Perched in the heart of Mammoth Lakes, California, the Mammoth Mountain Bike Park is renowned as a mecca for biking enthusiasts. Featuring 80 miles of thrilling singletracks, it provides a delightful mix of trails for different skill levels. While many reviews praise the park, some feedback suggests areas for improvement.
Park Overview
- Distance: 80 mi
- Level: Difficult
- Route type: Network
- City: Mammoth Lakes
- State: California
Trail Highlights
- Skid Marks: A favorite for many, located on the east side of the peak.
- Velocity Downhill: Known as the nationals course in '01, it offers an invigorating challenge when open.
- Kamikazi: This trail offers a straight, steep fire road downhill experience.
- Off the Top: Designed with numerous switchbacks, it's suitable for beginner to intermediate riders.
- Lower Trails: "Downtown," "Seven Bridges," and "Shotgun" are mentioned as commendable routes at the mountain's base.
The Gondola Experience
The resort's gondola ride stands out as a primary attraction. Riders can opt to go halfway or ascend to the peak, with both points offering various trailheads to commence their journey. The trails often lead back to the gondola or direct cyclists to the village where a shuttle awaits.
Cyclists' Feedback
Although the park boasts a robust trail system and gondola facilities, it's not without its critics:
- Trail Maintenance: An advanced rider who visited on September 2, 2018, lamented the lack of recent maintenance. Sandy sections made the ride less enjoyable. The park claims to be "The Premier Bike Park in the U.S.", but for this rider, it falls short of this title.
- Ground Texture: The park's predominant pumice terrain has met with mixed reactions. While it's structurally sound for trail-building, some riders find its sandy texture challenging.
- Diverse Opinions: Some cyclists revel in the park's downhill experiences, while others express a preference for XC trails amid the trees.
- Rental Facilities: For those not keen on bringing their bikes, local stores offer a plethora of quality rental options.
- Views and Scenery: Beyond the trails, the breathtaking view from the peak stands out as a bonus for many riders, underscoring Mammoth's reputation as a must-visit destination.
In Conclusion
The Mammoth Mountain Bike Park in Mammoth Lakes, CA, is undeniably a gem in the world of mountain biking. With its expansive trail system and scenic beauty, it holds tremendous promise. However, the call for better maintenance and enhancements is clear, and addressing these concerns will elevate the park's status even further.
10 mi 
