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Routes
MTB trails
United States
Michigan
Oakland County

Troy

Routes
MTB trails
United States
Michigan
Oakland County

Troy

The best MTB trails around Troy

By Fede from komoot

·

Updated June 1, 2026

If you've ever tried to plan mountain biking around Troy, Michigan, you know how overwhelming the options can be. With so many trails and paths, it's tough to tell which ones are genuinely worth your time and effort, and which are just filler. That's where we come in. Our komoot community has ridden, mapped, and reviewed these routes, so we've curated this guide to save you the guesswork and point you straight to the trails worth your legs.

Mountain biking around Troy offers a fantastic mix of riverfront paths, forested areas, and varied terrain, making it a great spot for riders of all levels. You'll find everything from easy, flowing loops to more demanding climbs, often winding through nature preserves and along scenic waterways like the Clinton River. The area is particularly enjoyable from spring through fall, when the trails are typically dry and the Michigan landscape is at its best.

If you only do one route, we'd start with the Clinton River Trail – Features loop from Sterling Heights Nature Preserve. At 15.2 miles (24.4 km) with 288 feet (88 m) of elevation gain, it's a moderate ride that offers a great feel for the region's character. For something a bit easier and family-friendly, the Dinosaur Hill Nature Preserve – Dinosaur Hill loop from Rochester Hills is a fantastic choice, covering 19.3 miles (31.0 km) through varied terrain. With more than 600 mountain bikers having explored Troy with komoot, you're in good company.

If you only do 3 of these routes

  1. 1

    Clinton River Trail – Features loop from Utica High School

  2. 2

    Clinton River Trail – Features loop from Sterling Heights Nature Preserve

  3. 3

    Clinton River Trail – Features loop from Utica

Compare these routes at a glance

Trail

Distance

Elevation

Difficulty

Clinton River Trail – Features loop from Utica High School

15.1 km

50 m

Hard

Clinton River Trail – Features loop from Sterling Heights Nature Preserve

24.4 km

90 m

Moderate

Clinton River Trail – Features loop from Utica

16.1 km

40 m

Moderate

Harding Green Space loop from Rochester

19.6 km

130 m

Easy

Dinosaur Hill Nature Preserve – Dinosaur Hill loop from Rochester Hills

31.0 km

110 m

Easy

Clinton River Bridge – Features loop from Utica High School

31.6 km

60 m

Moderate

Mt. Sheldon – Nice view on Creek loop from Rochester Hills

41.4 km

240 m

Moderate

Features loop from Utica

10.3 km

40 m

Moderate

Rochester River Walk – Pines Trail loop from Opdyke / South (NB)

51.5 km

230 m

Hard

Pines Trail – Dinosaur Hill Nature Preserve loop from Leach Road Trailhead Parking Lot

48.5 km

250 m

Hard

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1.

Clinton River Trail – Features loop from Utica High School

15.1km

01:09

50m

50m

The Clinton River Trail – Features loop from Utica High School offers a dynamic mountain biking experience, weaving through urban green spaces and alongside the Clinton River. You'll encounter a mix of surfaces, from pavement to challenging crushed stone and even some singletrack sections, making it a varied ride. The route provides natural preserve scenery and accessible urban green spaces, keeping the journey engaging for its 9.4 miles (15.1 km).

This difficult 9.4-mile (15.1 km) loop, with 173 feet (53 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes about 1 hour and 9 minutes to complete. While generally flat to gently rolling, some sections are described as "mountain bike rough" and may require advanced riding skills. It's a multi-use trail, so be prepared to share the path with hikers and runners, especially during peak times.

Following an abandoned railroad corridor, this trail is part of a larger network that connects to other recreational trails, offering extensive riding options. The Friends of the Clinton River Trail actively maintain and improve the path, contributing to its high ratings within the Komoot community. It's a great option for experienced riders looking for a challenging and diverse ride near Utica, Michigan.

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2.

