Explore Grant County 2024: Mountain Biking

Published 7:00 am Wednesday, April 17, 2024

Mountain biking opportunities have steadily expanded in Grant County, thanks in large part to the efforts of the nonprofit Eastern Oregon Trail Alliance. The group’s hard work has paid off handsomely with a burgeoning network of trails in the woods around Magone Lake and an easy-to-reach bike park in John Day. 

Magone Trail Network

Centered around Magone Lake in the Malheur National Forest, the Magone Trail Network includes 27 miles of new mountain biking trails for outdoor enthusiasts of all levels, offering a diverse range of routes with views of the breathtaking Blue Mountains. Trails in the Magone Trail Network are accessed via three primary trailheads: Lake Butte, The Hub and Tinker Creek.

For more experienced mountain biking enthusiasts seeking a rush of adrenaline, the network’s more technical loops promise a thrilling ride, while newbies can ease into the sport on gentler, beginner-friendly trails. Moreover, hikers and trail-runners will find solace in the network’s accessibility and the stunning vistas it offers of the Blue Mountains.

The Magone Trail Network is the first single track purpose-built mountain bike trail system in the region. The creation of the Magone Trail Network was made possible through a collaborative effort between Eastern Oregon Trail Alliance and the Malheur National Forest with funding from the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department.

John Day Bike Park

Located next to the Seventh Street Sports Complex in John Day, this easy-to-get-to mountain biking playground was completed in 2018 by Eastern Oregon Trail Alliance in partnership with the city. The John Day Bike Park trailhead is located next to the John Day Pump Track within the city park and features 2 miles of riding paths, with two climbing trails and three fun, flowy descending trails, including a jump line.

The mountain bike trails at Seventh Street are perfect for families and beginner mountain bikers alike — offering fun and excitement for all skill levels.

John Day Pump Track

Eastern Oregon Trail Alliance teamed up with the city of John Day to open the John Day Pump Track in 2020. Located at the northeast corner of the Seventh Street Sports Complex, the pump track features a looped sequence of rollers, berms and banked turns designed to maximize momentum and limit pedaling. The John Day Pump Track offers a fun and engaging experience for BMX riders of all ages.

 

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