The best gravel rides in Blaine County

Blaine County offers a selection of 8 gravel bike routes on komoot, ranging from moderate to difficult. These trails allow you to explore the diverse landscapes of the region, from high desert to mountainous terrain.

While many routes in Blaine County are rated moderate to difficult, the area around the Quigley Road Trailhead near Hailey is known for offering easy, beginner-friendly gravel rides, which are particularly good for children. This area provides options for both gravel and singletrack riding.

Gravel biking in Blaine County offers a stunning variety of landscapes. You'll traverse rugged mountains, lush forests, pristine rivers, and picturesque valleys. Many routes explore Idaho's beautiful sage hills and high desert, with spectacular views of the Pioneer Mountains. The Wood River Valley, in particular, provides a feast for the eyes, especially during fall.

Yes, Blaine County features several longer gravel routes. For example, the Penny Mountain – Big Wood River loop from Sun Valley is a substantial 43.9-mile (70.8 km) trail. Another option is the Gravel loop from Hailey, which covers 32.8 miles (52.8 km) through the high desert and sage hills.

For experienced riders seeking a challenge, Blaine County offers several difficult routes. The Hemingway Memorial – Pioneer Cabin loop from Sun Valley is a demanding 29.5-mile (47.5 km) trail with extensive mountain views. Another difficult option is the Gravel loop from Hailey, which spans 35.5 miles (57.1 km) and features significant elevation gain.

The gravel biking routes in Blaine County are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 3.0 stars from more than 2 reviews. Riders often praise the varied terrain, the stunning natural beauty, and the opportunity to explore Idaho's backcountry. Over 80 gravel bikers have used komoot to discover the area's diverse trails.

Yes, several routes offer access to interesting landmarks and natural features. For instance, the Hemingway Memorial – Pioneer Cabin loop from Sun Valley passes by the Hemingway Memorial and the historic Pioneer Cabin. You can also find beautiful alpine lakes like Pettit Lake, Titus Lake, and Lower Norton Lake in the broader Sawtooth National Recreation Area.

The prime season for gravel biking in Blaine County is typically from late spring through early fall. During these months, the weather is generally favorable, and trails are clear of snow. The fall offers particularly stunning scenery as the leaves change color in the Wood River Valley.

Many of the gravel routes in Blaine County are designed as loops, offering a continuous riding experience without retracing your path. Examples include the Hemingway Memorial – Pioneer Cabin loop from Sun Valley, the Gravel loop from Hailey, and the Penny Mountain – Big Wood River loop from Sun Valley.

The Blaine County Recreation District (BCRD) is actively involved in developing and maintaining trails in the area. For up-to-date information on access points, difficulty, and current trail conditions, it's advisable to consult local resources like the BCRD's Summer TrailLink. Additionally, the City of Hailey provides a detailed gravel map for the area, which you can find on visitsunvalley.com.

Yes, a portion of Blaine County falls within the Central Idaho Dark Sky Reserve. This designation means the area offers exceptional stargazing opportunities, making it a perfect spot to enjoy the night sky after a day of gravel biking.