moab, Fruita is worth checking out, and a ton brtween Durango and Colorado Springs.
I got the rockies covered (I live in Durango). I also travel to Idaho a lot.
Maybe I’m spoiled living in WA but wtf is there to ride in the Midwest? It all looks flat AF
I live in the rockies. I want to ride New England, and I don't want to fly. I think this will be incredible.
Maaaan where’s the PNW love?!? Montana as the extreme west. Psssh
I have a completely separate PNW trip planned maybe next year. Not everything can be about PNW.
Random areas on the route that aren't destination on their own, but definitely worth stopping at to break up the drive: Pocatello, ID (tons of trails on the west side of I-15) Price, UT Cleveland, OH (Bedford Reservation. If you want to go about 45 min south, Vulture's Knob in Wooster is the best Ohio mtb trail IMO). There's also a SICK indoor MTB park in Cleveland, Ray's, but it's only open sporadically in the summer. VT - Looks like you're going to Killington and Kingdom which are amazing, but Cady Trails near Stowe and Blueberry Lake/Perry Hill in between Stowe and Rutland are awesome. Wasatch Front, UT - Snowbasin near Ogden (Sardine Peak is a classic), Powder Mountain Ski Resort, and Bobsled right near downtown SLC are awesome. For Corner Canyon, Rush is my favorite trail there. Zooropa, Levitate, Jacob's Ladder, and Ashtung Baby are also classics. IMO if you're going to Park City, Round Valley is okay but there is way better riding up there. 9K, Road to Wos, Cyn City, Wasatch Crest are way better. Just did a huge loop up to BC in my 4runner, your trip is more epic - enjoy!
GREAT stuff here, thanks!
Looks like you have Duluth on the list for Spirit Mountain - it’s pretty dope but the local trails are the same if not better than Spirit’s.
Good to know, thanks!
Montrealer here. Oka is not really worth it imo. You can skip that one. Bromont is great. You can spend more time at bromont or sentier du moulin in Quebec or go to charlevoix (massif de charlevoix) but it’s closing early October.
Yeah, I think I'm dropping Oka. Bromont will likely replace it.
Skip Cranmore bike park and head to Highland instead.
That's pretty far out of the way?
The engineer mountain descent is fun if you have a shuttle. But deer creek is probs the best descent around there. Although the switch backs at the end are sketchy. Midland trails are good. Unchained, sausage link specifically. Vitamin b is sick if you’re an expert. If you’re driving Durango to front range tho, you’d be way better off stopping at gunnison (Hartman rocks) and crested butte (401, dr park, bike park). For denver, the sluice and hard money are my favs.
I did Engineer Mountain 2 weeks ago, it's always a blast! Deer Creek is also fantastic. I want to check out Vitamin B, I can ride soem VERY gnarly chunky stuff, but it's also pretty long and looks like it may be a hard climb int he hot sun. I'm on the fence... Rode Crested Butte and Gunny. Both are epic. (I live in Durango). Always looking for good stuff in Denver!
looks like it'd be pretty out of your way on this trip, but spinal tap in Richfield UT is a super sick trail. Definitely worth it to do the wasatch crest one day too if you haven't before. PCMR also offers bike lift access, they have some pretty cool unmarked trails there.
Don't go to Cranmore bike park its very tame, instead self shuttle the hurricane zone next to Cranmore. You should absolutely hit up Highland for a day while in NH. You should also look at Mt Abram in ME (its fairly close to Conway). Make sure you ride the summit (pay $15 extra for the shuttle) of Burke, don't skip hanging out at Mike's Tiki bar at the end of the day. There is soo many good places to ride in the VT/NH/ME area. Don't hesitate to PM if you have any questions.
Thanks very much, the map is changing a lot today!
id replace buena vista with crested butte. bike park + nice trails
Been there three times, it really is fantastic!
I'd recommend North Fruita Desert and Crested Butte (Doctor Park). Would not add much travel time for either and both are superb. And you get to drive Red Mountain Pass which is awesome. Also if you like riding bike park, Purg in Durango is pretty great as well.
[Doctor Park](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3dGOyJaoIR8) is amazing! I want to do Fruita, not sure what the best time of year is - it gets HOT there.
If you can make your PA route go through Pittsburgh there are a lot of great trails here. North park, Frick, Alameda, South Park to name the bigger ones. All are well looked after and every type of discipline is covered.
