Baldy/Killpecker Dogbone Loop route

This is a serious, physically taxing route. It is continuously rocky and rough. Bring plenty of water and nutrition. Fallen trees may be present at any time. All trails besides N Lone Pine are open to motorized traffic!

A demanding subalpine mixed route with long stretches of sustained advanced/expert riding. A reasonably efficient full suspension bike is ideal. It's possible to start in several spots, but the route as described starts at the small (~10 car) North Lone Pine trailhead on Deadman Rd.

Begin climbing N Lone Pine trail south. It starts as a mix of smooth trail with some rock gardens, leading to a short heads-up downhill. The trail steepens and becomes rougher above. Pedal, pick good lines, and walk as needed. It eventually tees into the Elkhorn Baldy road. Consider your energy level here. 2000+ feet of physical climbing - or a long gravel grind back around the mountain - awaits if you continue down Swamp Creek. Head right toward Killpecker if you are already feeling gassed.

Otherwise, make a left and bomb down the rough Elkhorn Baldy road for about a mile. Be heads up for loose rocks and sudden drops. Watch carefully for the Swamp Creek Cutoff trail on the right - the entrance is somewhat hidden in the trees. A short climb leads to a long stretch of fast, rough downhill. This is a well-used moto trail with some large boulders and deep ruts that can sneak up at speed. Try not to get snagged.

Swamp Creek spits out at a network of smooth gravel roads. It's a good respite from the tech gnar and there are lots of spots to catch air. 171B to 171D is the shortest route through the maze, but all roads lead to Manhattan. Make a left and ride north to the junction with FR 517 - there's a large parking/OHV staging area here. 517 starts smooth, with a few moderate climbs, but becomes hatefully rocky and steep before long. Don't let it break you

Stay on FR 517 past the N Lone Pine junction through a beautiful open area and reach the junction with Killpecker Trail. A final, steep climb/hike tops out in another open area below Middle Bald Mtn. Stop and take in the epic views from this zone. It's all downhill from here. Enjoy a wild rip down complex rock gardens and loose chutes, crossing Killpecker Creek twice. The trail crosses FR 300 several times - be alert for vehicles! Eventually it deposits you at Deadman Rd. Make a right and return to your car.

These trails have a strong old-school/moto flavor, and hike-a-bike throughout the route is likely for all but the fittest chunk junkies. I feel that the physical challenge, the lush environs, and the ripping descents are well worth the push. Have fun and enjoy this wonderful place!