Dirt Candy – Smith Lake loop from Mount Telemark

If you're looking for a mountain biking route that truly delivers on flow and features, the Dirt Candy – Smith Lake loop from Mount Telemark is a difficult 24.9-mile (40.0 km) ride with 1374 feet (419 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking around 3 hours and 23 minutes. This extensive loop combines some of the region's most popular trails, offering a challenging yet incredibly rewarding experience for riders ready to push their limits.

What to expect on Dirt Candy – Smith Lake loop from Mount Telemark

This loop immerses you in the heavily forested Chequamegon Area, blending the modern flow of the Dirt Candy trail with other technical sections around Smith Lake. You'll encounter feature-rich singletrack, including well-designed berms, jumps, and even some large wooden features. The route also incorporates rock gardens, some natural and some manufactured, utilizing the area's abundant stone. As you ride through the former Mount Telemark ski hill, you might even spot old ski lift towers, adding a unique historical touch to the ride. Expect a varied terrain that keeps you engaged, making it ideal for intermediate to advanced riders who appreciate both gravity-fed flow and technical challenges.

Planning your visit

The Mount Telemark area, part of the extensive CAMBA network, is a fantastic starting point for this loop. While specific parking details aren't always highlighted, the area is well-established for mountain biking. The unique soil in this region allows for quick drainage, meaning trails are often open for riding even after rain, but it's always wise to check local conditions before heading out. This loop is best enjoyed when the trails are dry, allowing you to fully experience the flow and features.

Trail details

• Distance: 24.9 miles (40.0 km)
• Elevation gain: 1374 feet (419 metres)
• Difficulty: difficult
• Estimated time: 3 hours and 23 minutes