First Timer's Guide
Welcome to Mammoth Bike Park
Get ready to dive into the ultimate mountain biking adventure. Whether you're totally new to this or just want to brush up on your skills, this guide will get you rolling. From safety tips to gear picks, we’ve got your back. Discover the best trails, essential gear, and everything you need to ride like a pro. Plus, get insider tips on navigating Mammoth Bike Park and making the most of your day on the mountain. Let’s hit those trails and find your flow.
LET'S GET ACQUAINTED
Sitting pretty as California's highest lift-served bike park, we’ve got it all—from stunning mountain views to fantastic terrain. We’re talking elevations from 8,100 feet (about 2.47 km) to a jaw-dropping 11,053 feet (about 3.37 km) and a massive 3,500 acres to explore. With 84 miles (135 km) of single track spread across 53 trails, there's something for every rider.
ZONES THAT SET US APART
Discovery Zone
Trails: Adventure, Discovery, Explorer, Discotech, Richter, Skills Park
Summit Zone
Trails: Off the Top, Skid Marks, The Eliminator
Pro Zone
Trails: Velocity, Chain Smoke, Twilight Zone, Midtown
Mountain Center: Located in The Village, the Mountain Center is surrounded by the best shops and restaurants and serves as the hub of the town shuttle system. The Village at Mammoth is the perfect place to start and end your day. Head to the Mountain Center on the Plaza for tickets and rentals, and check out The Gear Up for everything you need to hit the trail. From here, you can access the bike park via the Bike Park Shuttle or by trail via Uptown (intermediate).
Main Lodge: About 4 miles up Minaret Road from The Village, Main Lodge offers gondola access straight to the summit and access to the beginner area, Discovery Zone. Need gear? Mammoth Sports at Main Lodge has the latest to elevate your game.
Navigating Mammoth Bike Park is all about progression. Start on our easiest trails, move through intermediate and advanced routes, and eventually conquer expert and pro-level challenges. Knowing the trail ratings makes all the difference. Whether you're easing in or going full throttle, our trails cater to every level of skill and stoke. Find your flow and hit the trails with confidence.
EASIEST
Perfect for beginners to the Bike Park. Expect smooth, wide trails with gentle grades. You'll encounter some natural features like small rocks and roots, along with enhanced sections like bridges and small rollers.
- Beginner/novice mountain biker
- Knowledge of shifting and braking
- Wider, smoother trails
- Suitable for all types of mountain bikes: full suspension recommended
- Knee pads and elbow pads recommended
- Helmet required; half-shell helmet (covers the head) recommended
| Trail Name |
|---|
| Adventure Trail |
| Big Ring (2-Way) |
| Discovery Trail |
| Downtown |
| Gopher Trail (2-Way) |
INTERMEDIATE TRAILS
Ideal for riders comfortable on beginner trails. These trails feature varied surfaces, including rough sections on steeper terrain. Look out for natural obstacles such as roots and rocks, plus enhanced features like larger corners, rollers, and medium jumps.
- Solid bike handling skills required
- Competent braking, shifting and turning skills necessary
- Steep slopes, rocks, loose soil and narrower trails
- Full-suspension, cross-country or all-mountain bike recommended
- Knee pads and elbow pads recommended
- Helmet required; half-shell helmet (covers the head) recommended
| Trail Name |
|---|
| Beach Cruiser |
| Bearing Straits (2-Way) |
| Electric Avenue |
| Brake Through Connector |
| Brake Through (2-Way) |
| Discotech |
| Explorer Trail |
| Gravy Trail (2-Way) |
| Juniper |
| Lakes Trail |
| Lincoln Express (2-Way) |
| Manzanita |
| Midtown |
| Mountain View |
| Off the Top |
| Paper Route (2-Way) |
| Shortcut (2-Way) |
| Skills Park |
| Timber Ridge |
| Up & Over (2-Way) |
| Uptown |
ADVANCED TRAILS
Designed for riders who've mastered intermediate trails. These trails include large freeride features like jumps, drops, and gaps requiring advanced skills. Natural challenges such as rock gardens and challenging root sections also await, along with significant raised structures.
- Requires advanced mountain biking skills
- Considerable obstacle avoidance
- More technical descents; constructed features including wall rides, jumps, drops and bridges
- All-mountain bike with 6" of travel recommended
- Full pads (worn on shins, knees, and elbows) recommended
- Helmets required; full face helmet (covers head and has a chin bar for added protection) recommended
| Trail Name |
|---|
| Boomerang |
| Bridge the Gap (2-Way) |
| The Eliminator |
| Lower Skid Marks |
| Richter |
| Ricochet |
| Roma's Road |
| Seven Bridges |
| Shotgun |
| Sunset Strip |
| White Bark |
EXPERT TRAILS
For expert riders seeking steep, challenging terrain. Requires advanced jump skills and precise bike handling at high speeds. Designed for those comfortable on advanced trails.
