Mills Peak Trail

The Mills Peak Loop is a moderate 19.2-mile (30.9 km) mountain biking trail that promises a varied and engaging ride, typically completed in about 3 hours and 5 minutes with 2830 feet (863 metres) of elevation gain. You'll navigate through diverse terrain, from fast, flowy sections to challenging rock gardens and loose shale, all while enjoying impressive high-mountain scenery and expansive views of the Gold Lakes Basin. It's a trail that keeps you on your toes, rewarding effort with stunning vistas.

Planning your ride on the Mills Peak Loop offers flexibility; you can tackle the full loop as a challenging climb and descent, or opt for a shuttle service to enjoy a predominantly downhill experience. While generally considered moderate, some sections, particularly in the upper third, require good fitness and advanced riding skills. Be sure to factor in the significant elevation changes if you're riding the full loop.

This iconic Northern California mountain biking trail is a creation of the Sierra Buttes Trail Stewardship, the same organization behind the famous Downieville Downhill. Its blend of technical challenges and flowy descents, set within a beautiful high-mountain environment, makes it stand out. Don't miss the historic fire lookout at the peak for truly awe-inspiring panoramic views that cap off the experience.

The Mills Peak Lookout – Mills Peak Trail loop from C-Road offers a dynamic mountain biking adventure through the stunning Lakes Basin. You'll climb through diverse terrain, eventually reaching the Mills Peak Fire Lookout at 7,300 feet, where panoramic views of Gold Lake and Sierra Valley await. The descent is a highlight, transitioning from rocky, technical singletrack in the upper sections to flowy bermed corners and challenging rock gardens further down, all while surrounded by old-growth trees and occasional wide-open vistas.

This moderate 17.0-mile (27.3 km) route involves a substantial 2913 feet (888 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking around 3 hours and 2 minutes to complete. While the Mills Peak Trail is popular for shuttle descents, this loop provides the full experience, including the rewarding climb. Parking is available at the C-Road trailhead, and planning your visit for late spring or early fall often provides the best conditions.

What makes this trail truly stand out is its design by the Sierra Buttes Trail Stewardship, known for creating world-class mountain biking routes. It balances excellent rolling flow with technical challenges, featuring tight, rocky, and smooth lines that keep the ride engaging. Compared to more crowded trails in the region, Mills Peak offers a chance to enjoy impressive high-mountain scenery and fresh air with fewer riders.