The best MTB trails in Juneau City and Borough

Embark on the Treadwell Ditch Trail for a moderate mountain biking adventure spanning 26.2 miles (42.2 km), with an elevation gain of 1900 feet (579 metres). You can expect to complete this route in about 3 hours and 13 minutes. As you ride, you'll be immersed in a vibrant old-growth rainforest, surrounded by towering spruce trees and a consistent sea of green. The trail crosses numerous powerful streams, often via picturesque bridges, offering a truly scenic experience.

This popular multi-use route is fully bikeable from end to end, thanks to recent renovations, making it accessible for many. You can bring your dogs along for the ride, and the trail's good drainage in certain sections means it holds up well even in rainy conditions. Consider starting your ride earlier in the day to fully enjoy the natural beauty and avoid any potential crowds.

The Treadwell Ditch Trail follows a historic aqueduct system within the vast Tongass National Forest, providing a unique glimpse into Juneau's past. This route connects directly to the legacy of the historic Treadwell Gold Mine, offering a blend of natural beauty and historical significance. It stands out as a testament to both the region's rich mining history and its preserved natural environment.

The West Glacier Trail offers an easy mountain biking experience through Tongass National Forest, covering 4.1 miles (6.6 km) with an elevation gain of 447 feet (136 metres). You can expect to complete this route in about 39 minutes, enjoying a varied terrain that includes both singletrack and hardened doubletrack sections. As you ride, you will encounter natural ground surfaces, which may feature rock staircases, slippery rocks, and muddy patches, all leading to impressive views of the Mendenhall Glacier. You will pass through areas characterized by willow, cottonwood, and alder trees, sometimes skirting older Sitka Spruce and Western Hemlock forests. The journey culminates at a rock outcrop, providing panoramic views of the glacier. This trail is a great option if you are looking for a relatively quick and accessible ride with scenic rewards.

Planning your visit to the West Glacier Trail is straightforward, as parking is generally available at the trailhead. This location also serves as a starting point for other activities, such as raft and kayak trips on Mendenhall Lake, making it a convenient hub. While the route is rated easy overall, be prepared for some sections that can be more challenging due to the natural terrain, including rock staircases and potential mud. The trail is multi-use, popular not only for mountain biking but also for e-biking and hiking, so you can expect to share the path with others.

This trail is notable for its direct connection to the Mendenhall Glacier, offering unique insights into the landscape's transformation due to glacial recession. As you ride, you will be traversing areas below the glacier trimline, which provides a distinct ecological perspective. The West Glacier Trail stands out in the region for its combination of accessibility and dramatic glacial scenery, making it a compelling choice for those interested in both outdoor activity and natural history. It provides a tangible experience of the powerful forces that have shaped this part of Tongass National Forest.

Embark on an easy mountain biking adventure along the Herbert Glacier Trail, covering 8.9 miles (14.4 km) with a gentle climb of 322 feet (98 metres). You can expect to complete this route in about 1 hour and 13 minutes. The trail begins by winding through a lush spruce and hemlock forest, following the Herbert River. As you get closer to the glacier, the scenery changes to scrub trees and rocky moraines, leading you to a direct view of the impressive Herbert Glacier.

When planning your ride, know that the Herbert Glacier Trail has two distinct parts. The first 3.5 miles are easy and well-maintained, perfect if you are new to mountain biking or prefer a relaxed ride. However, the final 1.5 miles become significantly more technical, rocky, and narrow, often requiring you to walk your bike through challenging sections to reach the viewpoint. Remember not to approach the glacier face itself due to the risk of falling ice.

Located in the vast Tongass National Forest near Juneau, Alaska, the Herbert Glacier Trail offers a unique journey through different ecological zones. You will see firsthand how the landscape transforms from dense forest to areas where plants are reclaiming land after glacial retreat. This route provides a clear view of the Herbert Glacier, showcasing a dynamic natural environment.

Embark on an easy mountain biking adventure along the East Glacier Trail, a 4.0-mile (6.4 km) route that guides you through a lush temperate rainforest. You will gain 611 feet (186 metres) in elevation, offering rewarding views of the Mendenhall Glacier from a safe distance as you ascend. Keep an eye out for the East Glacier Trail Loop Trail — West Side waterfall and a unique staircase nestled within the mossy trees and numerous waterfalls that define this scenic ride, which typically takes around 36 minutes to complete.

