Lake Hodges - Mountain Bike Trail

14 mi
Distance
+1,917/ -1,869 ft
Elevation gain
Easy
Level
Out & back
Route type
0/5
Rating
#6754 place in the world
#4 place in the region
14 mi
Distance
+1,917/ -1,869 ft
Elevation gain
Easy
Level
Out & back
Route type
0/5
Rating
#6754 place in the world
#4 place in the region

The Lake Hodges mountain bike trail is perfect for both beginners and those who want to take a different path each time they ride a trail. You can climb up and around the mountain and experience both wooden trails and rocky lands. On this trail, you will experience rocks, ruts, and will even cross a stream at a point.

There is so much to explore on the Lake Hodges singletrack trail. Read our review of this fascinating route for more details !

Before you go:

Drinking water
Restrooms
Fee required
Lift service
Fat bike grooming
Family Friendly
Night riding
E-bikes allowed
Dogs Allowed
Obstacles
Shuttles

Detailed Trail Description 

You can find the Lake Hodges bike trail near a mall down the road and off into a parking lot. We recommend first starting with the climb up and around the mountain following the wooden areas to the rocky incline. While on this main path, you will have many opportunities to turn to new directions by heading left off the trail. From there, you can experience new sights and experiences that won’t be seen by those sticking to the mountain. 

No matter where you go on this trail, you will experience rocks and ruts. Partway in, you can cross a stream to continue exploring.

Lake Hodges is a singletrack trail that is 22.5 km long. On average, this will take riders about 5 hours and 28 minutes to complete so be prepared for a long ride. 

Additional Trail Features 

It is recommended to bring extra water while going on this trail as completing the trail will take over 5 hours. For inexperienced riders, the rocks, ruts, and stream you will have to navigate can both be a great skill-building experience but also challenging.

There are a few bathrooms along the course. Riders may occasionally come across snakes on the trail, but they are not dangerous. 

The trails are decently narrow and bikers must share the trails with runners and hikers. When coming across runners and hikers, control your speed and slow down while passing. Be mindful of the space between you and the others on the trails. 

Even with the rocks and ruts, the trail is pretty flat. 

Sights of Interest, landscapes, views

The sights seen on this trail are quite beautiful when you are deep in the woods or high up on the mountain. You can see the mountains from a distance and if you go in good weather you will experience clear skies. On bright and sunny days, we recommend packing plenty of sunscreen. 

Recommendations/precautions

There is a gate to the trail in the parking lot you enter. The opening and closing times of the gate may vary. 

As mentioned before, it is recommended to bring sunscreen and plenty of extra water. There are several restrooms placed on the trails. 

It is recommended to start riding the trail earlier in the day as this trail takes 5 and a half hours to complete.

Conclusion

This trail gives you many opportunities of where to go so you can create your own biking adventure. Rocky areas help new riders learn skills in navigation and technique. Also, a nice bonus of passing this route will be beautiful views from the top of the mountain.

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