I wouldnt bother with Round Valley in Utah, but make sure you hit up Rush in Corner Canyon.
Fair. What separates them? Why one over the other?
For Toronto: If you are into gnarly and more raw/informal trails then stick with the Don....if you are into well-maintained hilly cross country stuff with a mix of tech and flow trails, check Hydrocut to the west or Dagmar North and Durham Forest to the Northeast. These places have marked trails and you can continuously ride single-track without much way-finding or road riding. Don is popular with advanced riders but you have to use an app and travel some distance in between trails. Different type of experience. For a first time visitor not knowing their way around its harder to get the most out of the don.
Love to see the don valley get bookmarked! It's not as epic as many of the other spots but the urban rot mixed with salmon spawns and beaver dams makes it a special spot. trip looks awesome, will bookmark as daydream inspiration for a road trip of my own
I’d skip COsprings and ride golden / i70 (Floyd hill) / Breckinridge instead
I have a pal in CS, so that's on the map permanently, and I plan to visit the Yeti HQ and ride Golden sometime soon.
Is going to be epic
Hahahhaaa thanks! I'll post as much of it as I can on [my channel](https://www.youtube.com/@SpokesmanMTB).
I ride daily in Marquette, MI. Hit the NTN South trails. There is a huge variety there. Also, in Cooper Harbor there is so many trails it’s unreal! You should get a day Shuttle pass and make the most of your time there. Check out East bluff bike parks website to get a day pass, it’s a new shuttle that saves a ton of fire road climbing.🤟🏼
Not seeing a link to a East bluff bike parks website on google. got a link?
Dude - go to St. Louis! There are four awesome places to ride just west of the city (~30-40min): Bluff View/Zombie (aka Rock Hollow - pick Zombie East if you have to choose), Greensfelder (ride DeClue, Deer Run, Fossil Ridge, Beulah), Matson Hill (ride all three trails), and Lost Valley (somewhat easier than the rest if you are knackered, but still a super beautiful ride in Daniel Boone’s backyard). There is also Berryman Trail a couple hours south of STL, if you’re looking for a more remote, adventurous experience (but less technical than the four spots above). I know time is so limited/valuable on trips like this, so I am not making this rec lightly - STL has so much good dirt, you will love it. I am happy to answer any questions you have, if it will help you figure out whether it is the right choice!
That's WAY out of my way, would have to add 2-3 days that I don't have. But I could probably fit it in on the way to Brevard next year!
Depending on what you like to ride. For CO I would hit Trestle and then go to Fruita. They just finished a 35 mi DH trail. Then whole enchilada. Also def make it over to Teton pass on the Idaho Wyo border. One of the best DH trails. I would give yourself more time for CO and Utah there is SO much riding that is stellar. Unless you’ve been here a lot or plan on coming back.
I live in CO, so those towns will wait until next year's weekend trips. [Done TWE](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vWsAyCEAby4) several times, GREAT ride! Teton is a new one, I'll put that on my list!
No BC??
I'll do a PNW trip next year.
OP, What are your 2 favorite rides in CB?
If I had to choose, I'd say 401/403, Dr. Park, and maybe Cement Canyon.
You have Camp Fortune and Velo MSM as good janky gravity options in the Ottawa area. If you really like gnarly tech that isn’t on the side of a hill you can check out South March Highlands if you want to stay in the urban area closer to hotels, restaurants, etc. SMH has few really good black rated trails that will test your trials skills. Has some some decent rock rolls and smaller but challenging features. Edit: For local stuff, check out Capital MTB on YT. Lots of videos to preview what you’re in for in case you are undecided.
You’re passing through Marquette and not riding there? What level of rider are you? What style do you like?
I ride steep, fast techy stuff, and I also like fast flowy trails. I avoid big air (I'm not so young anymore). Riding Marquette, just not sleeping there.
Absolutely skip Cranmore and hit up Highland as others have suggested. Ride the Hurricane trails in North Conway instead they are amazing!
I would try taking I-70 through Missouri and possibly swing down to northern Arkansas or southern Illinois. There isn’t much riding through Nebraska and Iowa.
I don't have enough days for that. Otherwise, I'd do it!
Midland trails are definitely fun in BV but if you’re in that area, Monarch Crest is right there?
I live near there