The best MTB trails in Billings County

Billings County offers a diverse range of mountain bike trails, from easy loops to challenging long-distance routes. You'll find paths traversing the rugged Badlands, winding along the Little Missouri River, and even sections through ancient petrified forests. There are 8 routes listed in this guide, including 2 easy, 5 moderate, and 1 difficult option.

Yes, Billings County has trails suitable for beginners and families. An excellent easy option is the Maah Daah Hey Trail: Medora Loop, which is 13.0 miles (20.9 km) long and offers scenic views of the Badlands terrain. Another easy route is the Lower Paddock Creek Trail & Jones Creek Trail loop, covering 18.6 miles (29.9 km) with minimal elevation gain.

For experienced riders seeking a challenge, the Trail to Medora – Cottonwood Campground loop from Cottonwood Campground is a difficult 38.4 miles (61.8 km) route that leads through the Badlands. The Buffalo Gap Trail Loop is another moderate yet substantial option at 19.9 miles (32.1 km), winding through hills and grasslands.

The best time for mountain biking in Billings County is typically spring and fall, when temperatures are milder. Summer can be very hot, and winter brings snow and ice, making many trails impassable or requiring specialized gear. Always check current weather and trail conditions before heading out.

Yes, several circular mountain bike routes are available. Examples include the easy Maah Daah Hey Trail: Medora Loop, the moderate Buffalo Gap Trail Loop, and the more challenging Trail to Medora – Cottonwood Campground loop from Cottonwood Campground.

Mountain biking in Billings County offers spectacular scenery, primarily dominated by the rugged Badlands. You'll encounter colorful buttes, mesas, and canyons carved by erosion. Many trails provide scenic vistas of the Little Missouri River, and some routes, like the Maah Daah Hey and Petrified Forest Loop, take you through sections of ancient petrified trees.

The Maah Daah Hey Trail system, which forms the backbone of many routes, has 14 designated trailheads providing access. Many of these trailheads offer amenities such as vault toilets, water, and fire rings, making them convenient starting points for day rides or multi-day adventures. The town of Medora also serves as a key access point to the park and trails.

While exploring the trails, you can encounter several natural and scenic points of interest. The Painted Canyon Overlook and Painted Canyon Visitor Center offer stunning views of the Badlands. You'll also ride near the Little Missouri River, and some routes pass through the Petrified Forest Trail (South). Keep an eye out for the Big Plateau Trail and the Ridgeline Nature Trail Overlook for more scenic spots.

Yes, Billings County is known for its abundant wildlife, especially within and around Theodore Roosevelt National Park. Riders often have the chance to observe bison, wild horses, and various bird species, adding to the natural experience of the Badlands.

While the Maah Daah Hey Trail is internationally renowned, its extensive length (144-157 miles) means that many sections, especially those further from popular access points like Medora, can offer a more solitary riding experience. Exploring some of the longer, more challenging routes or visiting during off-peak seasons (spring or fall) can also lead to less crowded trails.

The Maah Daah Hey Trail itself is generally not open to bicycles within the main units of Theodore Roosevelt National Park. However, alternate routes are provided to bypass these sections, ensuring a continuous trail experience. Within the park, all park roads are open to biking, allowing you to experience the badlands scenery. For specific park regulations, it's advisable to check the official National Park Service website: nps.gov.