McCullough Hills Trailhead

The 601 Trail to 701 Trail Loop offers a textbook cross-country mountain biking experience through the high desert near Henderson, Nevada. You'll encounter varied terrain, from singletrack to 4WD road sections, including a lava rock boulder field on the 601 Trail and sustained climbs up Black Mountain on the 701 Trail. Sweeping vistas of the Sloan Canyon National Conservation Area, dotted with yuccas and cactuses, and views of the Las Vegas Valley provide a stunning backdrop for this dynamic ride.

This moderate 13.9-mile (22.3 km) loop, with 1114 feet (340 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes about 2 hours and 5 minutes. It's best ridden during the cooler months, from October through April, to avoid the desert's summer heat. The McCullough Hills Trailhead serves as the starting point, and while the trail is generally moderate, some semi-technical descents and sandy washes mean it's best suited for riders with good fitness and some experience.

Known for its variety of desert terrains and engaging features, this route is a favorite among local mountain bikers. The 601 Trail provides a solid warm-up before a fun, semi-technical descent, while the 701 Trail is celebrated for its fast and flowing sections. It's a great way to experience the remote feel of the desert while enjoying a challenging and rewarding ride.

The 601 Trail to 701 Trail Loop offers a fantastic mountain biking experience through the McCullough Hills and Sloan Canyon National Conservation Area. You'll navigate diverse desert terrain, from lava rock boulder fields to sandy washes, all while enjoying sweeping desert vistas and panoramic views of the Las Vegas Valley. The route is a moderate 13.8-mile (22.3 km) loop with 1289 feet (393 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking about 2 hours and 8 minutes to complete.

To make the most of your ride, plan your visit between October and April, when the temperatures are more forgiving. The trail system, accessible from the McCullough Hills Trailhead, is quite adaptable, allowing you to shorten or lengthen your route using various cross trails. Keep an eye out for rock markers, especially in sandy areas, to stay on the singletrack.

This "lollipop loop" is often described as a textbook cross-country trail, known for its varied terrain and engaging flow. The 701 section, in particular, stands out for its fast and flowy character, interspersed with short, punchy climbs. It's a popular route for those seeking a dynamic ride in a remote-feeling high desert environment.