The best traffic-free bike rides in Caribou-Targhee National Forest

Our guide features 4 dedicated no-traffic gravel bike routes in Caribou-Targhee National Forest. These routes are designed to offer a peaceful and immersive experience away from vehicular traffic, utilizing forest roads and other suitable unpaved paths.

The no-traffic gravel bike trails in Caribou-Targhee National Forest offer a diverse experience. You'll encounter everything from forested, mountainous terrain with winding climbs and descents to more open, rolling hills and sagebrush plains. All routes in this guide are rated as difficult, featuring significant elevation changes and longer distances, such as the Bone Road's Rolling Hills loop from Ammon which covers over 80 km with nearly 1500 meters of ascent.

While the routes in this specific guide are rated as difficult, the Caribou-Targhee National Forest does offer other cycling opportunities that might be more suitable for families. The Ashton-Tetonia Rail Trail, for example, is a well-maintained, nearly 30-mile abandoned railroad grade that is generally flatter and offers amazing mountain views, making it a great option for a less strenuous family outing.

Generally, dogs are permitted on trails and forest roads within Caribou-Targhee National Forest, provided they are kept under control, often on a leash. It's always best to check specific regulations for each trail or area before you go, especially concerning wildlife safety, as the forest is home to grizzly bears, wolves, and other large animals. Ensure your dog is well-behaved and can handle the longer distances and varied terrain of routes like the Tunnel on trail loop from Pit Toilet.

The Caribou-Targhee National Forest is rich in natural beauty. While riding, you might encounter stunning mountain views, pristine lakes, and diverse ecosystems ranging from dense forests to sagebrush plains. Notable natural attractions in the broader area include the spectacular Upper Mesa Falls and the unique Striped Rock Formations. The Big Springs loop from Big Springs offers a chance to explore areas known for their natural springs and riparian environments.

Yes, all the no-traffic gravel bike routes featured in this guide are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the Park Entrance and Map loop from Chubbuck and the Park Entrance and Map – View of the Lake loop from Chubbuck, providing convenient options for your ride.

The best time for gravel biking in Caribou-Targhee National Forest is typically from late spring through early fall (May to October). During these months, snow has usually melted from lower elevations and forest roads, and the weather is generally pleasant. Always check local conditions, especially in spring when some higher elevation roads might still be closed due to snow, or in late fall when early snowfalls can occur.

Access points for these no-traffic gravel bike trails are typically found near forest service roads or designated trailheads. For instance, the Big Springs loop starts from Big Springs, and other routes may begin from areas like Chubbuck or Ammon. Parking is generally available at these starting points, often in designated forest service parking areas or along suitable road shoulders. Always be mindful of signage and regulations.

The no-traffic gravel bike trails in this guide vary in length, offering options for different endurance levels. The shortest route, Park Entrance and Map loop from Chubbuck, is approximately 35 km (22 miles), while the longest, Bone Road's Rolling Hills loop from Ammon, extends to over 80 km (50 miles). Most routes fall within this range, providing substantial rides.

While specific viewpoints are not always marked on every gravel route, the Caribou-Targhee National Forest is renowned for its panoramic vistas. Many routes will offer stunning views of the surrounding mountain ranges, including glimpses of the Tetons from certain areas. The View of the Tetons from Buffalo Soldier Trail is a notable highlight in the region, and you can expect similar expansive views along many of the higher sections of these gravel routes.