Clinton River Trail – Features loop from Sterling Heights Nature Preserve

24.4km

01:37

90m

90m

The Clinton River Trail – Features loop from Sterling Heights Nature Preserve offers a delightful escape into a wooded, riverside environment, perfect for a moderate mountain biking adventure. You'll navigate 15.2 miles (24.4 km) of cross-country singletrack and multi-use paths, gaining a modest 288 feet (88 metres) in elevation over approximately 1 hour and 36 minutes. The trail winds along the scenic Clinton River, providing a peaceful atmosphere where you might spot deer, turtles, and waterfowl, giving you a true sense of being in nature within the city.

Planning your ride is straightforward, with convenient parking available at locations like River Bends Park or 39850 Edison St in Sterling Heights. The trail system is generally accessible from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. during the warmer months and until 8 p.m. in cooler seasons. This makes it easy to fit a ride into your schedule, whether you prefer an early morning spin or an afternoon excursion.

This route is part of the larger Clinton River Trail network, connecting to Michigan's Iron Belle Trail and the Great Lake-to-Lake Trails Route #1, highlighting its significance in regional connectivity. The mountain biking trails are actively maintained by local associations like CRAMBA-IMBA, ensuring good conditions for riders. Despite its relatively short singletrack sections, many consider it an underrated and fun option for cross-country mountain biking in Sterling Heights.

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3.

Clinton River Trail – Features loop from Utica

16.1km

01:07

40m

40m

The Clinton River Trail – Features loop from Utica offers a delightful mountain biking experience, winding alongside the picturesque Clinton River and through serene wooded areas. You'll encounter a mix of singletrack and paved sections, providing a varied terrain that keeps the ride engaging. The route is generally flat to gently rolling, making it a moderate 10.0-mile (16.1 km) journey with 126 feet (38 metres) of elevation gain, typically completed in about 1 hour and 7 minutes.

To plan your visit, look for access points at local parks like Heritage Park or Dodge Park, which are integrated into the broader Clinton River Trail system and usually offer parking and amenities. This loop is well-suited for intermediate mountain bikers seeking a pleasant ride without extreme technical demands. Checking trail conditions, especially after wet weather, is always a good idea to ensure the best experience.

This trail system is highly regarded by the community, known for its integration of nature preserves and urban green spaces. You might spot local wildlife like deer, turtles, and waterfowl along the riverbanks. The Clinton River Trail also connects to other recreational paths, expanding your riding options if you're looking for a longer adventure in the Utica area.

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4.

Harding Green Space loop from Rochester

19.6km

01:28

130m

130m

The Harding Green Space loop from Rochester offers a refreshing mountain biking experience through lush greenery and tranquil ambiance. You'll navigate primarily singletrack trails, winding through expansive forests, past scenic bluffs, and alongside riverfront features, all within a preserved woodland setting. This easy 12.2-mile (19.6 km) route, with 437 feet (133 metres) of elevation gain, is designed to be completed in about 1 hour and 27 minutes, providing a pleasant escape into nature.

Planning your visit is straightforward, as the Harding Green Space is readily accessible, particularly via the Clinton River Trail. While the core mountain biking loop is a compact 0.9-mile singletrack, it's perfect for a quick ride or for combining with other outdoor pursuits in the area. This makes it a great option for those seeking a convenient and engaging ride without needing extensive planning.

This trail stands out as a dedicated mountain biking option within Rochester Hills, a recognized hub for the sport in Michigan. Its natural features, including riverfront access and bluffs, offer a scenic backdrop for your ride. The compact nature of the loop also makes it an excellent choice for beginner mountain bike trails or for riders looking to fit a quality session into a busy day.

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5.

Dinosaur Hill Nature Preserve – Dinosaur Hill loop from Rochester Hills

31.0km

01:43

110m

110m

The Dinosaur Hill Nature Preserve – Dinosaur Hill loop offers a delightful escape into nature, winding through lush woodlands and open meadows. This easy mountain biking route provides a serene experience, perfect for those who appreciate tranquil beauty and a relaxed pace. You'll find yourself immersed in picturesque scenery, with opportunities to observe local wildlife along the way, making it a charming ride for all skill levels.

