347 / Mint Wash (short loop) Skill Level: Intermediate/Advanced - Exertion level: Moderate to difficult.
This might be one of the better loops at Granite Basin. From the Cayuse Parking area ride the small service road (346) to the gate and the start of 347. Enjoy a beautiful downhill to the sharp turn onto 348. A mild climb takes you to the techy drop to Mint Wash (345). Mint wash will deliver you at the lake and wraps around to the mellow ride back on 351.
349 / 351 Loop Skill Level: Novice/Intermediate - Exertion level: Moderate
If you want a challenging loop with a bit more speed and a little less technical rock, this is the loop for you. From Cayuse, this is an easy loop to follow. Head up the climb on 349 to catch a great view of Granite Mountain. Enjoy one of the nicer downhills to the turn onto 351 and back to Cayuse.
Granite mountain is impossible to miss. We're very lucky to have The Mountain in our back yard. If you catch the mountain on a good day with favorable conditions and nice cool weather, we promise you'll never forget it. Just a great place to ride.
THE GRANITE MOUNTAIN TRAIL SYSTEM ALSO INCLUDES SOME TRAILS WITHIN THE WILDERNESS AREA. BIKES ARE NOT ALLOWED INSIDE THE WILDERNESS BOUNDRARIES. DON'T GO THERE!
The ride options at Granite Mountain are endless. Some riders like to tackle some trails in a specific direction, but most trails can be enjoyed in either direction.If you have time for a longer loop, follow 347 to the far north/east corner of the Mint Wash Loop. The downhill to the end of 347 seems eternal. If you don't catch even a little air on the many water bars, you really missed out on some good anti-gravity fun.
If you drive to Granite Basin and plan to park within the recreation area, don't forget to bring $5 for parking.
