Navigating the Scenic Rides of Bald Mountain: A Cyclist's Perspective

Introduction

Situated near the picturesque city of Ketchum, Idaho, Bald Mountain offers an eclectic blend of mountain biking trails for adventurers keen on an elevated experience. With a lift-assisted ascent providing 3,000 feet of vertical elevation, cyclists get the best of both worlds: stunning views and a thrilling downhill ride.

Getting There

To embark on this adventure, head over to River Run resort, located at 520 River Run Dr, Ketchum, ID. You can find more information about the lift and trails at Sun Valley’s official website.

Trail Options: A Diverse Selection

Warm Springs and Cold Springs

• Distance: Warm Springs (16 mi), Cold Springs (13 mi)
• Level: Intermediate
• Type: Two-way, singletrack

These trails provide a consistent but not too steep gradient. Although they lack technical features, they offer long, satisfying rides often combined into a loop for those averse to using the lifts.

Lupine

• Distance: Varies
• Level: Intermediate
• Type: One-way, singletrack

Starting near the end of Broadway, Lupine promises a fast and flowing descent. With perfectly formed switchbacks and nice airtime opportunities, the last half-mile is particularly delightful.

Saddle-Up

• Distance: Varies
• Level: Intermediate
• Type: One-way, down-slope flow trail

Featuring bermed corners, rollers, and low take-off angle jumps, Saddle-Up provides a fairly floaty ride due to its "soft on hard" surface — a blend of stones and grit on a hard subsurface.

Cyclists' Reviews: The Good, the Bad, and the Scenic

While the trails receive mixed reviews for their lack of technical features, almost everyone agrees that the vistas are jaw-dropping. Cyclists particularly enjoy the bottom section of Warm Springs through the pines and the descent in Lupine. The overall consensus indicates:

• Good Flow: Despite lacking complex MTB features, trails like Saddle-Up offer good flow with great elevation drops.
• Stunning Scenery: The panoramic views are the crown jewels of Bald Mountain, offering an enriching experience.
• Surface Conditions: The mix of dirt, rock, and shale can get a little loose, so keep your wits about you.

What to Expect

• Varied trail lengths with options to loop
• Exhilarating downhill sections
• A floaty ride due to the "soft on hard" surface
• A fair share of hikers and runners; be prepared for some interruptions

Final Words

Whether you're into ripping fast descents or long cross-country loops, Bald Mountain has something to offer for intermediate riders. While it might not dazzle the technically-inclined, the scenery more than makes up for it. Get your lift ticket, ascend effortlessly, and experience a riding adventure set against Idaho's spectacular backdrop.