Mountain Biking Public Trails in Mammoth Lakes

November 29, 2023

Named for the iconic, 250 million-year-old limestone and marble monolith, Mammoth Rock Trail is a multi-use singletrack trail that is a favorite route for a mountain biking adventure in Mammoth Lakes.

Located on the south side of town, the trail traverses the Sherwin Ridge passing beneath Mammoth Rock. The trail offers a bird’s-eye view of Mammoth Lakes and the wildflower-shrouded Sherwin Meadow below, with unobstructed views of the Long Valley Caldera and the White and Glass Mountains in the distance.

Along the way mountain bikers will pass hikers, trail runners, dog walkers and horseback riders who will all be enjoying the trail. From the top, the singletrack rolls gently downhill through an aspen grove and through a technical boulder field before a short and steep climb. The trail then meanders through a lodgepole and Jeffrey pine forest before a final winding descent through a sandy sagebrush wash.

How To Ride It:

The multi-use Mammoth Rock Trail can be traveled in both directions from trailheads on either end of the trail. It’s generally best to ride out-and-back from the bottom. Park at or pedal to the trailhead on Sherwin Creek Road just past the Borrow Pit. The 2.5-mile route climbs more than 600 vertical feet before reaching the top at Old Mammoth Road. Turn around and enjoy the descent for a 5-mile round-trip mountain bike ride. Be sure to use caution, control your speed and yield to others.

Quick Tips: The trail is exposed most of the way, so be sure to bring plenty of water and wear sun protection including sunscreen and sunglasses. Pack some snacks and enjoy the view while taking a break on the cliffs at the top of the trail.

Author

Visit Mammoth

Unreal. There is no better way to describe Mammoth Lakes, California. A place so majestic that breathtaking views surround you in every direction. The staff at Mammoth Lakes Tourism is committed to stewardship, education, providing the ultimate visitor experience, and keeping the Real Unreal.

How To Ride It:

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