Shiloh Ranch Loop - Mountain Bike Trail

Shiloh Ranch Loop is one of the best biking trails for intermediate and expert riders. Located in the foothills of Santa Rosa, California, this biking trail is ideal for a family fun day or for people who want to have fun with friends.

The average length of the Shiloh Ranch Loop is approximately 6.5 km. It features a 173 m elevation gain and a 166 m elevation loss, which made our biking trip more fun and adventurous.

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

Shiloh Ranch biking trail ends where it started. This makes it friendly for first-timers since they won't get lost in the woods. Additionally, this trail is marked, guiding riders on where to go next.

This trail's trailhead is located at the Shiloh Ranch Regional Park. Follow the Big Leaf Connector from here, which leads to the Big Leaf Trail. The first section features a minimal elevation which allows you to enjoy viewing the natural surroundings. The path will lead you to the eastern section, which requires expert riding skills. Although the step climb is short, it's quite tiring, and you may want to take a short break before you get to the junction of the South Ridge Trail and Ridge Trail in a wide-open meadow. Take a left onto the Ridge Trail and ascend again to climb the Canyon Trail.

Biking on the Canyon Trail is quite fun since the switchbacks follow the hills' and contours up and down. Along the route, there are several lovely descents and more challenging climbs. Turn left at the next intersection and follow Mark West Creek Trail northwest until you reach the Pond Trail.

Follow the path to the northern part around a small pond located in the open grassy valley. While here, watch for horses since many riders enjoy stopping here to rest their ponies.

Proceed to the Creekside Trail at the pond's corner for the climax of this ride. This section features a singletrack that follows an enclosed drainage. It also has several elements of a pump track and a thrilling drop. Additionally, most of its parts are shaded, allowing you to cool down.

The Creekside Trail connects to the North Ridge Trail at the base, quickly returning you to the parking area.

Additional Trail Features

Shiloh Ranch Loop biking trail has several features which make it unique. One of the things that we liked is that it has several campsites which allowed us to stay overnight. These campsites contain several amenities, such as restrooms and showers, which made our stay comfortable.

A section of this biking tail is a singletrack, while the other is a double track. Therefore, you should read the signs carefully to know when riding on a singletrack or double track and apply the necessary guidelines.

No dogs are allowed on this trail. If you wish to go biking with your dogs, you may want to look for another option.

What we liked most was its spacious parking lot, and we didn't have to pay a fee to use it.

Sights of Interest, landscapes, views

When biking on Shiloh Ranch Loop, you’ll enjoy seeing several beautiful views. Here are examples of the things you’re likely to see.

•       Wildlife - This biking trail is home to several wild animals, including coyotes, bobcats, deer, and different bird species.
•       Wooded areas - Shiloh Ranch Loop biking trail passes through a wooded area, providing riders with shade, especially during summer.
•       Views - The trail has raised sections that offer an excellent view of the surrounding.
•       Open Fields -The trail runs across several open fields, which provide a sweeping view of the surrounding landscape.

Recommendations/precautions

1. It’s advisable to bring a map when biking on this trail to guide you through the path.
2. Follow all the rules and guidelines of the trail to avoid getting involved in an accident.
3. Remember to always wear comfortable biking clothes to ensure you get the best biking experience.
4. Don’t forget to apply enough bug spray to your skin to prevent insects from biting you.
5. Put on the recommended biking safety gear to protect yourself from severe injuries in case you fall off your bike accidentally.