My 2025 bucket list: Must-ride mountain biking trail destinations.
There are a few trail systems I’ve heard so much about, and I’ve spent hours watching cool folks shredding, so I have to check them out for myself. I’m confident I can ride most of these trails. Some might involve more hiking than biking—and I’m okay with that. Whether I’m deciding to drop down a rock slab, pushing my bike up a steep climb, or just taking in the views, I’ll be able to say I experienced these iconic mountain biking spots firsthand. Here’s my 2025 bucket list of mountain biking destinations I can’t wait to check off:
01. Whistler Bike Park, British Columbia
Photo by David-Jennings
Whistler Bike Park is like the holy grail of mountain biking. It’s a place I’ve been dreaming of riding for years. The park has everything from easy, flowy greens to heart-pounding double black diamonds. The famous A-Line trail, with its perfect jumps and swooping turns, is calling my name. I’ve watched YouTuber Rémy Métailler ride these trails over and over. I’ll likely stick to Fitzsimmons and Creekside, but I’m tempted to try Garbanzo to experience BC’s rugged terrain.
Why it’s on the list: It’s world-renowned. The terrain is beautiful, with many new trails in different terrains. If you love mountain biking, Whistler is a must.
Trails I want to ride: South Park, Shake ‘N Bake (but I really want to try them all)
Learn more about the trails in Whistler Bike Park.
Another great resource is Mountain Biking BC.
02. Moab, Utah
Photo by Leslie Kehmeier
Moab’s red rock landscape looks like something from another planet. Its endless views and world-class trails have been calling my name for years. I’ve never ridden in a place like Moab, and I’m most excited about that. With over 120 miles of trail and iconic rides like The Whole Enchilada, there’s no shortage of adventure.
Why it’s on the list: The unique desert terrain, incredible views, and epic trails.
Trails I want to ride: I’m excited to ride parts of The Whole Enchilada—even if I don’t make it through the entire thing.
Learn more about the trails in Whistler Bike Park.
03. Crested Butte, Colorado
Crested Butte is famous for its high-alpine trails, wildflower-filled meadows, and legendary trails like the 401 Trail. The altitude might leave me breathless, but the scenery will make every climb worth it.
Why it’s on the list: It offers incredible scenery, challenging rides, and some of the best singletrack in Colorado.
What I’m looking forward to: Riding Trail 401 through the gorgeous aspens sounds like pure bliss. I’m also excited to hit Middle Cement Creek Trail for a more natural, chunky ride.
Learn more about the trails in Crested Butte.
04. Bentonville, Arkansas
Photo of the first Walmart, called Walton’s, in downtown Bentonville, Arkansas. Photo by Sean Davis
Bentonville is a mountain biking hotspot that’s taken the biking world by storm. Honestly, I’m not sure this place would exist as the world’s best mountain biking destination without the Walmart heirs—specifically Tom and Steuart Walton—having a hand in it. Their personal passion for cycling and deep investment in the region has transformed Bentonville from a sleepy Ozark town into a global mountain biking destination. With world-class trail systems, seamless infrastructure, and a supportive biking community, Bentonville offers everything from urban flow trails to wooded singletrack. I’m excited to explore it for myself and see what all the fuss is about.
Photo of OZ Trails and Slaughter Pen Trails signs
Why it’s on the list: Bentonville’s carefully designed trails make it a rising star in mountain biking.
What I’m looking forward to: Exploring all the trails—or as many as I can muster in one trip. But I’m especially excited about riding Coler Mountain Bike Preserve.
Learn more about the trails in Bentonville.
05. Marquette, Michigan
Marquette is a hidden gem located in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. Known for its smooth, flowy trails and lush forests, it offers a different vibe from the more rugged Western destinations. I live in the Midwest and I always hear from folks, you have got to go ride in Marquette.
Why it’s on the list: Marquette’s trails are known for being fun, challenging, and accessible, and the beautiful scenery is perfect for mountain biking.
What I’m looking forward to: Riding through the forest, soaking in the fall colors, and enjoying the peacefulness of Michigan’s UP.
Learn more about the trails in Marquette.
06. Fruita, Colorado
I learned about Fruita from my Cyclocross coach. The way he described it sounded so fun, so I went on YouTube to see for myself.
Man with bike overlooking the Colorado River at Fruita. Photo from gofruita.com
Fruita is a laid-back biking destination in the Colorado desert. The 18 Road trails and Kokopelli Loops offer smooth singletrack, fast descents, and stunning desert views. It’s also less crowded than other Colorado spots, making it a perfect place to ride.
Why it’s on the list: Fruita’s trails are all about fun, flowy singletrack, and wide-open spaces.
What I’m looking forward to: Riding the flowy trails, watching the sun set over the Colorado River, and camping under the stars.
Learn more about the trails in Fruita.
07. Squamish, British Columbia
Squamish offers some of the most technical and rewarding riding in British Columbia. I’ve spent hours watching YouTuber Rémy Metailler shred these trails, and I’m ready to see them for myself. Squamish is home to famous rock slabs and technical descents that will push me out of my comfort zone.
Why it’s on the list: Squamish offers some of the most technical and rewarding riding in British Columbia, with breathtaking views of lush forests and jagged rock features.
What I’m looking forward to: Testing my skills on those intimidating rock slabs and embracing the wild beauty of the Pacific Northwest. But most importantly—ROCK SLABS!
Ready to ride in 2025
My list is pretty long, so it might carry me into 2026—and that’s fine by me. Be sure to sign up for our newsletter to see where I land first.
