Ride Through Nature: Top Mountain Biking Trails in Kansas

Cyclists explore a scenic trail through lush greenery.
Kansas offers mountain bike riders some of the best trails around. Tons of miles of off-road, rough terrain, and incredible views along the way. Whether you’re a seasoned biker or you’re just getting started, there’s something to challenge you in Kansas. Take time to check-out these great Kansas mountain biking trails!
North Trail at Badger Creek, Fall River, KS
Named to other lists of great Kansas mountain bike trails is the Badger Creek (North Trail) at Fall River near Independence. Both north and south trails are worth the drive out east and provide some great scenic views.
Lake Perry at Perry State Park
Lake Perry is a trail built with mountain biking in mind and is a favorite ride for many competitive bikers. This rock path has steep hills and challenging twists and turns.
Santa Fe Companion Trail at Cimarron National Grassland
Paralleling parts of the original Santa Fe Trail in southwest Kansas is the Santa Fe Companion Trail located in the Cimarron National Grassland. An 18-mile dirt path ride will challenge all levels of dirt bike riders.
North Shore Trail at Clinton State Park
The Clinton State Park North Shore Trail is a single track that winds it ways over rocks, creeks and rolling hills. Considered an easy to moderate trail that has a few challenges to keep it interesting.
El Dorado Bike Trail, El Dorado, KS
The El Dorado Bike Trail near the Walnut River is a challenging mountain bike trail. This trail will take you through some great scenery and along-side the Walnut River.
Camp Horizon, Arkansas City, KS
This adventurist mountain bike trail, Camp Horizon, near Arkansas City is a top trail ride. Great views, a challenging trail ride filled with exciting terrains.
MacLennan Park Trail, Topeka, KS
Said to be a “really great set of trails” by riders, the MacLennan Park Trail in Topeka is open to all levels of mountain bike riders. A hard-packed, gravel trail can give riders a great ride.
Horsethief Canyon Bike Trail at Kanopolis State Park
Horsethief Canyon Bike Trail in Kanopolis State Park presents a different kind of mountain biking experience. The sandstone trail is challenging and picturesque.
Eagle Rock Mountain Bike Trail at Elk City State Park
The Eagle Rock Mountain Bike Trail at Elk City State Park loop can be challenging and fun. The loop will take you along the Elk River and across the hills of Table Mound and give all riders an exciting outing.
Key Insights at a Glance
- The North Trail at Badger Creek near Fall River offers scenic views and a rugged ride, and both the north and south trails are worth exploring for off-road enthusiasts.
- Lake Perry at Perry State Park is a rock-filled, purpose-built trail known for steep climbs and tight turns, which make it popular among competitive riders.
- The Santa Fe Companion Trail in Cimarron National Grassland follows historic routes with an 18-mile dirt path, offering a challenging ride through southwest Kansas.
- North Shore Trail at Clinton State Park winds over rocks, streams, and rolling hills. It's an easy-to-moderate trail with enough variety to keep riders engaged.
- The El Dorado Bike Trail near the Walnut River mixes scenic riverside riding with challenging terrain—ideal for more adventurous riders.
- Camp Horizon in Arkansas City has varied terrain, offering great views and an exciting ride for those who are up for a challenge.
- MacLennan Park Trail in Topeka provides a solid ride on hard-packed gravel, welcoming all skill levels with a smooth and fun experience.
- Horsethief Canyon Bike Trail in Kanopolis State Park features a unique sandstone surface and stunning views, adding a different texture to your ride.
- The Elk City State Park Eagle Rock Trail loops past the Elk River and Table Mound, delivering a hilly, scenic, and moderately challenging biking adventure.