The best MTB trails around Orem

The Provo River – Provo River Parkway loop offers a dynamic mountain biking experience, blending the smooth, paved multi-use path with access to rugged dirt trails. You'll follow the Provo River, enjoying continuous water views before the landscape transitions to dramatic canyon walls and vistas of Mount Timpanogos. Keep an eye out for the impressive Bridal Veil Falls, a notable landmark easily reached from the parkway, adding a scenic highlight to your ride.

This route, starting near 800 E @ 985 N, is a moderate 25.5-mile (41.0 km) journey with 2046 feet (624 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking around 2 hours and 49 minutes. While the paved parkway is easy and family-friendly, the connecting singletrack and doubletrack trails offer intermediate to advanced technical challenges. Parking is available at the popular 800 E @ 985 N access point, making it a convenient starting location for exploring the canyon.

The Provo River Parkway is renowned for its versatility, serving as a crucial connector to a network of more demanding mountain biking trails within Provo Canyon. This allows riders to customize their adventure, from a leisurely cruise to a more intense technical ride. The trail's consistent river views and dramatic canyon scenery make it a highly scenic option, providing a diverse natural experience within easy reach of Orem.

The View of Provo Canyon loop from Overflow Parking 2 offers a rugged mountain biking adventure through a landscape defined by towering cliffs and the winding Provo River. This difficult 14.1-mile (22.8 km) route, with its 2535 feet (773 metres) of elevation gain, promises a dynamic ride. You'll navigate varied dirt and gravel terrain, encountering numerous ups and downs, rapid turns, and short, steep pitches. The effort is well worth it for the spectacular vistas of Mount Timpanogos and Cascade Mountain that unfold along the way. Expect a challenging 2 hours and 38 minutes on the saddle.

Access this mountain biking loop from an overflow parking area located near the cemetery, just past the Orem Bonneville Shoreline Trailhead. While the area is generally accessible, it's wise to check for local race events during the summer, as these can impact trail access or create busier conditions. Autumn is particularly stunning for its vibrant fall colors, making it a prime season for this ride, though spring and early summer also offer excellent conditions before the peak heat sets in.

This trail is part of a diverse network in Provo Canyon, known for its variety of experiences from technical singletracks to paved parkways. The area is rich in natural beauty, with opportunities to spot wildlife like deer, elk, and eagles. The canyon's unique geology, carved by the Provo River, provides a dramatic backdrop to your ride, making it a memorable outing for those seeking a challenging and scenic mountain biking experience.

The Brush Mountain loop offers a dynamic mountain biking adventure, blending challenging climbs with thrilling descents across varied terrain. You'll navigate a mix of singletrack, doubletrack, and fire roads, with the route often featuring exciting creek crossings and passing through natural settings reminiscent of a national forest. The journey provides a great sense of accomplishment as you conquer the ascents and enjoy the rewarding downhills.

This moderate 13.7-mile (22.1 km) mountain biking trail involves a substantial 2144 feet (654 metres) of elevation gain, typically requiring about 2 hours and 22 minutes to complete. It's best suited for riders with some experience who are comfortable with sustained climbs and technical descents. Always check local trail conditions before you go, and be sure to pack enough water for the duration of your ride.

Known for its diverse trail network, the Brush Mountain area is a popular spot for mountain bikers seeking a good workout and varied riding experiences. The significant elevation changes and mix of trail types make it a standout option, offering a backcountry feel without being overly remote. It's a solid choice if you're looking for mountain biking near Brush Mountain that delivers both challenge and scenic beauty.

The Mountainbike loop from 1600 N @ 695 E is a challenging ride that delivers on stunning vistas, particularly the gorgeous mountain scenery looking west across the valley. This 15.6-mile (25.1 km) route is primarily singletrack, featuring both rocky sections and an extremely steep switchbacking climb that will test your endurance. You'll find the downhill segments exhilarating, but be prepared for loose gravel and fast, steep descents.

Planning your visit is relatively easy, as the trailhead is conveniently located close to town. You can start from a bike path near a YMCA and skate park, following clear directions through the Hulen Meadows subdivision to the trailhead. Parking is available at a T-intersection before the final approach. The trail is designed for one-way mountain bike traffic, ridden counter-clockwise, which helps manage the flow and ensures a good descent.

This trail is considered a "premium trail" that all mountain bikers should experience, especially if you're looking for advanced mountain biking trails near 1600 N @ 695 E. Despite its proximity to town, it offers a substantial workout with 2201 feet (671 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking around 2 hours and 36 minutes to complete. It's a great option for experienced riders seeking a difficult, rewarding loop.