Lebanon Hills: Big Loop
Make the most out of one of Minneapolis's best trail systems with this "big" loop.
Difficult Mountain Biking
- Distance
- 15 km
- Ascent
- 216 m
- Descent
- 216 m
An intermediate-friendly romp through the Lebanon Hills trail system.
Mountain Biking Moderate
"With nearly 12 miles of one-way single-use singletrack, Lebanon Hills has become one of the go-to trails in the Minneapolis metro area," writes MORCMTB.org. Indeed, this fantastic network of singletrack allows riders to let loose and drop the hammer without fear of negative interactions with other trail users. Consequently, this trail system is often the first recommendation off the lips of local Minneapolis mountain bikers.
The trail network here is designed as a stacked-loop system that offers a bit of something for everyone... or at least, as much as the small Minnesota hills can provide. Close to the trailhead, you'll find smooth, flowy beginner trails that loop right back around to the start, providing an easy jaunt through the forest. In the middle, you'll find the long Intermediate trail that covers the most ground. And then, about halfway through the Intermediate trail, you have the option to add some more challenging, rocky singletrack.
However, there's nothing that says you have to add in the more advanced singletrack. Thanks to the stacked-loop design, the more difficult sections are completely optional. If you want, you can simply stick to the Intermediate loop at Lebanon Hills and have an absolutely fantastic time! The Intermediate trail is the trail that anchors the system, and as such, it sees the most loving trail construction and maintenance.
The dark black dirt of the Intermediate trail swoops and flows through the forest, making as much use of the minimal elevation available here as possible. The singletrack is crisscrossed by tree roots, and while there are a few rocks, the tread is mostly smooth.
Throughout the trail system, you'll encounter a bevy of manmade obstacles, from small kickers and drops on some of the downhills to the occasional wooden feature. Berms have also been added in many of the corners to help keep the speed up. Swooping up and down the hollows through the furthest reaches of the network is an absolute blast! The fantastic flow will remind you that you can build a fun mountain bike trail just about anywhere if you're motivated enough.
Moderate
Mostly stable trail tread with some variability, with unavoidable obstacles 8in/20cm tall or less. Other obstacles such as rock gullies and steep sections may exist. Ideal for lower intermediate riders.
Make the most out of one of Minneapolis's best trail systems with this "big" loop.
Difficult Mountain Biking
Dip your toes into mountain biking with this fantastic beginner loop.
Easy Mountain Biking
5 routes · Mountain Biking