Planning your visit to the Dinosaur Hill Nature Preserve is straightforward, as access to the trails is free, and no permits are needed for mountain biking. The preserve is a 16.9-acre sanctuary, making it an ideal spot for a casual ride. Parking is available on-site, and the easy nature of the trails means you can enjoy this 19.3-mile (31.0 km) loop, with its gentle 371 feet (113 metres) of elevation gain, in about 1 hour and 43 minutes, without much fuss.

The preserve gets its unique name from local children who, during neighborhood development, dubbed a piled-up hill of excavated dirt "Dinosaur Hill" due to its resemblance to a sleeping dinosaur. This name stuck when the preserve was established, adding a whimsical touch to its history. Beyond the trails, the preserve also offers educational opportunities, making it a community hub for learning about nature.

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6.

Clinton River Bridge – Features loop from Utica High School

31.6km

02:05

60m

60m

The Clinton River Bridge – Features loop from Utica High School offers a dynamic mountain biking experience, weaving through urban green spaces and along the scenic Clinton River. You'll encounter a mix of terrain, from riverside paths to nature preserves, with the "Features loop" living up to its name by incorporating elements designed to keep the ride engaging. Expect views of the river, possibly some wildlife, and a chance to ride through areas with beginner-friendly features like small log jumps, making it a great option for skill progression.

Starting from Utica High School, this trail is easily accessible for riders in the area. While the 19.6-mile (31.6 km) loop with 208 feet (63 metres) of elevation gain is rated as moderate and takes about 2 hours and 4 minutes to complete, it's suitable for various fitness levels. Parking near Utica High School is generally available, but as with any popular trail, an early start is recommended to avoid crowds and fully enjoy the ride.

This loop is part of the larger Clinton River Trail system, which is highly rated by the mountain biking community for its accessibility and varied terrain. The inclusion of "Features" in its name highlights its appeal to riders looking for more than just a flat path, offering a taste of technical elements without being overly challenging. It's a fantastic way to experience the natural beauty and recreational opportunities near Utica, Michigan, connecting you to a broader network of trails.

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7.

Mt. Sheldon – Nice view on Creek loop from Rochester Hills

41.4km

02:50

240m

240m

The Mt. Sheldon – Nice view on Creek loop offers a diverse mountain biking experience through the hilly, historic grounds of Stony Creek Metropark. You'll find a mix of singletrack and doubletrack, winding through a pleasant woodland environment with plenty of curvy downhill sections and short, steep climbs. The highlight is undoubtedly the "Great View from Mt. Sheldon", providing a scenic reward for your efforts on this engaging route.

This moderate mountain biking trail covers 25.7 miles (41.4 km) with 796 feet (243 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking around 2 hours and 50 minutes to complete. The Shelden Trails are known for their progressive design, offering optional technical features for advanced riders while also providing beginner-friendly sections like the "GROM loop". Be sure to check trail conditions, as they may close during muddy periods to protect the paths.

Part of the larger Stony Creek Metropark, this trail system is a gem for mountain bikers in the Rochester Hills area. It caters to a wide range of skill levels, making it a great spot for both new riders and those looking for more advanced routes. The Clinton River Area Mountain Bike Association (CRAMBA) actively maintains the trails, ensuring a well-kept and enjoyable ride for everyone.

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8.

Features loop from Utica

10.3km

00:43

40m

40m

The Features loop from Utica offers a highly-rated mountain biking adventure, weaving through natural preserves and along the Clinton River. Expect a dynamic ride with sections like the Blue Loop in River Bends Park featuring sweeping turns, small rollers, and even a "Lazy River section" with flowing turns among trees. This moderate 6.4-mile (10.3 km) route, with its 119 feet (36 metres) of elevation gain, provides an engaging experience that typically takes about 42 minutes to complete.

Planning your visit to these Utica mountain biking trails is straightforward, as the Blue Loop, a key part of the system, is open year-round. While some sections might require advanced riding skills, the overall network caters to various abilities. It's always a good idea to check local conditions before you go, especially if you're looking for the best time to mountain bike the Clinton River Trail.

Recognized as the most popular mountain bike trail in the area, the Features loop from Utica is highly regarded by the Komoot community, boasting an average score of 4.5 stars. The trail system provides a diverse mix of riverside paths, nature preserves, and urban green spaces, making it a standout option for mountain biking in Utica, Michigan.

