The best MTB trails around Atherton
4.7
(155)
1,693
riders
57
rides
Mountain biking around Atherton offers a diverse landscape characterized by rolling hills and wooded areas, with routes often providing views of the surrounding natural environment. The terrain includes a mix of paved sections, dirt paths, and singletrack, catering to various skill levels. The region features lush rainforests and volcanic landscapes, providing a varied backdrop for mountain biking adventures. Elevation changes are common, ranging from gentle inclines to more significant climbs.
Best mountain bike trails around Atherton
- The most popular mountain bike trail is Kings Mountain Road – Kings Mountain Road loop from Woodside, a 11.1 miles (17.9 km) trail that takes 1 hour 28 minutes to complete. This route features moderate climbs through forested areas.
- Another top favourite among local mountain bikers is San Francisco Bay Trail – Shoreline Lake loop from Palo Alto, a moderate 47.5 miles (76.4 km) path. This trail offers extensive bayfront views and flat sections.
- Local mountain bikers also love the Water Dog Lake – Chaparral Trail loop from Redwood City, a 18.4 miles (29.7 km) trail leading through varied parkland and wooded hills, often completed in about 2 hours 21 minutes.
- Mountain biking around Atherton is defined by rolling hills, wooded trails, and scenic lake and bayfront paths. The network offers options for different ability levels, from easy mountain bike trails Atherton for beginners to more advanced mountain bike trails Atherton with significant elevation gain.
- The routes in Atherton are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 130 reviews. More than 1400 mountain bikers have used komoot to explore Atherton's varied terrain.
Last updated: May 11, 2026
20
riders
17.9km
01:28
510m
510m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
16
riders
41.0km
03:31
860m
860m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
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12
riders
29.7km
02:21
540m
540m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
9
riders
76.4km
04:29
120m
120m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
9
riders
50.2km
04:31
1,160m
1,160m
Hard mountain bike ride. Very good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary. Some portions of the route may require you to push your bike.
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Tips from the Community
A nice pocket of multi-use, natural-surface trails. Dogs are allowed, but must be kept on leash.
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Such peaceful views at this spot on the trail after a long hike!
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At the top of the John Brooks Trail, you're treated to peaceful views of the surrounding San Francisco Peninsula Watershed.
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Borel Hill is my favorite place to watch spring flowers. The western slope near ancient oaks (5-10min west of Borel Hill) are covered with orange California Poppies and purple flowers starting in April. Borel Hill itself peaks around mid May and has a wide variety of flowers. The show lasts only a few weeks until end of May. The peak time and flower intensity varies from year to year, so come several times between April and May. There is small summit NW of Borel Hill and a narrow dirt trail leads you to a rock within 2 min. The rock is big enough for 2-3 to sit on. On a sunny day, the rock is nice warm even if the air is cold. Good views on the ocean and the Bay.
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Woodside Store was built back in the 1850s by two pioneers who came to California for the gold rush. At the time it was the only stagecoach stop between San Francisco and Santa Clara, and it carried all the essential items that travelers riding between cities might need. The store has been restored, inside and out, to look exactly as it did centuries ago. You can call the museum ahead of your trip to book tours.
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The San Francisco Bay Trail is a flat, paved trail that runs along the border of the bay. It is a great place for a run because it is traffic free and has great views.
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Water Dog Lake, also known as the John Brooks Memorial Open Space, is located in Belmont, California. The park features a network of trails open for hiking and mountain biking, but dogs must be kept on leash at all times.
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This lake is actually an obstructed stream, once dammed up to provide water to nearby Belmont. Now it's a fantastic recreation site, with several loops of trails that are good for hiking, running and biking.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many mountain bike trails are available around Atherton?
There are over 40 mountain bike trails around Atherton, offering a variety of experiences for different skill levels. The komoot community has explored more than 1700 of these routes.
What is the general difficulty level of mountain biking in Atherton?
The trails around Atherton offer a mix of difficulties. You'll find 11 easy routes, 23 moderate routes, and 9 more challenging trails, ensuring options for all skill levels from beginners to advanced riders.
Are there mountain bike trails suitable for beginners in Atherton?
Yes, Atherton has several easy mountain bike trails perfect for beginners. One example is the Arastradero Lake – Bowl Loop Jumps loop from California Avenue, which is 14.2 miles (22.9 km) long and leads through varied parkland with lake views.
Are there any challenging mountain bike trails for experienced riders?
For experienced riders seeking a challenge, Atherton offers several difficult trails. The Skeggs Point – Sierra Morena Trail loop from Huddart County Park is a notable option, covering 30.5 miles (49.1 km) with significant elevation changes.
What do other mountain bikers say about the trails in Atherton?
The mountain bike trails around Atherton are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 140 reviews. Riders often praise the diverse terrain, from rolling hills and wooded areas to scenic lake and bayfront paths.
Are there any mountain bike trails that offer scenic viewpoints?
Yes, many trails in the Atherton area provide scenic viewpoints. For example, the Byrne Preserve Lookout offers expansive views, and the Windy Hill Summit is another excellent spot for panoramic vistas.
What kind of natural attractions can I see along the mountain bike trails?
While mountain biking around Atherton, you can encounter various natural attractions. Highlights include the unique Tafoni Sandstone Formation and the serene Pulgas Water Temple. Some trails also pass by the impressive Methuselah Tree.
Are there any historical or cultural landmarks near the mountain bike routes?
Yes, you can find historical landmarks near some routes. The Woodside Store (Historic Site) is a notable point of interest that offers a glimpse into the region's past.
Are there mountain bike trails that are loop routes?
Many mountain bike trails around Atherton are designed as loops, offering a convenient way to start and end your ride at the same point. The Kings Mountain Road – Kings Mountain Road loop from Woodside is a popular example, featuring moderate climbs through forested areas.
What is the typical length and duration of mountain bike trails in Atherton?
Trail lengths vary significantly. You can find shorter routes like the 11.1 miles (17.9 km) Kings Mountain Road loop, which takes about 1 hour 28 minutes, up to longer excursions such as the 47.5 miles (76.4 km) San Francisco Bay Trail – Shoreline Lake loop from Palo Alto, typically completed in about 4 hours 30 minutes.
What is the best time of year to go mountain biking in Atherton?
Atherton generally offers good mountain biking conditions for much of the year. The region's climate typically allows for pleasant riding during spring and fall, with mild temperatures. Summer can be warm, and winter may bring rain, affecting trail conditions, so checking local weather is always advisable.
Are there any hidden gem mountain bike trails in the Atherton area?
While specific 'hidden gems' are often discovered by local exploration, trails like the Water Dog Lake – Top of John Brooks Trail loop from Redwood City offer a rewarding experience through diverse terrain, which might be less frequented than the most popular routes.
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