What Are the Best Mountain Biking Trails in Big Sky?
When it comes to mountain biking, Big Sky delivers a front-row seat to the thrill of the Rockies: alpine meadows, rugged peaks, and trails that wind through breathtaking wilderness. Whether you're after the cool hush of a forested climb or the adrenaline rush of a rocky descent, The Wilson Hotel puts you within minutes of the area's most celebrated rides for every skill level. Prepare to gear up, chase the trails, and finish with après-bike moments destined to be etched into your mountain memories.
Big Sky's Mountain Biking Trail Highlights
Set against the backdrop of the Spanish Peaks and Gallatin Range, many of Big Sky's rich network of trails start right near Town Center-The Wilson's backyard-so you can roll from your suite to the singletrack in minutes.
Beginner Trails
Hummocks Trail Loop (Easy, 2.6 miles): Rolling terrain through aspen groves, wetlands, and sunny meadows. Wildflowers brighten the route in summer, and shaded stretches offer a cool contrast.
South Fork Trail (Easy, 0.9 miles): A quick, quiet loop near Town Center with creekside views and birdlife. Perfect for a relaxed spin before exploring the rest of Big Sky on foot or bike.
Crail Ranch Trail (Easy, 2.6 miles): A historic ride through open meadow grasses alongside a small creek, with views of surrounding peaks. Benches and picnic spots invite you to linger.
Intermediate Trails
Uplands Trail Loop (Moderate, 2.1 miles): Gentle climbs through open fields with sweeping views of Big Sky and the Spanish Peaks.
Ralph's Pass & Ousel Falls Trail (Moderate, 6.1 miles): Forested singletrack and wildflower meadows connect the scenic Ousel Falls area with the Uplands network. Shady, flowing, and a local favorite.
Expert Trails
Cinnamon Mountain Trail (Hard, 8.1 miles): A sustained climb through pine forest and alpine meadows to a historic fire lookout at 9,231 feet. Panoramic views span the Spanish Peaks to Yellowstone.
Buck Ridge Trail (Hard, 19.9 miles): A full-day ride along a ridgeline with constant scenery and sustained challenge. Rugged, remote, and rewarding.
Lomna Lake via Wapiti Creek (Hard, 11.8 miles): A backcountry out-and-back to a pristine alpine lake. Expect creek crossings, steady climbing, and solitude.
Where To Rent Gear
Even the best trails need the right bike beneath you. In Big Sky, you'll find high-quality rentals and knowledgeable staff ready to match you with the perfect setup:
Gallatin Alpine Sports: Town Center location, with mountain bike rentals, helmets, and local trail advice from riders who know every switchback.
Christy Sports - Big Sky Mountain Village: Full-suspension mountain bikes and gear for tackling the resort's lift-served trails.
Black Tie Adventure Rentals: Concierge delivery service, bringing your bike directly to The Wilson so you can roll out and ride.
East Slope Outdoors: Locally owned outfitter offering mountain bike rentals, tune-ups, and expert guidance on exploring Big Sky's diverse terrain.
Seasonal Considerations & Signature Events
Big Sky's biking season runs from late spring to early fall, with peak wildflowers in July and crisp golden light in September. If you want to pair your trip with a major riding event, plan for the Big Sky Biggie-Montana's premier endurance mountain bike race-held each August. Whether you're racing or just soaking in the electric atmosphere, it's a weekend that celebrates the region's biking culture.
Après-Bike in Big Sky
Step off the trail and into Big Sky's Town Center, trading dirt and pine for music, food, and the hum of mountain life:
Refuel & Toast the Day: Post-ride, head to Tips Up, just steps from your room at The Wilson, where hearty pub fare, local beer, and live music set the tone for the evening. Then settle in at Block 3, also onsite, for elevated comfort food and craft cocktails. If you're exploring farther afield, stop by Beehive Basin Brewery, Ousel & Spur, or Olive B's for more local flavor.
Recover & Recharge: Stretch in the fitness center, soak in the hot tub, or take a refreshing dip in the outdoor pool.
Keep Exploring: Live music, art events, and small-town festivals keep the energy alive well after the trails go quiet. Explore what's on during your stay.
Make The Wilson Your Basecamp
Every great ride deserves an equally great landing spot. With The Wilson's Big Sky, Big Adventures package, you'll be ready for the trail and everything that follows:
- 2 Signature Cocktails at Tips Up: Perfect for post-ride toasts and swapping trail stories.
- $100 Visa Gift Card: Use it toward bike gear, trail supplies, or a guided ride to explore more of Big Sky.
Book your stay for select dates through December 21, 2025, and pair Big Sky's best riding season with the comforts of The Wilson.
The trails are waiting. Whether you're here for the gentle roll of a meadow path or the wild drop of a technical descent, Big Sky's biking scene delivers. Start your ride from the heart of Town Center, stay surrounded by mountain views, and let The Wilson Hotel be your gateway to Montana's high-alpine playground.