The best MTB trails around Glen Ellen
4.6
(6)
89
riders
8
rides
Mountain biking around Glen Ellen offers routes through varied terrain, including mountain ridges, forested slopes, and open hillsides. The region is characterized by its prominent Sonoma Mountain, providing elevation changes and scenic viewpoints. Trails often navigate through oak woodlands and chaparral, offering a mix of challenging climbs and descents.
Best mountain bike trails around Glen Ellen
- The most popular mountain bike trail is North Sonoma Mountain Ridge Trail, an 8.8 miles (14.2 km) trail that takes 1 hour 39 minutes to complete, featuring ridge line views.
- Another top favourite among local mountain bikers is Bald Mountain Loop, a moderate 7.0 miles (11.2 km) path. This route explores the slopes of Bald Mountain, offering diverse forest and open terrain.
- Local mountain bikers also love the Sonoma Ridge and Mountain Trail Loop, a 12.4 miles (20.0 km) trail leading through mountain ridges and forested areas, often completed in about 2 hours 13 minutes.
- Mountain biking around Glen Ellen is defined by mountain ridges, oak woodlands, and varied elevation changes. The network offers options for different ability levels, including moderate and difficult routes.
- The routes in Glen Ellen are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.7 stars from 4 reviews. More than 80 mountain bikers have used komoot to explore Glen Ellen's varied terrain.
Last updated: October 10, 2026
5.0
(1)
8
riders
14.2km
01:39
490m
480m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
6
riders
11.2km
01:22
450m
450m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
5
riders
20.0km
02:14
660m
660m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
2
riders
18.0km
02:15
720m
720m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
17
riders
27.3km
02:18
430m
430m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary.
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Tips from the Community
Need to be in great physical shape to conquer this ride.
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Reaching up to an elevation of roughly 2,300 feet, Sonoma Mountain is no wimpy hill. It's a tough hike to the top, regardless of which route you use to get there, but the endless views are more than rewarding. There is a bench and a shade tree near the summit for good measure.
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The trail maintains a steady and consistent incline as it passes through a combination of shaded sections and open areas. Springtime is the prime season to explore, as the wildflowers are in full bloom and the weather provides an optimal temperature.
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Among the miles of fire roads and double-track trails in the area, there are also some sweet singletrack sections like this one. Pine Trail helps connect a couple of the fire roads in the area to each other and offers some meadow views of its own.
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Fern Lake is a modest reservoir bordered by grassy shores, encircled by trees and wild vegetation. Itβs an excellent spot for observing local wildlife. Located just beyond the boundary of Jack London State Historic Park, the lake also connects to one of the parkβs trails.
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The Ridge Trail is a popular trail in Trione-Annadel State Park. The flowy single track follows a ridge as it leads you up some switchbacks.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many mountain bike trails are there in Glen Ellen?
There are 7 mountain bike trails around Glen Ellen, offering a variety of experiences for different skill levels.
What are the difficulty levels of mountain bike trails in Glen Ellen?
The mountain bike trails in Glen Ellen primarily feature moderate routes, with 6 out of 7 trails falling into this category. There is also 1 difficult trail for experienced riders.
Are there any beginner-friendly mountain bike trails in Glen Ellen?
While there are no trails specifically rated as 'easy' in Glen Ellen, many of the moderate trails can be suitable for riders with some experience. For example, the Bald Mountain Loop is a moderate 7.0-mile (11.2 km) path that explores diverse forest and open terrain.
What is the longest mountain bike trail in Glen Ellen?
The longest mountain bike trail in Glen Ellen is the Ridge Trail loop from Lawndale, which spans approximately 30.9 km (19.2 miles) and is rated as difficult.
What can I see along the mountain bike trails in Glen Ellen?
Many trails offer scenic views and access to natural landmarks. You can find highlights like Red Mountain Summit, Schocken Hill, and a View of Napa Valley from Brushy Peaks. Some routes also pass by Fern Lake.
Are there any loop mountain bike trails in Glen Ellen?
Yes, several trails in Glen Ellen are loops. The Mountain and Sonoma Ridge Trail Loop is a moderate 18.0 km (11.2 miles) option, and the Ridge Trail loop from Lawndale is a challenging 30.9 km (19.2 miles) loop.
What do other mountain bikers enjoy most about mountain biking in Glen Ellen?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars from 4 reviews. Mountain bikers often praise the varied terrain, including mountain ridges, oak woodlands, and the challenging elevation changes that provide rewarding rides.
What kind of terrain can I expect on mountain bike trails in Glen Ellen?
You can expect varied terrain, including mountain ridges, forested slopes, and open hillsides. Trails often navigate through oak woodlands and chaparral, offering a mix of challenging climbs and descents, particularly around Sonoma Mountain.
How long do mountain bike trails in Glen Ellen typically take to complete?
Trail durations vary depending on the route and your pace. For example, the moderate Mountain and Sonoma Ridge Trail Loop typically takes around 2 hours 15 minutes, while the more challenging Ridge Trail loop from Lawndale can take over 3 hours.
Are there any advanced mountain bike trails near Glen Ellen?
Yes, for advanced riders, the Ridge Trail loop from Lawndale is rated as difficult. This 30.9 km (19.2 miles) trail offers significant elevation changes and a demanding ride.
Are there any interesting landmarks or places to explore near the trails?
Beyond the trails, you can explore the historic Sonoma Plaza, which is a short distance from Glen Ellen. The region also features various mountain peaks and viewpoints, such as Red Mountain Summit.
Most popular attractions around Glen Ellen
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