Beginner to expert mountain bikers will find a wealth of trails on Spencer Mountain west of Whitefish.
A well-maintained dual track roadbed traverses the mountain for easy biking, hiking or jogging. Trails spread like veins across the terrain, and single tracks branch off the main road in numerous directions. An intersection about a mile up the road again offers choices for exploration.
“It offers a lot of versatility,” Kyle White, who was jogging the mountain with Kristin Voisin, said. Both agreed that its proximity to Whitefish is a major draw, but the high number of trails in such a small area is the mountain’s biggest asset.
Mountain bikers may get the most of the area, which offers 1- to 8-mile loops. A few of the single tracks, with dominating drops, sharp turns and “built stunt” trails, should only be taken by expert riders.
The key to the mountain is knowing your own ability and exploring from there.
The DNRC requires a state land-use permit for this area.
How to Get There: Take U.S. Highway 93 north out of Whitefish. Turn left on Twin Bridges Road, then the first left after Spencer Lake. The trailhead is up about 80 yards on the left at a locked gate.