5.0
(2)
157
riders
13
rides
If you've ever tried to plan mountain biking in the Mc Cullough Range, you know how overwhelming the options can be. With so many trails crisscrossing this unique desert landscape, it's tough to figure out which routes are genuinely worth your time and effort, and which are just filler. That's exactly why we're here. We've tapped into komoot's community, who have ridden, mapped, and reviewed these trails, to bring you a curated shortlist of the very best.
Mountain biking in…
Last updated: May 10, 2026
5.0
(1)
20
riders
22.3km
02:06
340m
340m
The 601 Trail to 701 Trail Loop offers a textbook cross-country mountain biking experience through the high desert near Henderson, Nevada. You'll encounter varied terrain, from singletrack to 4WD road…
5.0
(1)
19
riders
22.3km
02:08
390m
390m
The 601 Trail to 701 Trail Loop offers a fantastic mountain biking experience through the McCullough Hills and Sloan Canyon National Conservation Area. You'll navigate diverse desert terrain, from lava…

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15.2km
01:32
340m
340m
The Bootleg Canyon: Ernie's and Cams Run Loop offers a diverse mountain biking experience through the rugged Mojave Desert landscape. You'll navigate primarily rocky, loose, and dry singletrack, with sustained…
7
riders
Easy mountain bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Suitable for all skill levels.
7
riders
18.3km
01:52
420m
420m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
6
riders
10.8km
01:02
220m
220m
Easy mountain bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Suitable for all skill levels.
5
riders
The McCullough Hills Trailhead loop offers a fantastic mountain biking escape into the pristine Mojave Desert, providing a unique blend of rugged terrain and expansive vistas. As you ride this…
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Natural point to start a ride, lots of different loop options from here.
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Earnie's is great, sustained, rocky climb to an amazing viewpoint just east of the main Bootleg Canyon area. The trail starts at the back of the Railroad Pass Casino and after a short distance on a paved trail (the River Mountain Loop Trail) you cross some railroad tracks and head up into the desert on rocky, oftentimes loose, singletrack. As you ride, be on the lookout for bighorn sheep, which are abundant here and, despite their size, really blend in with the landscape! The climb gets steeper and steeper as you go, ending at a great viewpoint where you can then either continue onto Mother, or descend back on Earnie's or Oh Sh*t.
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The 701 Loop is on the far outer edge of the (somewhat maze-like) McCullough Hills trail system. This smooth trail deep in BLM land takes you up and over small rolling hills in a remote-feeling high desert environment. Although the climbing is relatively moderate, there are a few hills that are fairly steep and drop quickly. Out on the 701 Loop, there are some of best views in the McCullough Hills system; to the west, the mountains of the Sloan Canyon National Conservation Area loom above you, surrounded by rocky cliffs and rolling hills dotted with yuccas and cactuses. Due to the sheer amount of trails and BLM roads, navigating out here can be tricky, but one advantage of this is that you can very easily make routes of almost any length and difficulty; you can cut down the 701 loop, or almost any other loop, using one of the many cross trails. This is especially nice to keep in mind in the warmer months as the sun can be relentless in the open, exposed desert!
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The McCullough Hills Trail runs between the trailhead at East Mission Drive in Henderson and the trailhead on McCullough Hills Parkway in Anthem. The trail offers stunning desert vistas with gradual elevation gain. It is well-marked and leads through desert terrain, showcasing native flora and fauna and panoramic views of the Las Vegas Valley and the surrounding mountains. You can loop around any of the connecting trails close to the trailheads for a loop hike, or hike the whole trail for a varied and challenging endurance hike.
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This trailhead leads to the northern end of the Sloan Canyon National Conservation Area. It is an easy access point for the McCullough Hills Trail and has parking available at the trailhead.
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The McCullough Range offers a network of 11 mountain bike trails. These routes cater to various skill levels, from easy loops to more challenging climbs, providing diverse options for exploration.
Yes, the McCullough Range has 3 easy-rated mountain bike trails. A good option for beginners is the McCullough Hills Trailhead loop from McCullough Hills Trailhead Parking Lot, which is 9.7 miles (15.6 km) long and leads through volcanic landscapes and desert flora.
For experienced riders seeking a challenge, there is 1 difficult-rated trail. The McCullough Hills Trailhead – 701 Loop (Southern Edge) loop from McCullough Hills Trailhead Parking Lot is a demanding 45.5 km (28.3 miles) route with significant elevation changes.
Many trails in the McCullough Range are designed as loops, offering varied scenery without retracing your path. Examples include the 601 Trail to 701 Trail Loop and the Bootleg Canyon: Ernie's and Cams Run Loop.
Many trails are accessible from designated parking areas. For instance, the McCullough Hills Trailhead is a popular starting point with parking available. Other routes, like the McCullough Hills Trail loop from Coronado High School, offer parking near schools or other community facilities.
Given its desert climate and proximity to Las Vegas, the cooler months from fall through spring (October to April) are generally ideal for mountain biking in the McCullough Range. Summers can be extremely hot, making early morning or late evening rides necessary if visiting during those months.
While specific regulations for dogs on all trails vary, the McCullough Range is home to wildlife such as the desert tortoise and Nelson bighorn sheep. It's always best to check local signage or the Sloan Canyon National Conservation Area guidelines for specific rules regarding pets to ensure wildlife protection and a safe experience for all.
Yes, some trails are suitable for families, particularly those rated as easy or moderate. The McCullough Hills Trail, for example, is described as mostly smooth and wide, with sections suitable for various skill levels, including beginners. Always check the specific trail details for distance and elevation to ensure it matches your family's ability.
Mountain bike trails in the McCullough Range often provide spectacular panoramic views. You can expect to see the Las Vegas Valley, the Las Vegas Strip, and surrounding mountains like Mount Potosi, the Rainbow Mountains, and the Lake Mead area. The volcanic landscape itself, with visible lava flows and ash falls, also offers unique scenic elements.
The trails in the McCullough Range offer varied terrain. You'll find a mix of smooth sections, gravely turns, and some rocky climbs and switchbacks. While some trails can be rocky, they generally provide an enjoyable cross-country experience. Dry streambeds, known as washes, are also common features.
Yes, the McCullough Range is rich in natural and cultural attractions. The North McCullough Wilderness, part of the Sloan Canyon National Conservation Area, features remarkable petroglyph panels. Other nearby points of interest include Anthem East Trailhead and Black Mountain Trail, which offer additional outdoor exploration opportunities.
The mountain biking routes in the McCullough Range are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 4 reviews. More than 190 mountain bikers have used komoot to explore the varied terrain, often praising the extensive trail network and scenic views of the Las Vegas Valley.
The Sloan Canyon National Conservation Area, which encompasses parts of the McCullough Range, may have specific regulations or permit requirements for certain activities or areas, especially for the Petroglyph Management Area. It is advisable to check the official Bureau of Land Management (BLM) website or local signage for the most current information before your ride.


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