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9.

Rochester River Walk – Pines Trail loop from Opdyke / South (NB)

51.5km

03:21

230m

230m

The Rochester River Walk – Pines Trail loop from Opdyke / South (NB) offers a challenging mountain biking experience through diverse landscapes. You'll traverse riverine areas and parklands, enjoying a mix of canal-side paths and wooded trails. The route provides opportunities to explore the scenic Genesee River and its gorge, making for a varied and engaging ride that will keep you on your toes.

Planning your visit requires a good level of fitness and advanced riding skills, as this is a difficult 32.0-mile (51.5 km) loop with 750 feet (229 metres) of elevation gain, taking approximately 3 hours and 20 minutes. While the specific starting point of Opdyke / South (NB) isn't widely known, access to the broader Genesee Riverway Trail is available through various park entrances and parking areas in the Rochester, Michigan region. Be prepared for a demanding ride.

This loop is a favorite among local mountain bikers in Rochester, MI, known for its extensive parklands and riverine trails. It's a great option if you're looking for advanced mountain biking in Rochester, Michigan, offering a substantial workout and a chance to explore the region's natural beauty. The trail's popularity within the Komoot community speaks to its quality and the rewarding experience it provides for those up to the task.

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10.

Pines Trail – Dinosaur Hill Nature Preserve loop from Leach Road Trailhead Parking Lot

48.5km

03:19

250m

250m

Embark on a diverse mountain biking journey through the Rochester Hills area, combining the flowy singletrack of "The Pines" with the serene paths of Dinosaur Hill Nature Preserve. You'll navigate through mature hardwoods, past fern meadows, and alongside a creek, experiencing a mix of intermediate technical sections and more accessible, tranquil routes. The changing scenery keeps the ride engaging, offering a blend of natural beauty and trail challenges.

Plan your ride starting from the Leach Road Trailhead Parking Lot, a convenient access point for this extensive loop. While Dinosaur Hill Nature Preserve is free and open during normal business hours, it's crucial to check local trail conditions for "The Pines" mountain biking sections, as singletrack can close due to wet weather. Be sure to carry ample water and snacks for this long outing.

This difficult 30.2-mile (48.5 km) mountain biking loop, with 834 feet (254 metres) of elevation gain, is designed for riders seeking a substantial challenge, taking approximately 3 hours and 19 minutes to complete. It uniquely connects a popular mountain biking trail known for its technical features like boardwalks and rock gardens with the more gentle, educational landscape of a nature preserve, providing a comprehensive tour of the region's varied trails.

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Tips from the Community

Andrus
June 22, 2025, Forest Path in River Bends Park

At over 850 acres, River Bends Park is big enough to have something for everyone. Within its boundaries you'll find picnic areas, hiking and biking trails, a disc golf course, playgrounds, volleyball courts, and more. Come for a walk and you might end up staying all day.

0

0

Tyler Sanders
June 8, 2025, Paint Creek Trail

This approximately 9-mile-long trail follows Paint Creek, offering a well-maintained wide hard-packed dirt surface. As the first non-motorized rail trail in the area, it has become one of the most popular trails around.

0

0

Abe
June 8, 2025, Clinton River Trail - Waterfront section

Nice trail half gravel / half paved along the Clinton River. During the dark hours you still get "some" light from the city and surrounding neighborhoods.

0

0

Sue
June 8, 2025, Harding Green Space

Harding Green Space is a beautiful 26.8-acre natural preserve tucked between Harding Avenue and the Clinton River with scenic bluffs, hiking trails, dense woodlands, and a variety of local wildlife. it's an ideal spot for a quiet refuge in the heart of the city.

0

0

mtm05005
May 12, 2025, Woodall Path

The Woodall Path is a paved trail that takes you through Woodall Neighborhood Park. It is a loop trail that connects on the east side with the Clinton River Hike and Bike Trail.

0

0

Abe
November 21, 2024, Dinosaur Hill

Nice place to take a short brake

0

0

Abe
October 26, 2024, Paint Creek Trail: Dutton to Tienken

Beautiful trail to run, you can see the leaves falling during the fall. Although snow and ice accumulates during the winter.

