The Big Bend region of Texas is expansive, rugged, and utterly remote. The Chihuahuan Desert that covers this region is extremely arid, but offers its own unique beauty. Explore this desert wilderness on one of these epic MTB rides.
Less- Greg HeilFind out moreWest Contrabando CampgroundCampground
The Dome Loop offers the most challenging and arguably, most entertaining singletrack mountain biking in Big Bend. This rough ride traverses burly rock gardens, sliding loose rocks, and steep climbs. The work is worth it, though, with entertaining descents and beautiful sections of exposed rock slabs to ride along.
- Greg HeilFind out moreBarton Warnock Visitor CenterVisitor CenterOpen8 AM – 4:30 PM
This beautiful desert ride follows Buena Suerte road and some singletrack trails to reach the historic Whit Roy Mine. Calling Buena Suerte a "road" is a misnomer today, as this old wagon trail has narrowed down to a singletrack trail in many places. However, the name harkens back to the region's history as one of the top quicksilver producers in the nation.
- Greg HeilFind out moreLajitas International AirportAirfield
The Lajitas Airport Trails offer beginner-friendly singletrack winding through the desert just to the east of Big Bend Ranch State Park. While these trails are not nearly as high quality as the Contrabando trails, they still have a loyal following of riders and do offer some beautiful views of the surrounding mountains.
- Greg HeilFind out moreBig Bend Ranch State ParkState ParkOpen 24 Hours
Warning: The Fresno-Sauceda IMBA Epic route is a brutal backcountry endeavor that carries very real risks, such as getting lost in the unforgiving Chihuahuan Desert and dying of dehydration and exposure. Even though IMBA has designated this as an Epic Loop, this is a backcountry route-finding expedition of the first degree. This route traverses some of the best and most remote trails hidden deep in Big Bend Ranch State Park.
