Great Places To Ride Your Bike In Idaho

There are over 19,000 miles of bike trails in the state of Idaho. In an area that's known for its mountains and rivers, you can expect some spectacular riding! Because of harder winters and wet springs, the best time to ride is usually summer or early fall. Here are a variety of trails that Idaho has to offer for riders of every skill level.

The Mink Creek Recreation Area near Pocatello has an 11-mile loop called the Valve or Pump House trail. This is a great place for beginners to hone their skills. There's nothing too technical here, but it will test your endurance. Bring plenty of water.

Near Stanley, intermediate riders will enjoy the 12-mile loop called Elk Mountain. This trail is initially a pretty easy uphill climb and it provides a fantastic view of the Saw Tooth Mountains, but the descent is pretty rocky all the way down to Elk Meadows. You get to cross a few streams, too. All along this trail, the scenery is incredible.

Nature lovers will also enjoy the 12-mile trail at Goose Creek Falls. Located near McCall, it's a good ride for riders with intermediate level skills. Bikers will cross the Goose Creek multiple times via various means such as on foot, using a log crossing, and by bridge, but that is probably the most difficult part. It's well worth the effort, though, because you'll also get a rare opportunity to view a 45-foot waterfall! Camping is available near this area, as well.

If you're looking for something a bit more challenging, the well maintained trails at the Schweitzer Mountain Resort may be just the ticket. These 25 miles of intermediate to advanced trails include bridges, berms, turns, and other challenges, and the descent is particularly tricky. You can even get a ride to the top and then just concentrate all your energy on the going down part.

Adventure lovers who can't go fast enough will have a blast at the Bald Mountain Downhill Trail. Located not far from Ketchum, this is one huge hill with an increase in elevation measuring 3,000 to 4,000 feet. You can bike the entire 10-mile loop if you have the energy, but if you're more into the descent and the race downhill, consider taking the chairlift to the top for just $15. Be careful of hikers and other bikers coming down, and make sure your bike has a full suspension for this trail. You'll also want to have extra tubes and a repair kit in your backpack because you just might need them.

The Bear Pete trail near McCall is another burning-kick-in-the-seat-of-the-pants ride! It is approximately 19 miles, but you are rewarded with a hot springs resort at the end and a lot of gorgeous views along the way. The best time to go is in late summer or early fall, when its fairly dry. You will pass through a boggy area and during the wet season it could be practically impassable. There's a pretty steep climb followed by a tricky descent, but once you get to the top you can see all the way to Oregon and the Saw Tooth Mountains!

Idaho's bike trails offer adventure and awesome views of the mountains, valleys, rivers, and waterfalls. The natural beauty is unsurpassed, and bike riders of all experience levels will love biking in this state. Just select the trail that is best suited to your experience level and enjoy the ride!