By editor
Approximate
The riding above Red Lodge is defined by the massive, rolling expanse of the Line Creek Plateau. Riding here feels like mountain biking across the Great Plains, except you are at 10,000 feet and the air is thin enough to make your lungs burn. The plateau is rocky, exposed, and entirely above the tree line.
The classic route involves a shuttle to the top of the plateau, followed by a brutal, rocky traverse and a massive 3,000-foot descent down Maurice Mountain. The descent is fast and smooth, a stark contrast to the technical rock gardens on the plateau. The weather here is notoriously volatile, and riders must be prepared for sudden thunderstorms or snow squalls even in August. The trails are managed by the US Forest Service, and access is free.
Must-Ride Trail: The Line Creek Plateau to Maurice Mountain shuttle is a 16-mile epic that stands as one of the most unique high-alpine rides in the state.
Visitor Access
- Total Mileage: 16+ miles
- Difficulty: Advanced
- Season: July through September
Confirm current trail conditions, seasonal closures, and land-manager rules before you ride. Carry bear spray on remote and alpine routes.