Swasey Recreation Area – Mule Mountain loop from Pilgrim Congregational Church
Swasey Recreation Area – Mule Mountain loop from Pilgrim Congregational Church
2.8
(9)
25
riders
Swasey Recreation Area – Mule Mountain loop from Pilgrim Congregational Church
03:40
38.1km
850m
Mountain biking
Hard mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary. Some portions of the route may require you to push your bike. The starting point of the route is accessible with public transport.
Last updated: April 25, 2026
Tips
Includes a very steep uphill segment
You may need to push your bike.
After 5.45 km for 217 m
Waypoints
Start point
Bus stop
Get Directions
3.79 km
Salt Creek Trail
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
Tip by
10.2 km
Swasey Recreation Area
Highlight • Trail
Tip by
12.0 km
Stream crossing
Highlight • River
Tip by
22.1 km
Mule Mountain
Highlight • Summit
Tip by
29.5 km
Swasey Recreation Area
Highlight • MTB Park
Tip by
38.1 km
End point
Bus stop
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
17.2 km
9.80 km
5.26 km
4.63 km
1.25 km
Surfaces
20.5 km
10.1 km
6.45 km
1.09 km
Sign up to see more specific route details
Sign up for free
Elevation
Highest point (680 m)
Lowest point (200 m)
Sign up to see more specific route details
Sign up for free
Weather
Powered by Foreca
Today
Thursday 23 July
37°C
19°C
0 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 16.0 km/h
to get more detailed weather forecasts along your route
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Description
If you're looking for a serious mountain biking challenge with big rewards, the Swasey Recreation Area – Mule Mountain loop from Pilgrim Congregational Church delivers. This difficult 23.7-mile (38.1 km) route packs in 2481 feet (756 metres) of climbing over roughly 3 hours and 27 minutes, making it a demanding ride for experienced bikers seeking panoramic views.
What to expect on Swasey Recreation Area – Mule Mountain loop from Pilgrim Congregational Church
Expect a varied journey as you tackle the Mule Mountain loop. The terrain shifts from packed dirt and gravel to rocky sections, with trails like the "Escalator" offering steady, sustained climbs that test your endurance. But the effort is well worth it; you'll be rewarded with outstanding views of Mt. Shasta and Mt. Lassen, and eventually 360-degree vistas from Mule Mountain Summit, including Whiskeytown Lake. You'll also encounter fast flow trails like "Snail Trail" with berms and rollers, making this a route best suited for confident riders comfortable with both technical sections and significant climbing.
Planning your visit
While this specific route starts from Pilgrim Congregational Church, the Swasey Recreation Area is more commonly accessed from trailheads like Wintu or Oak Knoll. Parking availability at the church is not specified, so consider checking local resources or planning an early start. The area is known for its diverse trails, and spring brings meadows covered in lupines, making it a beautiful time to ride. Always carry enough water, especially during warmer months in California.
Trail details
- Distance: 23.7 miles (38.1 km)
- Elevation gain: 2481 feet (756 metres)
- Difficulty: difficult
- Estimated time: 3 hours and 27 minutes
Comments
Want to know more?
Sign up for a free komoot account to join the conversation.
Sign up for free