- Elevated risk of injury or death from falling – highly skilled riders only
- Rough to very rough surfaces with steep, technical and fast descents
- Large rocks, roots, constructed and natural features throughout
- State-of-the-art downhill bike with at least 8" of travel strongly recommended
- Full pads (worn on shins, knees, and elbows) highly recommended
- Helmets required; full face helmet (covers head and has a chin bar for added protection) highly recommended
| Trail Name |
|---|
| Flow |
| Follow Me |
| Jill's Jumps |
| Pipeline |
| Smooth Operator |
| Toll Road |
| Twilight Connector |
| Twilight Zone |
| Upper Skid Marks |
| Velocity DH |
Pro TRAILS
The pinnacle of technical riding at Mammoth Bike Park. Features the most challenging terrain with expert-level freeride elements. Mastery of all bike skills, including navigating the largest gaps and mandatory jump features, is essential.
- Elevated risk of injury or death from falling – highly skilled riders and pros only
- Highly variable surfaces with very steep, technical descents, mandatory drops, near vertical faces and obstacles requiring constant obstacle avoidance
- No ride-arounds
- State-of-the-art downhill bike with at least 8" of travel strongly recommended
- Full pads (worn on shins, knees, and elbows) highly recommended
- Helmets required; full face helmet (covers head and has a chin bar for added protection) highly recommended
| Trail Name |
|---|
| Bullet DH |
| Chain Smoke |
| DC-10 |
| Shock Treatment |
| Techno Rock |
| Velociraptor Connector |
| Velociraptor |
WE PUT SAFETY FIRST
Downhill mountain biking is all about fun, but safety comes first. Here are a few tips to keep you cruising smoothly:
- Ride at your own pace and take it easy.
- The right-hand brake is the RIGHT brake to use most of the time.
- Steady pressure when braking is better than on/off or slamming the brakes.
- Altitude matters. Mammoth is about 8,000 to 11,000 feet above sea level. Drink water and chill out when needed.
- Your eyes steer the bike. Look where you want to go and not where you don't.The faster you go, the further ahead you should be looking on the trail.
SMART STYLE
Make sure the fun doesn't stop and shred smart by following these steps each time you enter the Bike Park:
PRE-RIDE: Check your bike and gear before hitting the trails.
RE-RIDE: Start slow, get a feel for the trail.
FREE-RIDE: Once you're comfortable, let loose and have fun!
Townie eBikes
Available to rentfrom the Mountain Center.
Hardtail Bikes
Available to rent from both the Mountain Center and Tamarack Bike & Paddle.
Full Suspension Trail Bikes
Available to rent from Main Lodge.
Full Suspension eMTBs
Available to rent from the Mountain Center.
Enduro & Downhill Demo Bikes
Available to rent from both Main Lodge and the Mountain Center.
SCORE THE BEST DEALS ON BIKES
Images do not reflect entire rental inventory; bikes may vary. View Recommendation Chart.
Once you’ve got an idea of where you want to ride, our rental shop has a fleet of top-of-the-line mountain bikes for all ages and abilities. Forget the hassle of hauling your own gear—our experts will set you up with a bike that’s just right for your body type and riding style. We even have class 1 pedal-assist eBikes for that extra kick. With our top-notch rentals, you'll be ready to rock the trails with confidence. Choosing the right bike is the key to shredding the trails like a pro. Whether you're cruising the easy paths or taking on the gnarly terrain, the right bike makes all the difference. Think about the trails you want to conquer, and we’ll help you find your perfect match.
SUIT UP FOR THE RIDE
Before you hit the trails, make sure you’re decked out in the right gear. Safety and comfort are key to having a blast while you ride. Here’s a quick rundown of what you need to stay protected and ready to shred:
Helmets
Gloves, Pads & Body Armor
Closed-Toed Shoes
Gear Available: Don’t have your own? No worries! We’ve got you covered. You can rent helmets and pads at any rental location or shop Mammoth Sports at the Adventure Center or The Gear Up in the village.
Stay Trailside
Stay close to the action with our convenient lodging options, ensuring you're never far from the excitement. Whether you prefer a cozy cabin, a luxurious resort, or a family-friendly condo, we've got accommodations to suit every style and budget. Enjoy the convenience of being minutes away from the trails, so you can maximize your riding time and fully immerse yourself in the Mammoth experience. Relax and recharge in comfort, and be ready to hit the park refreshed each day.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
Rental Locations & Hours
Pick up a rental bike an head straight to the trails from any of our convenient trail-side locations that offer mid-day bike adjustments, as well as free overnight bike storage for multi-day rentals.
Mountain Center in The Village
The Mountain Center Bike Rental Shop is closed for the season.
Main Lodge
The Main Lodge Bike Rental Shop is closed for the season.
Tamarack Bike & Paddle
Tamarack Bike & Paddle is closed for the season.
BIKE PARK SAFETY
With hazards existing on the trails, be cautious and use common sense.
