The best MTB trails in Plumas County

The Mills Peak Loop is a moderate 19.2-mile (30.9 km) mountain biking trail that promises a varied and engaging ride, typically completed in about 3 hours and 5 minutes with 2830 feet (863 metres) of elevation gain. You'll navigate through diverse terrain, from fast, flowy sections to challenging rock gardens and loose shale, all while enjoying impressive high-mountain scenery and expansive views of the Gold Lakes Basin. It's a trail that keeps you on your toes, rewarding effort with stunning vistas.

Planning your ride on the Mills Peak Loop offers flexibility; you can tackle the full loop as a challenging climb and descent, or opt for a shuttle service to enjoy a predominantly downhill experience. While generally considered moderate, some sections, particularly in the upper third, require good fitness and advanced riding skills. Be sure to factor in the significant elevation changes if you're riding the full loop.

This iconic Northern California mountain biking trail is a creation of the Sierra Buttes Trail Stewardship, the same organization behind the famous Downieville Downhill. Its blend of technical challenges and flowy descents, set within a beautiful high-mountain environment, makes it stand out. Don't miss the historic fire lookout at the peak for truly awe-inspiring panoramic views that cap off the experience.

The Long Lake Trail offers a rewarding mountain biking experience in Sierra County, California, perfect for those who appreciate a good climb and scenic surroundings. You'll navigate through varied terrain, from shaded forest paths to more open sections that provide glimpses of the natural beauty of the region. It's a route designed to challenge you without being overly technical, making it a great choice for intermediate riders.

This moderate 7.5-mile (12.0 km) route features a substantial 1106 feet (337 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking about 1 hour and 14 minutes to complete. Plan your visit for the warmer months, from late spring to early fall, to avoid snow and ensure clear trail conditions. Parking is usually available at the trailhead, but an early start is recommended to beat any crowds and enjoy the best riding temperatures.

While specific details about this particular Long Lake Trail are not widely publicized, the area is known for its diverse landscapes and opportunities for outdoor recreation. The trail's moderate difficulty and consistent climb make it an excellent option for building fitness and enjoying the quiet solitude of the Sierra Nevada foothills. It's a solid choice if you're looking for a satisfying ride away from more crowded areas.

The Jamison Creek Trail offers an intense mountain biking experience through the scenic Lakes Basin of California's Lost Sierra. You'll navigate a challenging 23.4-mile (37.6 km) route, gaining 3697 feet (1127 metres) in elevation over approximately 4 hours and 8 minutes. Expect rocky, technical terrain with large steps and loose rock, especially on descents, but also be ready for stunning alpine lake views, including Grass Lake and Wades Lake, that make the effort worthwhile.

This difficult trail is best suited for expert riders, with some segments even carrying a "Double Black Diamond" rating. You can find parking, restrooms, and water at the Upper Jamison Creek Campground, which serves as a convenient trailhead. Be mindful that early season rides might encounter snow banks at higher elevations, so checking conditions is crucial for a safe and enjoyable trip.

Known for its significant climb and technical descent, the Jamison Creek Trail is a popular singletrack option within the region. While primarily a mountain biking route, it's also used by hikers and trail runners, particularly on weekends. The trail's demanding nature and the beautiful Lost Sierra setting make it a standout choice for advanced mountain bikers seeking a true test of skill and endurance.

The Mills Peak Lookout – Mills Peak Trail loop from C-Road offers a dynamic mountain biking adventure through the stunning Lakes Basin. You'll climb through diverse terrain, eventually reaching the Mills Peak Fire Lookout at 7,300 feet, where panoramic views of Gold Lake and Sierra Valley await. The descent is a highlight, transitioning from rocky, technical singletrack in the upper sections to flowy bermed corners and challenging rock gardens further down, all while surrounded by old-growth trees and occasional wide-open vistas.

This moderate 17.0-mile (27.3 km) route involves a substantial 2913 feet (888 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking around 3 hours and 2 minutes to complete. While the Mills Peak Trail is popular for shuttle descents, this loop provides the full experience, including the rewarding climb. Parking is available at the C-Road trailhead, and planning your visit for late spring or early fall often provides the best conditions.

What makes this trail truly stand out is its design by the Sierra Buttes Trail Stewardship, known for creating world-class mountain biking routes. It balances excellent rolling flow with technical challenges, featuring tight, rocky, and smooth lines that keep the ride engaging. Compared to more crowded trails in the region, Mills Peak offers a chance to enjoy impressive high-mountain scenery and fresh air with fewer riders.

The Grass Lake – Big Bear Lake loop from Blairsden offers a demanding mountain biking experience, blending scenic connector trails with intensely technical sections. You'll start on the Grass Lake Trail, enjoying a pleasant path that passes a notable waterfall and a campground, before tackling the very rocky and steep terrain of the Bear Lakes Loop. This difficult 26.5-mile (42.6 km) route features 3454 feet (1053 metres) of elevation gain and typically takes around 4 hours and 14 minutes, making it ideal for advanced riders seeking a significant challenge.

Planning your visit to this loop near Blairsden requires preparation for a truly difficult ride. The northern section of the Bear Lakes Loop is rated Double Black Diamond, with parts that are basically unclimbable, so be ready to push your bike. Ensure you have a well-maintained mountain bike and sufficient supplies for a strenuous outing in the Lakes Basin area.

What sets this route apart is the extreme technical difficulty of the Bear Lakes Loop, particularly its northern segment, which is known for being very rocky and steep. While the Grass Lake Trail provides a beautiful lead-in, the overall loop is a test of skill and endurance, offering advanced riders a rewarding adventure through the natural beauty of the region.

The Grass Lake – Big Bear Lake loop from Gold Lake Dam offers a truly wild mountain biking experience in California's Lakes Basin. You'll navigate through dense forests and open granite landscapes, passing by multiple glacially carved lakes like Big Bear Lake and Grass Lake, with a notable waterfall near the latter. The terrain is rugged, featuring technical singletrack, granite steps, and rock outcrops, providing a constant challenge amidst breathtaking Sierra Nevada scenery.

Planning your ride requires attention to seasonal access, as the Gold Lake Highway, your entry point, closes in winter due to heavy snow. This means the best time to visit is typically late spring through early fall. While specific parking information isn't detailed, you'll generally find access and parking originating from the Gold Lake area. Always check local conditions before you go, as this remote area can be unpredictable.

This difficult 23.9-mile (38.5 km) loop, with its 3320 feet (1012 metres) of elevation gain, is designed for experienced riders and takes around 4 hours to complete. It's known for its