Swanson Park - Mountain Bike Trail

Buckle up, you cycler! Nestled in the bustling heart of Bellevue, Nebraska lies a diamond in the rough - the Swanson Park Mountain Biking Trail. A ride on this trail is like a dance with the devil, complete with heart-pumping climbs and thrilling descents. This well-ridden, popular trail is a must-ride for intermediate riders seeking an adrenaline-packed adventure. 

This trail features some of the most challenging yet exciting obstacles that will push riders to their limits. The park is perfect for intermediate riders who are looking for a little more thrill than beginner trails have to offer.

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

The trail starts and ends at the Swanson Park entrance, conveniently located near restrooms and the parking space. 

The trail surface is narrow singletrack, which is well-maintained. The 9.7 km loop has a 355 m elevation gain and a 366 m elevation loss. 

The trail surface is like a narrow ribbon of singletrack heaven, well-maintained by the City of Bellevue. 

One of the highlights of this trail is the 6 miles of flowing singletrack. It's like a gentle stream that takes you through the picturesque landscape. The track is perfect for intermediate riders who want to challenge themselves and take their skills to the next level.

As you pedal along the route, watch for obstacles such as ramped log crossings, mini-jumps, dips, and gravity cavities. They'll test your skills and add to the excitement of the ride.

Just remember to watch out for other riders and trail runners and be courteous on the trail. If it has rained heavily in the past few days, the course might be a bit soggy, so it's best to avoid it during this time.

Additional Trail Features

One of the best things about this trail is that it is accessible via public transportation. 

The trail features ramped log crossings, mini-jumps, dips, and gravity cavities that provide an adrenaline rush to riders. 

However, these obstacles can be challenging for beginners, so they should exercise caution when attempting them. No lift service is available at the park, and extra fees are not required to use the trail.

Sights of Interest, Landscapes, and Views

The Swanson Park Mountain Biking Trail offers riders a glimpse of Bellevue's beautiful scenery. Cyclists can enjoy the stunning views of the Missouri River, explore the nearby forests, and catch a glimpse of the local wildlife. 

Riders will also encounter various landscapes, from rocky terrain to flowing singletrack. The park is lovely in the fall when the tree leaves change color.

Recommendations/Precautions

Cyclists should always watch out for other riders and trail runners using the Swanson Park Mountain Biking Trail.

The park can get crowded during peak hours. So it's essential to exercise caution to avoid accidents. After heavy rainfall, some parts of the trail may still be a bit soggy, making them challenging to ride. Cyclists should avoid riding on the trail on days when it is raining.

Conclusion

The Swanson Park Mountain Biking Trail is a must-visit for intermediate riders looking for a challenge. The trail features exciting obstacles, stunning scenery, and convenient access via public transportation. While the park can get crowded, the technical challenges and breathtaking views make it well worth the trip. Cyclists who are up for a challenge should make a point to visit the Swanson Park Mountain Biking Trail on their next trip to Bellevue.