Adventure travelers, are you ready to embark on a thrilling journey like no other? Leave the comfort of your home behind and explore the world on two wheels. From the rugged terrains of the American West to the stunning vistas of the Swiss Alps, we’ve curated a list of the most incredible mountain biking adventures that will set your heart racing and leave you in awe of nature’s breathtaking beauty.
1. Moab, Utah, USA
Moab, Utah is a mecca for mountain biking enthusiasts. This desert town boasts some of the most challenging and scenic trails in the world. The iconic Slickrock Trail is a must-ride, with its steep climbs, sudden drops, and stunning views of the surrounding red rock formations. For a truly epic adventure, tackle the Whole Enchilada, a 27-mile journey that takes you from the peaks of the La Sal Mountains down to the Colorado River.
2. Whistler, British Columbia, Canada
Whistler is a world-renowned ski resort, but it’s also home to some of the best mountain biking trails in North America. The Whistler Mountain Bike Park offers over 70 trails for riders of all skill levels, from beginner-friendly routes to expert-level downhill runs. Don’t miss the Top of the World trail, which starts with a gondola ride to the peak of Whistler Mountain and then descends over 5,000 vertical feet through alpine meadows and old-growth forests.
3. Swiss Alps, Switzerland
The Swiss Alps are a dream destination for adventure travelers, and mountain biking is one of the best ways to explore this stunning region. The Alps offer a wide range of trails, from easy cross-country routes to technical singletrack. One of the most popular rides is the Swiss Epic, a multi-day journey that takes you through the heart of the Alps, past glaciers, mountain lakes, and picturesque villages.
4. Rotorua, New Zealand
Rotorua is a geothermal wonderland located on New Zealand’s North Island, and it’s also home to some of the country’s best mountain biking trails. The Whakarewarewa Forest, known locally as “The Redwoods,” offers over 130 miles of trails that wind through towering redwood trees and past bubbling mud pools and steaming geysers. Don’t miss the Grade 5 “Eagle vs. Shark” trail, which features steep drops, tight turns, and plenty of air time.
5. Kingdom Trails, Vermont, USA
The Kingdom Trails in northeastern Vermont are a hidden gem for mountain bikers. This network of over 100 miles of trails winds through the rolling hills and dense forests of the Northeast Kingdom region. The trails are well-maintained and offer a mix of flowy singletrack, challenging climbs, and fast descents. Don’t miss the Troll Stroll trail, which features wooden bridges, berms, and jumps that will keep you grinning from ear to ear.
6. Dolomites, Italy
The Dolomites are a mountain range in northeastern Italy known for their jagged peaks, stunning vistas, and incredible mountain biking trails. The region offers a wide range of trails for riders of all skill levels, from easy cross-country routes to technical singletrack. One of the most popular rides is the Sella Ronda circuit, a challenging loop that takes you through four mountain passes and past some of the most spectacular scenery in the Alps.
7. Bend, Oregon, USA
Bend is a mountain biking paradise located in central Oregon. The town is surrounded by miles of trails that wind through dense forests, along rushing rivers, and past stunning mountain vistas. The Phil’s Trail network is a must-ride, with over 300 miles of trails that offer something for everyone, from beginner-friendly routes to expert-level singletrack. Don’t miss the North Fork trail, which features steep climbs, technical descents, and stunning views of the Cascade Mountains.
8. Queenstown, New Zealand
Queenstown is the adventure capital of New Zealand, and mountain biking is one of the town’s top activities. The surrounding mountains offer a wide range of trails, from easy cross-country routes to technical downhill runs. One of the most popular rides is the Skyline Gondola, which takes you to the top of Bob’s Peak and then lets you loose on a network of trails that wind through the stunning scenery of the Southern Alps.
9. Finale Ligure, Italy
Finale Ligure is a small town on the Italian Riviera that has become a mecca for mountain bikers in recent years. The surrounding hills offer a wide range of trails, from easy cross-country routes to technical enduro runs. The area is known for its stunning coastal views, charming villages, and delicious Italian cuisine. Don’t miss the NATO Base trail, which features steep climbs, technical descents, and incredible views of the Mediterranean Sea.
10. Sedona, Arizona, USA
Sedona is a desert town in northern Arizona known for its stunning red rock formations and incredible mountain biking trails. The area offers a wide range of trails for riders of all skill levels, from easy cross-country routes to technical singletrack. One of the most popular rides is the Hiline trail, which features steep climbs, technical descents, and stunning views of the surrounding desert landscape. Don’t miss the Hangover trail, which includes a section of exposed riding along a cliff edge that will test your nerves and your skills.
Whether you’re a seasoned mountain biker or a beginner looking for a new adventure, these ten destinations offer some of the most incredible 2-wheel experiences in the world. So pack your bags, grab your bike, and get ready to explore the breathtaking beauty of the great outdoors on two wheels.