- Wear protective gear and clothing – helmets are required.
- Ride with a partner and pick trails that suit your ability level.
- Follow trail etiquette rules: Uphill traffic has the right of way on two-way trails and on downhill trails, the rider in front has the right of way.
- Be aware of the high altitude environment – the sun is more intense and your body fatigues faster. Stay hydrated and keep an eye on changes in weather, including thunderstorms.
- Know and follow the Mountain Biker's Responsibility Code – it is your responsibility.
MOUNTAIN BIKER'S RESPONSIBILITY CODE
Mountain biking involves the risk of serious injury or crash. Your knowledge, decisions and actions contribute to your safety and that of others. ALWAYS:
- STAY IN CONTROL. You are responsible for avoiding objects and people.
- KNOW YOUR LIMITS. Ride within your ability. Start small and work your way up.
- PROTECT YOURSELF. Use an appropriate bike, helmet and protective equipment.
- INSPECT AND MAINTAIN YOUR EQUIPMENT. Know your components and their operation prior to riding.
- BE LIFT SMART. Know how to load, ride and unload safely. Ask if you need help.
- INSPECT THE TRAILS AND FEATURES. Conditions change constantly; plan and adjust your riding accordingly.
- OBEY SIGNS AND WARNINGS. Stay on marked trails only. Keep off closed trails and features. Ride in the direction indicated.
- BE VISIBLE. Do not stop where you obstruct a trail, feature, landing or are not visible.
- LOOK OUT FOR OTHERS. Look both ways and yield when entering or crossing a road or trail. When overtaking, use caution and yield to those ahead.
- COOPERATE. If involved in or witness to an incident, identify yourself to staff.
Know and Follow the Code. It is Your Responsibility.
Safety Checklist
The trails at Mammoth Bike Park are rough and demanding on both the bike and the body. Before riding always inspect your equipment or have it checked by a qualified bike mechanic.
- Helmets are required for all mountain bike trails. Before heading out make sure yours fits correctly and is not damaged.
- Assess safety pads for fit and any damage. Make sure you are wearing the appropriate pads for you skill level and that coincide with the difficulty of the trails you're looking to ride.
- Inspect bike frame for cracks, damaged or dented areas.
- Ensure you have sufficient brake pads to stop your bike while descending.
- Front and rear axles (skewers) should be tight.
- Headset and stem must be secure with no looseness or play.
- Check that your tires are in good condition, with no tears or cuts on the rolling surface or sidewall.
- Handle bar and handle grips must be tight and unable to spin. Seat and seat post need to be fastened securely.
If you are not completely familiar with your bike and its various components, these checklist items, or if you have any doubt as to your bike's condition, we highly recommend you check with a qualified bike mechanic for further advice. Visit The Gear Up in the Village for full-service repairs and tuneups.
We recommend a full face helmet, knee and elbow pads, sturdy shoes, gloves, eye protection & sunscreen. All protective items are available to rent.
What ability levels do you have trails for?
Our trail network offers something for beginners through professionals. Starting with the Discovery Zone and ending with Velociraptor, there truly is something for everyone.
Can my kids ride the park?
We have industry leading beginner terrain in our Discovery Zone and offer world-class instructors as part of our lesson program.
What type of bike do I need?
Most of our trail network is well-suited for a current enduro (5"+ of travel) full suspension mountain bike. However, some of our Expert and Pro-Line trails require a full DH (8" of travel) mountain bike.
Do I ride down the ski runs?
No. We created a trail network designed specifically for mountain biking. Many of our trails do intersect or follow ski runs though. Ever wonder what Stump Alley or Broadway look like without any snow? Now's your chance.
What types of bikes are allowed?
We welcome various bikes on our mountain bike trails, including mountain bikes, class 1 eMTBs*, and adaptive bikes.
However, the following are not permitted:
- Bikes with child carriers or similar attachments
- Tandem bikes
- Unicycles
- Class 2 & 3 eMTBs
- Dirt bikes / combustion engine bikes
- OneWheels
- Scooters
*Class 1 eMTBs must not have a throttle and cannot reach assisted speeds higher than 20 MPH. Riders on eMTBs are required to follow the same rules as those on traditional mountain bikes.
Can I get a tuneup or bike repair?
Yes, walk-ups are welcome for bike repairs and tuneups at The Gear Up, located on the second floor of the Mountain Center.
What's the longest trail in the bike park?
Off the Top starts on top of the mountain and when linked to Beach Cruiser and Downtown finishes at the Village, almost 15 miles and 3,000 vertical feet later.
Do you offer any discounts?
24/25 Ikon Pass holders get one FREE Bike Park ticket and save 20% on additional tickets. Show your 1-day Mammoth ticket at a Snow Summit or Snow Valley ticket window for a $39 day ticket. Or show your BBMR pass at a Mammoth ticket window for a discounted Mammoth ticket. Holiday restrictions apply July 4–7 and August 30–September 2, 2024.
