Mustang Loop Trail

The Landmine and Mustang Loop offers a quintessential high desert mountain biking experience, winding through a landscape dotted with Joshua trees, yuccas, and cholla cacti. You'll be treated to stunning mountain views, including the distant Red Rock Escarpment, as you navigate a mix of smooth, flowy singletrack on the Mustang section and more technical, rocky terrain on the Landmine portion.

This popular trail is an easy-rated ride covering 12.0 miles (19.3 km) with 849 feet (259 metres) of elevation gain, typically completed in about 1 hour and 44 minutes. Located near Blue Diamond, it's accessible year-round, though you'll need to carry ample water during hotter periods. The nearby town offers convenient amenities like bike shops and places to eat, making it easy to prepare for your ride.

What makes this route truly stand out is its role as a gateway to the extensive Cottonwood Valley Trail System, offering connections to over 70 other trails. The Landmine Loop itself is named for its large boulders, and you might even spot wild horses or burros roaming freely, adding to the natural charm of this diverse desert adventure.

The Blue Diamond Outer Loop offers a captivating mountain biking adventure through an otherworldly desert landscape, featuring a mix of hardpack, sand, and slickrock. You'll navigate steady climbs and fast descents, with highlights like the technical "Satan's Escalator" and the popular "3 Mile Smile" descent. The route treats you to unbelievable views of Red Rock Canyon and the Las Vegas Valley, framed by ancient sandstone formations and desert flora like Joshua trees and cholla cactus. This moderate 28.4-mile (45.7 km) loop, with 2438 feet (743 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes around 4 hours and 17 minutes to complete.

Starting from the quaint town of Blue Diamond, which provides amenities like a bike shop and restrooms, this trail is easily accessible. It's generally not crowded, allowing for a peaceful ride, but always carry ample water, especially given the desert environment. While some sections are suitable for all skill levels, be prepared for parts that require advanced riding skills or even pushing your bike.

Beyond the thrilling ride, the Blue Diamond Outer Loop offers a unique escape from urban life, following a section of the historic Old Spanish Trail. Keep an eye out for rare desert wildlife such as wild burros and jackrabbits, and enjoy the whimsical touch of landmarks like the "Rubber Ducky Tree." It's a fantastic option for intermediate riders looking for a substantial and scenic desert mountain biking experience.

The Landmine, Molly's, and Cactus Slalom Loop offers a fantastic introduction to desert mountain biking, winding through the Cottonwood Valley Trail System with panoramic views of the Las Vegas Valley and the dramatic Red Rock Canyon. You'll encounter a mix of flowy singletrack and gentle climbs, passing by green shrubs and various cacti, with the chance to spot wild horses or burros. This easy 11.7-mile (18.9 km) route, with 919 feet (280 metres) of elevation gain, is a relaxed ride that takes about 1 hour and 44 minutes.

To plan your visit, head to the Cottonwood Valley Trail System near Blue Diamond, Nevada. The area is particularly popular in October due to favorable weather, but always remember to carry plenty of water, as it's a desert environment. The nearby town of Blue Diamond offers convenient amenities like bike shops and eateries.

This loop is part of the extensive Cottonwood Valley network, with the Landmine Loop section even tracing parts of the historic Old Spanish Trail. Its beginner-friendly nature, combined with the stunning desert scenery and potential wildlife encounters, makes it a notable choice for anyone looking for an accessible and enjoyable ride in the region.