Mt. Biking In Chiang Rai

[junglechef]

Planning on a trip up from Chiang Mai for a few days to do some Mt. Biking. Can anybody point me in the right direction for some good single track riding. I enjoy off-road (all terrain or all mountain) with medium technical stuff, root and rocks, mud etc., if possible for a nice day out. Nice scenery and other cool stuff to see, take pics of and/or eat is a big plus. Doesn't have to be in CR but looking to be able to drive from CM and ride the same day, stay a night and do the same in reverse the next day. Also any suggestions for places to stay or other points of interest. Thanks.

[BlueSmurf]

Google the Shalin temple which is between mai chan and doi mai salong. Great off road rides on tracks.. Yes I did it but a long time ago.. Gps on a phone would be a great help. Fantastic area to explore. Good luck

[cheeryble]

Try the Ban Du valley, I like riding on the small roads around that, beautiful. At the top right it goes uphill and ends at a hilltribe village. I haven't been past it but there must certainly be tracks leading further from the village (in fact just looked on Google maps and one can see tracks).

Just 15km past CR, go on the Mae Sai road bit past the airport turn, turn left at Ban Du market and follow road. About 6km up road you'll see some signs for resorts etc at a turning to the right....follow up past them to go uphill. If you reach a dead end with a public gardens and waterfalls and stream go back a km or two and take that turn to the right.

Edited July 3, 2012 by cheeryble

[villagefarang]

One is spoiled for choice in Chiang Rai, to the point I am reluctant to start my rides from anyplace other than my own front door. In our area there are no real single track routes. All rideable trails are farmer trails. No doubt some of the more mountainous areas would be more to your liking.

There is a monthly bike ride or bike Hash but I doubt it would be hardcore enough for you. You might stop by one of the local bike shops and get some tips from them. Would like to be more helpful but I really only know my own area.

[villagefarang]

Had the bike in for some repair and upgrade yesterday so asked the owners about single track nearer to town. They really didn’t have any great ideas. Apparently like me, they find mainly farmer trails at varying levels of use and repair.

[villagefarang]

Some photos from recent rides.