Mark Twain National Forest

Biking

For Trail Information, Click Here

The Mark Twain National Forest has many excellent opportunities for road and mountain biking. If you're planning to ride on local highways, remember that summer traffic can be extremely heavy, so be careful! For mountain biking, there is an extensive network of woods roads and over 400 miles of multiple use trails, some of which provide for excellent riding.   You can also ride your bikes at Chadwick Motorcycle and ATV Use Area in Christian County, and Sutton Bluff Motorcycle and ATV Use Area in Reynolds County if you have a Forest Service permit. Mountain biking is relatively unrestricted and depends on your cooperation and consideration to remain that way.

Daily permits are $3, and annual permits are $20. For information on where and how to purchase the trail permits for Chadwick and Sutton Bluff Motorcycle and ATV Use Areas click here.

Please follow these guidelines when biking on the Mark Twain National Forest:

• When riding on open roads, watch out for the other traffic. Drivers of Logging truck, busses, and cars may not be watching for you.
• Be Considerate of Hikers, Pedestrians and other trail users.
• Slow down and yield the right of way when approaching foot travelers or horses.
• To prevent resource damage, avoid riding on muddy trails or after heavy rain. Stay on designated roads or trails, and avoid trampling vegetation.
• Follow the TreadLightly Guide for Mountain Bike Riding.

Cycling is prohibited on short trails within and adjacent to developed recreation areas, and in the 7 designated Wildernesses.

Trails vary greatly in difficulty, length and physical conditions. The trail index and descriptions will help you select the best trail for your ride.

For your safety, always be prepared when riding off-road.

Wear a Helmet, let someone know where you are going and when you expect to return, and Carry the Following Safety Items:

• Food and Water
• Wind and Rain Gear
• Warm Clothing
• Emergency First Aid and Repair Kit
• Head Lamp
• Batteries