Zion National Park: Best Mountain Bike Trails Near Springdale
Views from the JEM Trail - 📸 by Wild Within Us
Nestled in the rugged beauty of southern Utah, Zion National Park and its surrounding areas offer some of the most iconic and thrilling mountain bike trails in the United States. Whether you're a seasoned mountain biker or a beginner looking to explore on two wheels, Zion Cycles has you covered with top-quality bike rentals and shuttle services. Here, we delve into some of the must-ride trails near Springdale, providing you with all the details you need to plan an unforgettable biking adventure.
1. Gooseberry Mesa
Family enjoying Gooseberry Mesa on our Trek Rail e-mountain bikes.
Distance from Springdale: 21 miles | 30 minutes by car
Trail Type: Singletrack
Recommended Bike: All-mountain (Trek Fuel 29”) or cross-country bike (Trek Remedy)
Just a short drive from Springdale, Gooseberry Mesa is renowned for its world-class slickrock trails, offering panoramic views of Zion National Park and the surrounding mesas. The trail system includes a combination of technical and intermediate routes, making it perfect for riders looking to test their skills. The terrain is a mix of slickrock and dirt paths, featuring undulating surfaces and some steep sections. Historically, Gooseberry Mesa was developed by local trail enthusiasts in the 1990s and has since become a staple in the mountain biking community.
At Zion Cycles, we recommend an all-mountain or cross-country bike for this trail to handle both the challenging and smoother sections effectively. Don’t forget to check out our bike rentals for the perfect ride.
2. JEM Trail
JEM trail gets everyone totally stoked!
Distance from Springdale: 17 miles | 26 minutes by car
Trail Type: Singletrack
Recommended Bike: Hardtail (Trek Roscoe) or full-suspension trail bike (Trek Remedy)
The JEM Trail is one of the most popular trails in the Hurricane Valley, known for its flowy nature and stunning backdrop. It offers something for everyone, from breathtaking downhill sections to rolling terrain that caters to beginners and advanced riders alike. The trail traces the Virgin River and then descends into a fun, fast section with minimal technical challenges. The JEM Trail holds historical significance as part of the larger Hurricane Cliffs Trail System, used by pioneers and settlers in the 19th century.
For an optimal experience on the JEM Trail, Zion Cycles suggests a hardtail or full-suspension trail bike, which provides sufficient comfort and control. Check out our selection here.
3. Guacamole Trail
📸 by Shuntavi
Distance from Springdale: 16 miles | 25 minutes by car
Trail Type: Singletrack
Recommended Bike: All-mountain bike (Trek Fuel 29”)
The Guacamole Trail is a lesser-known gem that sits atop a mesa with dense juniper and pine forests. The trail itself mixes technical rock sections with fast dirt singletrack. Riders will enjoy a variety of obstacles, including rock slabs, small drops, and tight turns, which make it an exhilarating ride. The Guacamole Trail was originally used by cattle ranchers and has been adapted into a mountain biking trail that offers a taste of genuine backcountry riding.
An all-mountain bike is ideal for the varying terrain of the Guacamole Trail, providing the necessary versatility and durability. Explore our range of all-mountain bikes here.
4. Wire Mesa Loop
Distance from Springdale: 7 miles | 15 minutes by car
Trail Type: Singletrack
Recommended Bike: Cross-country (Trek Remedy)
Wire Mesa Loop is a relatively new addition to the area’s trail network, offering a mix of technical and scenic riding. The trail circles the mesa, providing stunning views of Zion National Park and the surrounding area. It features a combination of slickrock and packed dirt, with sections that challenge your technical skills and others that allow you to enjoy a more relaxed ride.
For Wire Mesa Loop, a cross-country or trail bike will help you navigate both the challenging and smooth sections of the trail. Zion Cycles offers a variety of options that suit this terrain perfectly. Find your ideal bike here.
Your Adventure Starts at Zion Cycles
No matter which trail you choose, Zion Cycles is here to enhance your mountain biking experience with professional-grade bikes and convenient shuttle services. From Gooseberry Mesa to Wire Mesa Loop, each trail offers a unique adventure that showcases the natural beauty and historical richness of the Zion area. Remember, safety is paramount, so always wear a helmet, carry sufficient water, and be prepared for changes in weather conditions.
Ready to hit the trails? Visit Zion Cycles for all your biking needs, from expert advice and top-notch equipment to shuttle services that make accessing these incredible trails easier. Start planning your next mountain biking adventure here and experience the best that Zion has to offer!
