The best MTB trails around Boulder City
67
riders
14
rides
Mountain biking around Boulder City offers diverse terrain within a unique desert landscape. The region is characterized by rugged, arid mountains, lava rock formations, and expansive views of Lake Mead and the surrounding valleys. These features contribute to the Boulder City mountain bike trail difficulty terrain elevation, providing a range of experiences from technical descents to scenic, flowing paths. Many of the best mountain biking routes Boulder City are found within the renowned Bootleg Canyon Mountain Bike Park.
Best mountain bike trails around Boulder City
- The most popular mountain bike trail is Mother & Ernie's Epic and Girl Scout Loop, a 8.8 miles (14.2 km) trail that takes 1 hour 25 minutes to complete. This moderate route offers varied terrain within the Bootleg Canyon area.
- Another top favourite among local mountain bikers is Par None, IMBA, and POW loop — Bootleg Canyon, an easy 3.9 miles (6.3 km) path. This route provides an accessible experience through the desert landscape of Bootleg Canyon.
- Local mountain bikers also love the Lower and Middle Lakeview loop — Bootleg Canyon, a 2.9 miles (4.7 km) trail leading through desert terrain with views, often completed in about 26 minutes.
- Mountain biking around Boulder City is defined by desert landscapes, lava rock mountains, and views of Lake Mead. The network offers options for different ability levels, from easy loops to challenging technical descents.
- The guide includes highly-rated routes that showcase the best of the region's landscape. More than 70 mountain bikers have used komoot to explore Boulder City's varied terrain.
Last updated: April 24, 2026
4
riders
14.2km
01:26
310m
310m
This 8.8-mile mountain biking loop in Bootleg Canyon offers moderate difficulty, technical terrain, and expansive desert views.
3
riders
4.70km
00:26
80m
80m
This moderate 2.9-mile mountain biking loop in Bootleg Canyon offers lake views and desert scenery, taking about 26 minutes to complete.
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2
riders
6.28km
00:36
110m
110m
This easy 3.9-mile mountain biking loop in Bootleg Canyon offers desert scenery, views of Lake Mead, and a mix of flowy and technical trails
1
riders
6.99km
00:42
140m
130m
An easy 4.3-mile mountain biking loop in Bootleg Canyon, offering desert scenery and views of the Las Vegas Valley and Lake Mead.
1
riders
6.34km
00:38
140m
140m
Experience moderate mountain biking on the 3.9-mile West Leg and Girl Scout Loop in Bootleg Canyon, featuring striking desert landscapes.
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Tips from the Community
Such a great selection of trails to send all day cruising around. One of our favourite trails was desert cruise. A green trail that takes you back down to the city, floating and flowing away!!
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Boulder City is a great place to stay for easy access to the Bootleg trails. You can use the dreamy bike paths to head up to the trails.
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Of the three Lakeview trails (Upper, Middle, and Lower), Lower Lakeview trail is the easiest. It is often done in combination with the other two Lakeview trails to make a nice loop. Lower Lakeview trail starts from the main parking area, riding south for about .5 miles before taking a left toward Lake Mead. The trail descends, dropping you in and out of undulating, roller coaster like washes before heading up a steep, loose hill to the Middle and Upper Lake View Trail junction.
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Girl Scout is a popular intermediate mountain bike trail that connects the lower part of Bootleg Canyon to the upper. This trail can be ridden both directions and is popular in both directions, so be aware of others as you ride.
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The Inner Caldera loop is quite similar to the main Caldera loop, but is is much shorter and more challenging. This rocky trail is great for intermediate-advanced riders looking for rocky terrain in a great desert setting with the occasional glimpse of Lake Mead.
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Bootleg Canyon is a great bike park just next to Boulder City and close to Las Vegas. You will find an extended network of trails for mountain biking as well as hiking. With lots of options to combine different trails, beautiful lake views and mountains of lava rock, Bootleg Canyon is considered to have some of the best mountain biking in the country and is open all year long and also a nice night-riding destination.
