Mountain View & Mammoth Rock Trail loop — Inyo National Forest

This loop is considered difficult. Both the Mountain View Trail and Mammoth Rock Trail feature sustained climbs and can be technically challenging in sections. The Mountain View Trail, in particular, has steep grades (up to 14%) and reaches high altitudes (over 9,000 feet), requiring good fitness and strong lung capacity. It's not recommended for beginners or casual family rides.

The loop offers diverse terrain. The Mountain View Trail features cross-country style riding with a mix of singletrack and old forest service roads, including hardpack, dirt, and some thick pumice sections. The Mammoth Rock Trail is moderately technical singletrack, starting on an old jeep road before transitioning to singletrack and sandy segments as it climbs through the woods.

You'll encounter several notable features. The Mountain View Trail leads to the Minaret Vista Scenic Area, offering epic views of Ritter, Banner Peaks, and the Minarets, as well as Mammoth Mountain. Along the Mammoth Rock Trail, you'll pass beneath the monumental Mammoth Rock Trail itself, a massive 250-million-year-old limestone and marble monolith. You might also spot the Mammoth statue 🐘 Mammoth Mountain Resort.

The full loop, covering over 50 kilometers, typically takes around 4 hours and 40 minutes to complete by mountain bike. This duration can vary based on your fitness level, the number of stops you make, and trail conditions.

The best time to ride this loop is generally during the summer and early fall months when the trails are free of snow and weather conditions are most favorable. Always check local trail conditions and weather forecasts before heading out, especially at higher elevations.

Access points for this loop can vary, but a common starting point is near the Mountain View Trail Trailhead. Parking availability can depend on the specific section you choose to start from. Given the extensive trail network in the Inyo National Forest, multiple parking areas serve different segments of the loop.

Generally, permits are not required for day-use mountain biking on most trails within the Inyo National Forest. However, it's always a good idea to check the official USDA Forest Service website for the Inyo National Forest (usda.gov) for any current regulations or specific area restrictions before your visit.

While dogs are generally allowed on trails in the Inyo National Forest, they must be kept on a leash. Always practice Leave No Trace principles, including packing out all pet waste. Be mindful of wildlife and other trail users.

Yes, be prepared for significant elevation changes and high altitudes. The Mountain View Trail climbs to over 9,000 feet, and some sections have steep grades (12-14%) where you might need to dismount and push your bike. Hydration is crucial, and carrying extra layers is advisable due to changing mountain weather. Connecting the public Mountain View Trail with sections within the Mammoth Mountain Bike Park is a common strategy to extend your ride.

Yes, the route passes through sections of several other trails, including the Lakes Basin Path, Beach Cruiser, Manzanita, and Uptown. You'll also find connections to the Panorama Mountain Bike Loop.

Yes, the Minaret Vista Scenic Area, accessible via the Mountain View Trail, offers picnic benches and bathrooms, making it a good spot for a break and photos during your ride.