OutsideMay 27, 2026
The Best Mountain Bike Towns in the U.S., Ranked
A lifetime cyclist and avid mountain biker, our columnist ranks the most mountain bike-friendly small towns across America. The towns that made the cut have a lot of singletrack. But just as important as miles of trail is the vibe.
25 things in this story
- Pisgah National ForestTrailKnown for rooty, extremely technical singletrack.
- The HubRestaurantBike shop/bar at Pisgah National Forest entrance.
- Oskar BluesRestaurantBrewery with a great outdoor space.
- Bridal Veil FallsSightImpressive waterfall in DuPont State Forest.
- Big Rock/Cedar Rock Trail loopTrailTakes you up granite dome with long-range views.
- DuPont State ForestTrailMore than 80 miles of trails, waterfalls, swimming holes.
- Elsewhere
- Thai BellaRestaurantMoab, United StatesOffers large portions and a shaded outdoor patio.
- Duluth TraverseTrailDuluth, United States42-mile point-to-point romp entirely within city limits.
- Bent Paddle BrewingRestaurantDuluth, United StatesGo-to spot when visiting Duluth.
- Ursa Minor BrewingRestaurantDuluth, United StatesWood-fired pizzas are a must-try.
- Northern Waters SmokeHausRestaurantDuluth, United StatesGet some smoked fish.
- Woodward Bike ParkSightPark City, United StatesOne of the best lift-served bike parks in the country.
- Trailside Bike ParkSightPark City, United StatesCity-run park with jump lines and downhill trails.
- Mid Mountain TrailTrailPark City, United States26-mile high alpine cruise around 8,000 feet.
- High West DistilleryRestaurantPark City, United StatesOffers whiskey flights and dishes like schnitzel.
- Nelson CottageRestaurantPark City, United StatesUltimate experience with prix-fixe dinner paired with whiskey.
- Alpine TrailTrailOakridge, United States15 miles mostly downhill with 4,000 feet vertical drop.
- Alpine LoopTrailOakridge, United StatesFull 35-mile loop.
- 3 Legged Crane Pub and BrewhouseRestaurantOakridge, United StatesBritish-style pub known for house-casked ales.
- Klondike Bluff trail systemTrailMoab, United StatesFast, flowy singletrack to super technical ridge.
- AlaskaTrailMoab, United States4-mile leg with razorback ridge moments.
- Mission CreekTrailDuluth, United StatesMore than 20 miles of flow, great for beginners.
- Spirit MountainTrailDuluth, United StatesOffers lift-served gravity in spades.
- Hartley ParkTrailDuluth, United States15 miles of flow and rocky tech.
- Main StreetNeighborhoodPark City, United States