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The Caldera Loop is a great trail within Bootleg Canyon Park close to Boulder City. You can ride either the outer or the inner loop or combine the two for a bigger adventure. The Inner Caldera Loop, though, is one of the few loops that is not a combination of several different trails. You can expect typical desert scenery and great views towards Boulder City and Las Vegas.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many mountain bike trails are available around Boulder City?
There are over 15 mountain bike trails detailed in this guide for the Boulder City area, primarily located within the renowned Bootleg Canyon Mountain Bike Park. These trails offer a diverse range of experiences for riders.
What is the best time of year to go mountain biking in Boulder City?
The best time to visit for mountain biking in Boulder City is during spring and early fall. While riding is possible year-round, summer temperatures often exceed 100 degrees Fahrenheit, making it less comfortable. Winter can also be a good option, offering cooler conditions.
Are there any easy mountain bike trails suitable for beginners in Boulder City?
Yes, Boulder City offers several easy trails perfect for beginners. For example, the Par None, IMBA, and POW loop — Bootleg Canyon is an accessible 6.3 km path through the desert landscape. Another great option is the Caldera Loop — Bootleg Canyon, which is around 7 km long and also rated easy.
What kind of terrain can I expect on the mountain bike trails in Boulder City?
The terrain around Boulder City is characterized by rugged, arid mountains, distinctive lava rock formations, and expansive desert landscapes. You'll encounter everything from flowing singletrack to technical descents, with many trails featuring steep, exposed, and rocky sections, especially in Bootleg Canyon.
Are there any family-friendly mountain bike trails in Boulder City?
While many trails in Bootleg Canyon cater to intermediate to advanced riders, there are easier options that families with some biking experience might enjoy. Trails rated as 'easy' like the Par None, IMBA, and POW loop — Bootleg Canyon or the Caldera Loop — Bootleg Canyon could be suitable for families looking for a less challenging ride.
What are some scenic mountain bike trails with good viewpoints in Boulder City?
Many trails in Bootleg Canyon offer stunning views. The Lower and Middle Lakeview loop — Bootleg Canyon, as its name suggests, provides excellent views of Lake Mead and the surrounding desert. Riders often enjoy breathtaking panoramas of the Las Vegas Valley and Lake Mead from various points within the park.
What are some notable landmarks or attractions near the mountain bike trails in Boulder City?
Beyond the trails, Boulder City is close to several significant attractions. You can visit the iconic Hoover Dam, explore the historic Railroad Tunnel Trail within Lake Mead National Recreation Area, or enjoy the views from the Lake Mead Overlook. There are also natural features like Gold Strike Hot Springs and ancient Petroglyphs nearby.
Are there any loop mountain bike trails in Boulder City?
Yes, many of the mountain bike trails in Boulder City are designed as loops, offering a continuous riding experience. Examples include the Mother & Ernie's Epic and Girl Scout Loop, the Par None, IMBA, and POW loop — Bootleg Canyon, and the Lower and Middle Lakeview loop — Bootleg Canyon.
What equipment is recommended for mountain biking in Boulder City?
Given the challenging and rocky terrain, especially in Bootleg Canyon, full-suspension mountain bikes are highly recommended. Full riding gear and helmets are also advised, particularly for the demanding downhill sections. Always carry plenty of water, especially during warmer months.
Is there parking available at the mountain bike trailheads in Boulder City?
Yes, Bootleg Canyon Mountain Bike Park, the primary mountain biking area, is easily accessible and offers parking at its trailheads, such as the Bootleg Canyon Trailhead. This makes it convenient to start your ride.
Are there any shuttle services for mountain bikers in Bootleg Canyon?
Yes, Bootleg Canyon Mountain Bike Park offers shuttle services on weekends. These shuttles transport riders to the top of the trails, allowing them to focus on the exhilarating downhill runs without the climb.
What do other mountain bikers enjoy most about the trails in Boulder City?
Mountain bikers frequently praise the diverse terrain and stunning desert scenery of Boulder City. The region's unique lava rock mountains and expansive views of Lake Mead and the Las Vegas Valley are often highlighted. Riders also appreciate the range of trails, from flowing paths to technical descents, primarily within the well-regarded Bootleg Canyon Mountain Bike Park.
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