Wilkins Peak Trail System: Green River's Mountain Biking Mecca

Introduction: A Gem in Wyoming's High Desert

Located just outside Green River, Wyoming, the Wilkins Peak Trail System epitomizes the richness of the region's mountain biking culture. With an expansive network spanning 50 miles and encompassing classics like "Pick Your Poison" and "TNT," this system delivers a wealth of experiences that cater to all types of riders. Boasting intermediate level trails with distinct features and terrains, this is a destination offering a full weekend of robust riding.

Trail Attributes: What To Expect

• Distance: 50 miles of interlocking trails.
• Level: Primarily intermediate, but varying difficulties cater to all.
• Terrain: Desert rock, shale, and minimal vegetation.
• Special Features: Technical climbs, fast downhills, natural berms, and built structures like drops and bridges.
• Accessibility: Easy access from I-80, trailhead 2 miles past Scotts Bottom nature area.

Descending the trails, riders encounter a flurry of fast and flowy downhills punctuated by technical features like drops and bridges. But it's not all downhill; the trail system incorporates challenging climbs that demand both skill and stamina. Some trails offer high-speed sections that serve as a battleground for competitive cyclists eager to beat their personal bests or outpace their riding buddies.

User Impressions: What Riders are Saying

Comments from riders offer a diverse picture, with experiences ranging from exhilarating to introspective.

• "A must-ride if you're in the area."
• "High desert riding at its finest!"
• "Lots of great features but a lot of slogging around between them."
• "Miles of trails with a range of difficulty. Something for everyone."
• "Fire road up, singletrack down = great combination!"

The area, while barren and desolate, is praised for the technical challenges it offers and the vibrant community that sustains it. Some riders found the landscape less visually stimulating compared to more colorful locations like Moab, but the high desert has its unique charm and vistas.

Expert Tips

• Multiple Visits: It may take more than one ride, or a guide, to truly explore and enjoy this complex system.
• Route Planning: Trails can be combined for varied experiences. Multiple entrances and exits offer strategic planning opportunities.
• Safety: Given the high-desert environment, adequate hydration and sun protection are essential. Also, some sections are rocky and could pose risks of tire damage.

Getting There

Head southeast from Green River, taking Scotts Bottom road to FMC Park. Follow the dirt road across the Green River, turning east past the red archery barn in Scotts Bottom nature area. About 2 miles past the turn-off to the shooting range, the trailhead can be found on the left.

Conclusion

The Wilkins Peak Trail System presents a broad canvas for mountain bikers to paint their adventures on. Whether it's the fast-paced thrill of a downhill sprint or the muscle-burning grind of an uphill climb, this trail system offers a robust package. A must-visit for any mountain biking aficionado looking to explore Wyoming's high-desert landscapes.