FATMAP by Strava

Iron Mountain: Red Trail

A long, flowy trail providing great views of Degray Lake.

Mountain Biking Easy

Distance
15 km
Ascent
278 m
Descent
278 m
Duration
1-2 hrs
Low Point
124 m
High Point
176 m
Gradient
Iron Mountain: Red Trail Map

The Red Trail in the Iron Mountain Trail System is located north of Skyline Drive and is conveniently accessible from the main mountain biking trailhead and the Iron Mountain Campground on Degray Lake.

Description

The Red Loop is substantially longer than the nearby White Loop, making it a bit more committing as you'll venture a long ways from the closest trailhead. However, if you find that the Red Loop is a bit more than you'd bargained for, you can easily shorten it thanks to a couple of short-cut trails that bisect the loop at narrow points.

The singletrack on the Red Loop gets assigned an intermediate rating by some sources, but on a global scale this is truly a beginner-friendly trail. This is reflected by the "Easy" FATMAP Difficulty rating.

The singletrack is smooth, flowing, and wide-open, allowing hammerhead cross country riders to absolutely rock and roll along this fast trail. On the other hand, beginner riders will find that a few of the rocks and roots might challenge them and help them improve their bike handling skills. Notably, the furthest reaches of the trail offer a few small rock gardens, but in the grand scheme of things, these are minimal challenges that barely count as obstacles.

The Red Loop will reward your efforts with fantastic views of Degray Lake. As you can see from the map, the trail swings out onto three different peninsulas. Along this portion of the trail, the singletrack stays quite close to the shore, offering views through the trees. When you find a rare break in the forest, you'll be greeted by expansive vistas of this massive lake. During the winter when the leaves are off the trees, the views are even more spectacular!

Difficulty

Easy

Mostly smooth and non-technical singletrack with unavoidable obstacles 2in/5cm tall or less. Avoidable obstacles may be present. Ideal for beginner riders.

Low Exposure

1 out of 4

The path is on completely flat land and potential injury is limited to falling over.

Remoteness

2 out of 4

Away from help but easily accessed.

Best time to visit

all year round

Features

  • Flow
  • Picturesque
  • Singletrack
  • In the forest
  • Roots
  • Rock Gardens

Similar routes nearby

Guidebooks in this area