When planning your visit, remember that the area is known bear country, so always stay aware of your surroundings and take necessary precautions. It is always a good idea to check local conditions before heading out to ensure a smooth experience. Convenient parking is usually available near the Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center, providing easy access to the trailhead for your ride.

This trail stands out for its immersive journey through a vibrant temperate rainforest ecosystem, showcasing beautiful mossy trees and the constant presence of water. The opportunity to mountain bike through such a unique environment, combined with the distant glacier views, makes it a notable option for a quick yet impactful outdoor escape. It offers a distinct perspective on the Mendenhall Glacier Recreation Area's natural beauty.

Embark on a moderate mountain biking journey along the East Glacier Loop and Nugget Creek Trail, a route that spans 8.3 miles (13.4 km) with a total elevation gain of 1339 feet (408 metres). You can expect to complete this ride in about 1 hour and 23 minutes, winding through dense forests that feel almost magical with their moss-covered trees and numerous waterfalls. As you ride, you'll be treated to spectacular views of the Mendenhall Glacier and the surrounding valley, making for a truly rewarding experience.

To begin your adventure, head to the Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center, as the trail is easily accessible from there. Remember to bring enough water for your ride, as there are no water sources available along the route itself. It's also wise to be mindful of local wildlife, particularly bears, which are often active during the early morning and evening hours.

This trail offers more than just a great workout; it provides a unique glimpse into the area's natural and historical landscape. You'll pass overlooks offering prime views of Nugget Falls, and if you keep an eye out near Nugget Creek, you might even spot some historical mining equipment. This blend of natural beauty and a touch of history makes the East Glacier Loop and Nugget Creek Trail a distinctive ride in the Tongass National Forest.

Embark on an easy mountain biking adventure along the Peterson Lake Trail, a route that winds for 8.2 miles (13.3 km) through the vibrant rainforest of Tongass National Forest. You will gain 731 feet (223 metres) in elevation over approximately 1 hour and 16 minutes of riding. Expect a dynamic terrain featuring muddy sections, slippery planks, and intensely rooted paths, particularly after the first two miles which trace an old mining tram route. As you pedal, you will pass through lush Sitka spruce, ferns, and blueberry bushes. The journey culminates at the serene Peterson Lake, offering peaceful views of floating pond lilies and the rustic Peterson Lake Cabin.

The Peterson Lake Trail offers relatively easy access, making it a convenient choice for your next ride. Its lower elevation also means a longer accessible season compared to higher alpine trails in the region. While there are no specific permit requirements for the trail itself, the popular Peterson Lake Cabin is a public-use cabin that can be rented if you wish to extend your stay. Always consider the mountain bike terrain conditions when planning your visit, as some sections can be rugged.

This trail provides a unique opportunity to experience a rainforest environment on two wheels. The initial two miles follow an old mining tram route, hinting at the area's past. Beyond the natural beauty, the trail's connection to the Peterson Lake Cabin adds a historical and recreational layer, making it a notable destination within the Tongass National Forest for both its scenery and its amenities.

Embark on an easy mountain biking adventure along the Windfall Lake Trail, a 7.8-mile (12.6 km) route that takes about 1 hour and 4 minutes to complete. You will gain a gentle 295 feet (90 metres) in elevation as you follow the Herbert River, winding through a dense forest of Sitka Spruce and Western Hemlock. The trail offers picturesque views leading to Windfall Lake, providing a serene experience for riders of all skill levels.

When planning your visit, be aware that an additional mile may be added to the start of your ride due to a gravel road closure at Glacier Highway. The trail can also become quite muddy during the summer months, so prepare your gear accordingly for potentially wet conditions. This route is ideal for a relaxed outing, but checking local conditions before you head out will ensure a smoother experience.

As you ride, keep an eye out for local wildlife, including swans, geese, and great blue herons that frequent the lake area. The trail also passes by a sockeye fishery, adding another interesting element to your journey through the Tongass National Forest near Juneau, Alaska. This makes the Windfall Lake Trail a great option for those who appreciate both nature and a straightforward ride.