Think Mammoth Lakes is only for hiking and skiing? Think again. With an impressive range of biking trails from relaxed, scenic paths to adrenaline-pumping descents, this mountain town is a playground for cyclists of all skill levels. Even better, Mammoth’s riding routes pair perfectly with standout food and drink stops that make every mile worth it.
From leisurely e-bike cruises to expert level downhill runs, here are four must ride biking adventures in Mammoth Lakes, each matched with a delicious reward at the finish.
Lakes Basin Path – Skadi
Ease into your cycling adventures with a scenic ride along the Lakes Basin Path, a rewarding 5-mile one-way route that leads from town into Mammoth’s iconic Lakes Basin. Ideal for beginners and e-bike riders, the trail winds past rushing creeks, towering pines, and postcard worthy alpine views. Turn around at Twin Lakes or continue through the forest toward Horseshoe Lake. While the grades are gentle, the ride still packs over 1,000 feet of elevation gain, just enough to feel accomplished.
Your reward awaits at Skadi, one of Mammoth’s most celebrated dining destinations. Chef and proprietor Ian Algerøen delivers inventive fine dining inspired by seasonal ingredients, with a rotating menu that keeps locals and visitors coming back. Expect beautifully plated dishes, thoughtful flavour combinations, and a curated beer and wine selection. All served in a warm, intimate setting that feels effortlessly refined.
Mammoth Rock Trail – East Side Bake Shop (Morning) + Devils Creek Distillery (Afternoon)
Start your day at East Side Bake Shop to fuel your ride. This local gem serves up the ultimate comfort food with fresh-baked sourdough loaves, hot mini quiches, and sweet treats like blackberry jam bread pudding and dark chocolate spice cookies. Pair your favourites with a cup of organic local brew from Mt. Whitney Coffee Roasters.
The Mammoth Rock Trail is a 5.3-mile one-way moderate ride that blends history, scenery, and a touch of technical challenge. Beginning off Sherwin Creek Road, the trail climbs through a sandy wash into the forest, following a historic route once traveled by mule trains during the gold-mining era. Riders are rewarded with sweeping views of the Sherwin Range and a close-up look at Mammoth Rock, a striking 250-million-year-old limestone and marble formation. The route finishes at upper Old Mammoth Road, take it slow on the return, as the trail is shared with hikers and equestrians.
After the ride, toast your effort at Devils Creek Distillery. Founded in 2017 by the Mendel family, this high-altitude craft distillery produces small batch whiskeys using alpine snowmelt and locally sourced grains. Stop by the tasting room on weekends or book a private tasting, and don’t forget to grab a bottle as these spirits ship exclusively within California.
Uptown/Downtown – Shelter Distillery
Starting in The Village, intermediate riders can tackle the Uptown Trail, a 10 mile out and back singletrack that offers smooth flow and just the right amount of challenge. The trail winds through fragrant red fir forests, skirts Hwy. 203, passes the historic Earthquake Fault, and loops back toward North Village via the Downtown Trail. This is a fun, versatile ride for anyone looking to combine scenic forest riding with just the right amount of challenge.
From the Downtown Trail, roll straight into The Village for the perfect refuel at Shelter Distilling. Known for its mountain inspired spirits distilled on site, Shelter crafts cocktails that range from crisp and refreshing to bold and spicy. Pair your drink with their eclectic menu, featuring everything from poke tostadas, smashburgers, harissa shrimp tacos, and a bright mandarin orange salad. It’s the perfect pit stop, whether you’re celebrating miles logged or just soaking up the mountain vibe.
Bullet Downhill – The Eatery at Mammoth Brewing Company
For riders who crave a challenge, Bullet Downhill delivers in full. This 2.3-mile one-way steep, technical descent at Mammoth Mountain Bike Park (typically open late spring to early fall) throws everything at you. Known for the large rock garden at the top, this ride also delivers drops, tight turns, and high-speed sections—demanding precision, skill, and focus from start to finish. It’s a true test piece for advanced mountain bikers and has hosted a number of national-calibre downhill races.
After conquering the course, head to The Eatery at Mammoth Brewing Company for a well-earned feast. The Damn Good Mammoth Burger is a must, best enjoyed alongside one of the brewery’s locally crafted beers or their house made root beer if you’re skipping alcohol. Bring your full-face helmet and pads, this trail is no joke, but the bragging rights and the burger are worth it.
Whether you’re cruising lakeside paths or charging downhill lines, Mammoth Lakes proves that the best bike rides don’t end at the trailhead they end at the table!
Picture credit: Mammoth Lakes Tourism
