Big Holes Loop Winter Ride
Mountain Biking Trail
Details
16.52 mi
2,434 ft
A 17-mile mountain loop with views of the Tetons.
The “Big Holes” mountain range (the northern portion of the Snake River Range) is located across the valley from Grand Targhee Resort and is a well-known snowmobile destination. The groomed snowmobile trails there are a great option for fat bikers looking for a big day on snow. Parking is at the “Kay Dairy” trailhead, launching riders immediately from the trailhead into a 14% grade climb. Mercifully, the climb is short and levels off for a brief recovery before resuming at a kinder grade. If you want to assess your mental toughness, a start like that effectively measures a rider’s resolve! If the snow conditions are firm and undisturbed by any recent snowmobile activity, the trail gains elevation quite enjoyably. The 17-mile Big Holes Loop route ascends steeply, never more than a mile at a time before providing a level-ish recovery stretch. In that manner, the 2,000-foot, 9-mile climb never feels overly grueling. Firm snow conditions allow a rider to fully enjoy the varying environments along the way and will be much appreciated during the steep climbs. It is worth noting that several climbs would be hike-a-bike in soft conditions. The physical effort to gain the high point is the admission price to a view of the Tetons! Be sure to enjoy a well-deserved snack while soaking in the view before adding a layer and beginning the descent. The descent is shorter and steeper than the climb, but comes in short stages as a series of “stair-steps.” That makes the descent more fun, and less tiring, than miles of steady elevation loss. If there has been intense sunshine, the softened snow will make a few steep corners a bit “spicy.” While riding through the canyon, keep an eye out for moose; they are not uncommon in this area. In closing the loop, enjoy a bit of mellow cruising before the final 14% drop back to the trailhead. This is a truly fantastic ride in a stunningly-beautiful location! Written by Scott Anderson
The “Big Holes” mountain range (the northern portion of the Snake River Range) is located across the valley from Grand Targhee Resort and is a well-known snowmobile destination. The groomed snowmobile trails there are a great option for fat bikers looking for a big day on snow. Parking is at the “Kay Dairy” trailhead, launching riders immediately from the trailhead into a 14% grade climb. Mercifully, the climb is short and levels off for a brief recovery before resuming at a kinder grade. If you want to assess your mental toughness, a start like that effectively measures a rider’s resolve! If the snow conditions are firm and undisturbed by any recent snowmobile activity, the trail gains elevation quite enjoyably. The 17-mile Big Holes Loop route ascends steeply, never more than a mile at a time before providing a level-ish recovery stretch. In that manner, the 2,000-foot, 9-mile climb never feels overly grueling. Firm snow conditions allow a rider to fully enjoy the varying environments along the way and will be much appreciated during the steep climbs. It is worth noting that several climbs would be hike-a-bike in soft conditions. The physical effort to gain the high point is the admission price to a view of the Tetons! Be sure to enjoy a well-deserved snack while soaking in the view before adding a layer and beginning the descent. The descent is shorter and steeper than the climb, but comes in short stages as a series of “stair-steps.” That makes the descent more fun, and less tiring, than miles of steady elevation loss. If there has been intense sunshine, the softened snow will make a few steep corners a bit “spicy.” While riding through the canyon, keep an eye out for moose; they are not uncommon in this area. In closing the loop, enjoy a bit of mellow cruising before the final 14% drop back to the trailhead. This is a truly fantastic ride in a stunningly-beautiful location! Written by Scott Anderson
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