0

0

Scott
March 6, 2024, Dinosaur Hill Nature Preserve

The preserve's serene environment, featuring woodlands, meadows, and a winding stream, offers a welcome respite from the hustle and bustle of city life. The preserve offers various educational programs and activities for all ages, including nature walks, field trips, workshops, and summer camps.

1

0

Frequently Asked Questions

How many mountain bike trails are available around Troy?

There are over 40 mountain bike trails around Troy, offering a diverse range of experiences for cyclists. These include a mix of easy, moderate, and difficult routes.

What kind of terrain can I expect on mountain bike trails near Troy?

The terrain around Troy is varied, featuring riverfront paths, forested areas, and hills. You'll find a mix of natural scenery, with some routes offering significant elevation changes and others providing more gentle rides. The region is shaped by the Hudson River and its tributaries, contributing to its diverse landscape.

Are there any easy mountain bike trails suitable for beginners in the Troy area?

Yes, there are 11 easy mountain bike trails around Troy. These routes are generally shorter and have less elevation gain, making them suitable for beginners or those looking for a more relaxed ride.

Are there any challenging mountain bike trails for experienced riders?

Absolutely. For experienced riders seeking a challenge, there are 14 difficult mountain bike trails around Troy. Routes like Pines Trail – Mt. Sheldon loop from Leach Road Trailhead Parking Lot, which is 24.1 miles long with significant elevation changes, offer a demanding experience. Another challenging option is the Pines Trail – Dinosaur Hill loop from Sterling Heights Nature Preserve, covering 33 miles with notable climbs.

What do other mountain bikers enjoy most about the trails in Troy?

The mountain bike trails around Troy are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.2 stars from over 57 reviews. Riders often praise the blend of scenic riverfront paths, forested sections, and varied terrain that provides options for different skill levels.

Are there any family-friendly mountain biking options in Troy?

While specific family-friendly mountain bike trails are not explicitly detailed in the guide, the presence of easy routes suggests options suitable for families. The Clinton River Trail – Features loop from Sterling Heights Nature Preserve, a 15.8-mile moderate trail, offers natural scenery along the river that could be enjoyable for families with some biking experience.

Can I find mountain bike trails with scenic views or landmarks near Troy?

Yes, the region offers scenic views, particularly along the Hudson River. While mountain biking, you might encounter natural preserves and forested areas. For specific points of interest, consider exploring highlights like Paint Creek Trail or the Dinosaur Hill Nature Preserve, which are popular attractions in the area.

Are there any waterfalls accessible near the mountain bike trails in Troy?

Troy and its vicinity are known for several waterfalls. While not directly on the mountain bike trails listed, you can find breathtaking waterfalls at Poestenkill Gorge Park (Mount Ida Falls) and Barberville Falls. These natural features offer picturesque settings for a post-ride visit.

Are there any circular mountain bike routes around Troy?

Yes, many of the mountain bike routes around Troy are designed as loops. For example, the Bridge Over Paint Creek – Pines Trail loop from Auburn Highlands is a 30.9-mile route that takes you through forested sections and over water features, providing a complete circular experience.

What are the options for parking near mountain bike trails in Troy?

While specific parking details for every trail are not provided, many routes start from designated trailheads or nature preserves, which typically offer parking facilities. For instance, the Pines Trail – Mt. Sheldon loop starts from the Leach Road Trailhead Parking Lot, indicating available parking at that location.

Are there any mountain bike trails that connect to larger trail networks?

Yes, Troy's cycling infrastructure includes the Uncle Sam Bike Trail, which connects to the Mohawk-Hudson Bike-Hike Trail (MHBHT). The MHBHT is part of New York's Empire State Trail, offering access to a much larger network for extended rides. You can find more information about the Uncle Sam Bike Trail on the City of Troy website.

What is the best time of year to go mountain biking in Troy, NY?

The best time to go mountain biking in Troy, NY, generally aligns with spring, summer, and fall when the weather is mild and trails are dry. While specific seasonal considerations for Troy's mountain bike trails are not detailed, the region experiences all four seasons, so conditions can vary. Always check local weather and trail conditions before heading out.

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