Biking

The Kootenai National Forest has many trails suited for just about any type of biking, for any skill and endurance level.

The Libby area has to offer the Sheldon Mountain [PDF, 1.1MB] bike course, while the Tobacco River area provide the Kootenai Trail [PDF, 119K], a 7.5 mile long Rails to Trails project.

When biking our trails, please note that weather can change quickly, unexpected slides can occur, and down trees can cause a change to the skill and endurance level of a trail without notice.

To make for a pleasant day of riding be sure to bring along plenty of liquids, carbohydrate snacks, sufficient clothing, helmet, gloves, and a took kit for quick repairs.

Enjoy our trails and please observe our Pack it in - Pack it out policy.

All types of bikers need to be on the lookout for wildlife encounters or other safety hazards that could occur. Plan ahead, take a map, let people know where you are going, check back in. Safe riding!

E-Biking

Electric bikes are welcome anywhere motorized traffic — such as cars, ATVs, or motorcycles — is allowed. Get a Motor Vehicle Use Map (MVUM) at a National Forest office to find opportunities.

Where are e-bikes not allowed?

• E-bikes are prohibited on any non-motorized trails and roads that are closed to motorized use.
• E-bikes are prohibited off designated trails or roads.
• Bicycles and e-bikes are prohibited in designated wilderness areas.

Mountain Biking

Mountain Bikers Guide to Safe Riding in Bear Country

Mountain biking is becoming increasingly popular in the Rocky Mountains, and with this popularity comes both added risk and increased responsibility. Mountain biking is dangerous due to the fact that the bikes move both fast and quiet. Also, the nature of the activity requires that most of the cyclists attention is on balance and control, and less is available for watching for bears. Cyclists need to take a more active approach to being bear aware. Here are some tips.

• Use a noise maker on your bike, such as bells. You need to make noise, especially because bikes move very fast and exceedingly quiet. Bells are a start, but using your voice is an even better noise maker.
• Watch for bear signs. If you suspect a bear may be in the area (based on food plants or signs), leave the area if possible, or at the very least, make an excessive amount of noise.
• Avoid riding downhill at a high rate of speed. Should a bear suddenly appear, you will have less opportunity to react if you are moving quickly. This is especially true on winding hills where bears may be feeding around the next corner.
• Avoid riding trails that are lined with seasonal food sources. This includes trails that pass through avalanche slopes in the spring, as well as those that go through patches of huckleberry in August and early September.
• Ride in groups. This will increase your noise level, and also ensure that there will be someone to assist you if necessary.

Bear Safety

Learn more about bear safety on our wildlife safety webpage.

Road Cycling

For those who enjoy paved roads for biking there are several roads to choose from. Purchase a District Map or download a free Motor Vehicle Use Map and plan your route.

Search for Biking Opportunities