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MTB trails
United States
California
Riverside County

Rancho Mirage

The best MTB trails around Rancho Mirage

5.0

(3)

40

riders

11

rides

Mountain biking around Rancho Mirage offers diverse routes set against the backdrop of the Santa Rosa Mountains, characterized by striking desert landscapes. The terrain includes rugged desert, canyons, and rocky singletrack, with some sections featuring sandy washes. Riders can navigate gradual climbs, steep descents, and technical portions through desert brush and cacti. The region provides a variety of trails, from lower elevation loops to routes with significant elevation gain.

Best mountain bike trails around Rancho Mirage

  • The most popular mountain…

Last updated: May 1, 2026

#1.

Cathedral City Loop

19.1km

02:00

570m

570m

The Cathedral City Loop is a moderate 11.9-mile mountain biking trail in the San Jacinto Mountains, offering challenging terrain and desert

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Moderate

26.6km

02:42

800m

800m

Hopalong Cassidy Loop is a challenging 16.5-mile mountain bike trail in Palm Desert, featuring significant elevation gain and desert views.

Moderate
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1

riders

Tackle the challenging 22.5-mile Art Smith and Cathedral Trail Loop, a difficult mountain biking route with 4337 feet of elevation gain.

Hard

Hard mountain bike ride. Very good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary.

Hard

Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary.

Moderate
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Popular around Rancho Mirage

Hiking around Rancho Mirage

Road Cycling Routes around Rancho Mirage

Cycling around Rancho Mirage

Running Trails around Rancho Mirage

Tips from the Community

Jamie S.
January 9, 2025, Palm Springs CV Link Bike Path (Demuth Park section)

This section of the somewhat disjointed Palm Springs CV Link Bike Path runs through Demuth Park section. This paved multi-use path is open to cyclist, joggers, and walkers, and offers nice views to the mountains over a golf course and other green spaces.

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At the intersection of Dunn Road, Hahn/Buena Vista trail and Art Smith Trail, you can find this abandoned tank with a nearby picnic area.

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Alex
November 7, 2023, Views of Palm Desert

Great views over Palm Desert City from the Herb Jefferies Trail. This area is usually best visited during the cooler months or the evening or sunrise.

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This park is a mountain bike trail and a hiking trail. There is little to no shade so be sure to go during cooler hours. Big Horn Sheep have been spotted here so be sure to keep an eye open!

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You will find an abandoned tank at the intersection between Dunn Road and Hahn/Buena Vista Trail.

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Even though it is a bidirectional trail, this section is mostly used downhill towards Cathedral City. It is a popular track in the area and part of the longer PCE to Cathedral City route.

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Alex
September 1, 2023, Palm Hills Hiking Trails

This area has many trails to follow as much as small loops up high into the Palm Hills. This area was saved from development in 2004 from a massive development of houses, hotels and a golf course on the site. Its managed by the Owist Land Trust.

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Alex
September 1, 2023, Palm Springs City Limit

The trail ends in a residential neighborhood right at the Palm springs City Boundary. This can also be a good starting point for the hikes trail on the other end.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How many mountain bike trails are available around Rancho Mirage?

There are 11 mountain bike trails around Rancho Mirage listed on komoot, offering a range of difficulties from easy to difficult. This includes 1 easy, 5 moderate, and 5 difficult routes.

What are the typical trail conditions for mountain biking in Rancho Mirage?

Mountain biking in Rancho Mirage is characterized by striking desert landscapes, rugged terrain, canyons, and rocky singletrack. You'll encounter gradual climbs, steep descents, and technical sections, often through desert brush and cacti. Some routes may also feature sandy washes.

Are there any family-friendly mountain bike trails in Rancho Mirage?

Yes, there is one easy mountain bike trail suitable for families. Additionally, the Palm Springs City Limit loop from Cathedral Canyon Vista is a moderate 17.38 km route that might be suitable for families with some biking experience.

What is the best time of year for mountain biking in Rancho Mirage?

The best time for mountain biking in Rancho Mirage is typically during the cooler months, from fall through spring (October to April). Summer temperatures can be very high, making rides challenging and requiring extra precautions like carrying plenty of water.

What kind of scenic views can I expect on the trails?

The trails offer breathtaking desert landscapes and stunning mountain views, particularly of the Santa Rosa Mountains. Routes like the Cathedral City Loop provide scenic vistas across the desert, while the Art Smith Trail offers panoramic views of the Coachella Valley.

Are there any challenging mountain bike trails for experienced riders?

Yes, Rancho Mirage offers 5 difficult mountain bike routes. The Art Smith and Cathedral Trail Loop is a challenging 36.3 km route with significant elevation gain, technical sections, and steep descents through rugged desert terrain. Another difficult option is the Palm Hills Hiking Trails – Palm Springs City Limit loop from Palm Springs International Airport.

What are some notable landmarks or attractions near the mountain bike trails?

While riding, you might encounter natural features like Palm Canyon and Andreas Canyon Oasis. Other nearby attractions include the Forever Marilyn sculpture and the Trailhead and Trading Post.

What do other mountain bikers say about the trails in Rancho Mirage?

The mountain bike routes in Rancho Mirage are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Reviewers often praise the varied terrain and the stunning desert and mountain scenery.

Are there any mountain bike trails that offer significant elevation gain?

Yes, many trails in Rancho Mirage feature significant elevation changes. For example, the Hopalong Cassidy Loop includes over 800 meters of elevation gain, offering expansive desert views from higher points.

Are there any specific safety considerations for mountain biking in Rancho Mirage?

Given the desert environment, it's crucial to carry plenty of water, especially during warmer months. The terrain can be rugged with desert brush and cacti, so appropriate protective clothing is advisable. Be mindful of technical sections and steep descents on more difficult trails.

Can I find circular mountain bike routes in Rancho Mirage?

Yes, many of the mountain bike trails in Rancho Mirage are designed as loops. Examples include the Cathedral City Loop and the Art Smith and Cathedral Trail Loop, allowing you to start and finish at the same point.

What is the longest mountain bike trail in the area?

The longest mountain bike trail listed is the Palm Hills Hiking Trails – Palm Springs City Limit loop from Palm Springs International Airport, which covers approximately 39.65 km (24.6 miles) and is rated as difficult.

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