The best MTB trails in Lee Metcalf Wilderness

The Sheep Lake Trail offers a challenging mountain biking experience through the rugged Lionhead area near West Yellowstone, Montana. You'll navigate a very technical singletrack with tough climbs over large rocks and roots, especially in the lower, brushier sections. The reward for your effort is the stunning alpine scenery and the pristine waters of Sheep Lake, making the demanding 11.6-mile (18.7 km) ride with 2541 feet (775 metres) of elevation gain, typically completed in 2 hours and 19 minutes, truly worthwhile.

Planning your visit requires a bit of foresight. This trail is best ridden between July and September when conditions are most favorable. It's a remote area, so expect to find fewer crowds, but also be prepared for potential wildlife encounters; grizzly bears are known to inhabit these mountains, so riding with a partner and carrying bear spray is highly recommended. Parking is typically available at the trailhead, but always check local conditions before heading out.

What sets this trail apart is its raw, untamed character and the sense of accomplishment it provides. While Komoot rates it as moderate, the terrain often feels like a black diamond challenge, with most riders finding themselves hiking parts of the ascent. The descent, however, is often described as excellent, with the same rocks and roots that made the climb difficult providing a fun and technical ride down for advanced mountain bikers.

The Garnet Mountain Loop offers a demanding yet incredibly scenic mountain biking experience near Bozeman. You'll navigate a mix of forest service roads, ATV trails, and technical singletrack, with varied terrain that includes roots, rocks, and some seriously steep sections. The highlight is undoubtedly the panoramic views from the Garnet Mountain summit, especially from the historic fire lookout tower, which provides expansive vistas of the canyon and distant peaks.

This difficult 11.3-mile (18.1 km) route involves a substantial 2225 feet (678 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking around 2 hours and 10 minutes. It's best tackled between June and October due to snow conditions. Cell service can be unreliable in spots, so be sure to download your route and inform someone of your plans before you head out.

What sets this advanced mountain biking trail apart is its challenging nature and the rewarding views. The singletrack sections are free from motorcycles and ATVs, offering a more peaceful ride. The fire lookout tower, built in 1930, is a unique feature, and the trail is known for having one of the best downhills in the county, albeit a bit short.

Beehive Basin Trail #40 offers a rewarding mountain biking experience near Big Sky, Montana, taking you through a progression of stunning landscapes. You'll pedal through forested meadows and alongside Beehive Creek, eventually emerging into vibrant alpine wildflower meadows. The route culminates in spectacular subalpine and alpine views of jagged ridges and majestic peaks, providing a true high-alpine feel.

This moderate 5.6-mile (9.0 km) out-and-back route involves a significant 1162 feet (354 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking about 1 hour and 6 minutes to complete. The singletrack terrain features uneven sections with rocks and roots, and while the climb can be steep in places, the descent is often described as exhilarating. Note that biking is only allowed up to the Lee Metcalf Wilderness Boundary, and the trail is very popular, especially in summer, so be prepared to share with hikers.

Beyond the bikeable section, the trail continues into the wilderness area, leading to a beautiful glacial lake nestled in an alpine meadow, a feature that draws many hikers. This popularity means you'll encounter a lively atmosphere on the trail, particularly during peak season. The route also offers connections to other trails like the North Fork Tie #402 and North Fork Loop for those looking to extend their adventure.

The Lake Levinsky loop from Big Sky offers a taste of the region's diverse mountain biking, guiding you through varied terrain with stunning backdrops. You'll pedal past meadows bursting with wildflowers, through the shade of pine and aspen forests, and along sections that open up to panoramic views of the Spanish Peaks and Gallatin Range, with Lone Peak often dominating the horizon. Expect a mix of flowing descents and natural features like roots and rocks under your tires, making for an engaging ride.

This moderate 14.3-mile (23.0 km) route involves a respectable 1793 feet (547 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking around 2 hours and 10 minutes to complete. While specific trailhead parking for this exact loop isn't widely publicized, Big Sky is well-equipped with local bike shops for rentals and advice. The best times to ride are generally summer for vibrant flora or fall for the spectacular golden foliage, but always check local conditions before you go.

Big Sky stands out as a mountain biking hub due to its extensive and less crowded trail network, catering to various skill levels. This area is known for its exceptional natural beauty, offering a combination of high-alpine singletrack and forest trails. Many routes are multi-use, allowing you to connect different pathways for longer, customized adventures, and the local community is very supportive of the sport.