Biking

The Bitterroot National Forest offers mountain bikers miles of roads and trails on which to ride. There are wide, quiet roads for beginners to get acquainted with their bikes, and there are challenging, arduous trails that will test the advanced rider.

If you plan to strike out on your own to explore with your bike, it would be wise to buy a National Forest map (available at any Forest Service office). Please respect the rights of private landowners and always ask permission before you ride on their land. Also be aware of the wilderness boundaries when you are riding on the trails. Bicycles are not allowed in the wilderness areas.

Remember to wear protective gear when riding your mountain bike; helmet, gloves and sturdy shoes. Also plan on taking food, water, sunscreen, and a basic tool kit on all of your outings. Always maintain control of your bicycle and be ready to stop. Watch for traffic on forest roads. Be aware of hikers and livestock along trails. As a courtesy, please step your bicycle off the downhill side of the trail and allow livestock to pass. Some stock may be afraid of your bicycle, so stay in plain view and speak softly.

Enjoy the beauty of the outdoors on your national forests. View the wildlife and the scenery. Keep in mind that the forests and meadows are fragile lands, so please practice low impact, tread lightly techniques.

Mountain Biking

There are many, many miles of trails and roads accessible by mountain bike on our national forests. Many single- track backcountry trails offer riders of all levels of experience a wide variety of riding terrain. Pedal along our many numbered roads and trails, except in wilderness areas or other trails as posted.

If you plan to strike out on your own to explore with your bike, it would be wise to buy a National Forest map. Please respect the rights of private landowners and always ask permission before you ride on their land. Also, be aware of the wilderness boundaries when you are riding on the trails. Bicycles are not allowed in the wilderness areas.

Always maintain control of your bicycle and be ready to stop. Watch for traffic on forest roads. Be aware of hikers and livestock along trails. As a courtesy, please step your bicycle off the downhill side of the trail and allow livestock to pass. Some stock may be afraid of your bicycle, so stay in plain view and speak softly.

Some roads could be closed temporarily or permanently to protect against further damage to wetland and aquatic resources and halt damage to soil, water and vegetation resources. The intent of road closures is to balance popular public use with the sustainability of natural resources.

Closed roads will be posted. Not all bicycle trails are open to off-highway vehicle use. Go to your forest or grassland website for a map of bike trails.
Wilderness areas are off-limits to all vehicles, including bicycles.
Comply with signs and barriers and leave gates as you found them.
Some trails cross private property and are subject to deed restrictions, which prohibit vehicular travel of any kind.
Respect public and private property by practicing minimum impact cycling.

Protect the environment

Stay on trails and roads designated for use. Cutting switchbacks, creating hill climbs and riding in undesignated areas cause erosion, loss of wildlife habitat and other natural resource damage. Repairs cost tax dollars and citations cost you dollars.
Minimize erosion by staying on trails and not cutting switchbacks.
Avoid wet, muddy areas as they are more susceptible to erosion. Meadows, lake shores, stream banks and vegetation are easily damaged.
Do not ride on snow-covered roads
Do not disturb wildlife or livestock.
Teach new riders trail etiquette—lead by example.
Don’t litter. Pack out more than your share.

Ride safely, stay in control

The forest is for everyone. Be considerate of hikers and equestrians.
Always wear a protective helmet and other gear.
Ride single file in the middle of the trail to avoid widening the trail.
Yield right-of-way to other trail users. Horses spook when they see an unfamiliar object, especially one that moves quickly and quietly.
Slow down and use caution when passing others. If necessary, dismount your vehicle or bicycle on the downhill side and wait for horses and hikers to pass.
Control your speed at all times and approach turns in anticipation of someone around the bend. Reckless riding and high downhill speeds are not appropriate.

Be prepared

Be prepared for sudden changes in weather.
Don’t ride alone. Tell someone where you plan to ride and then stick to your plans.
Don’t take unnecessary chances—help for emergencies may be miles away.
Make sure you have a first aid kit and other safety gear with you when riding in the forest.