Many places around the state are perfect spots for mountain bikers. But apparently, it was only recently that the sport was much appreciated in the area.
It was not until Payson McElveen, national marathon champ, said that it was in Texas where he started his career as a mountain biker.
That was when National Mountain biking committees started to take notice of the Texan mountain biking scene. It seems that the world has underestimated the sport in Texas.
As it turned out, Texas has over a hundred popular trails, as well as many biking organizations. There are also many enthusiasts and racers in the state.
Best Mountain Bike Trails in Texas
1. Palo Duro Canyon
The Palo Duro Canyon is a well-known spot for outdoor activities. It is also a popular spot for mountain biking as well. The trails in the canyon vary from the easy beginner trails to the gnarly and intense routes.
The area has over 26 miles of single-track trails that go through the scenic landscape of the canyon. It has simple dirt paths to more technical terrain like extreme drops, technical climbs, and switchbacks.
That is why the canyon has become one of the hottest spots for riders of all skill levels.
2. Reveille Peak Ranch
This mountain biking spot is near Austin. Over recent years, this trail system has grown immensely popular among mountain bikers. It is also home to several racing events.
The Reveille Peak Ranch is not for beginners in the spot. Surely, intermediate and advanced riders will enjoy what the ranch has to offer. It has tight spots, rocky obstacles, and uphill climbs.
Portions of this track are carved and cut off granite rock, so there are more grip and traction than other trails, predominantly made out of limestone. To summarize Reveille’s features, they have over 100 kilometers of trails composed of single tracks, double track, ranch roads, and downhill trails.
This track is designed, maintained, and built by Trail Party. The trail is rated from green lines to double-black downhills. It has a total of nine jump lines, a pump track, and caters to all skill levels.
3. Flat Rock Ranch – Upper and Lower Loop
Mountain biking at Flat Rock Ranch offers 28 miles of single track along with some jeep trails. The trails cover typical Texas hill country rocky terrain coupled with spectacular views. There are good hill climbs, and the best of all is the long downhill sections.
The single tracks are technical that lead to several creek crossings. The whole map of the area is located at the trailhead and is pretty much the main gateway to all trails in the area.
If you are going to go there, keep in mind to bring your tools and water. It is best to bring along a couple of tubes. Flats are quite common in the area due to their rocky terrain. The ranch does have a repair area in the trailhead with a mechanic stand.
Your Flat Rock experience will cost you $10 per person, but I guarantee that it will be worth every penny. Several races are held by NORBA every year. One of the main events is the Flat Rock downhill race.
4. North Shore Trail
The North Shore Trails in Northern Texas is well known for mountain biking and hiking. It features 29 miles of trail covering Rockledge Park to the Twin Coves Park area located at the northern part of Lake Grapevine.
North Shore is for intermediate to advanced riders. The trail offers a very scenic view of the shores and the lake cliffs. Although there are some rough points, the trail is relatively safe for riders and hikers alike.
There are three entry areas for the North Shore trail. You can go through either Rockledge Park, Murrel Park, and Twin Coves Park. They all have designated parking areas for the trail as well as trailheads.
Riders are required to wear helmets at all times and should stay in the marked areas. There are no motorized vehicles allowed, so the trail is solely for mountain bikers and hikers alone. There is also no camping allowed as well as horses on the bike trails.
Restrooms, picnic tables, grills, and pavilions are located at the trailheads. The trail is available all year round, but they do close down depending on the weather conditions.
5. Dana Peak Park
Dana Peak Park is a full single-track trail located in Central Texas. The terrain is composed of hard-packed gravel, limestone, and some loose rocks when climbing and descending. It offers about 20 miles of trails that cater to intermediate and advanced riders.
Dana Peak is located near the shores of Stillhouse Hollow Lake. It is not only a place to ride, but it is also a great place for backpacking. Camping, swimming, and fishing are allowed in the area near the lake.
Riding experience is essential for riders on the trail since there are some technical descents. Some tracks are wider than the others but are mostly single tracks. The place is great for cross-country riding, given the long technical climbs and descents it offers.
Conclusion
As presented, these are the most popular Texas bike trails. They range from beginner-friendly single tracks to technical double-black downhill tracks.
When you opt to visit these Texas trails, having the best beginner mountain bikes will often suffice. Always make sure that safety is always your priority, and having the right equipment is the key.
Some of these trails are long and have harsh terrain, so you should come in prepared. Having the best mountain biking shoes is good for added safety. The typical rocky Texas terrain will always be challenging, but you have nothing to worry about when you come in prepared.
