Top Mountain Biking Trails in Kernville & Kern River Valley
- Kern River's Edge Team
- Aug 16
- 6 min read
Nestled in the breathtaking Sierra Nevada foothills, Kernville and the Kern River Valley offer some of California’s best-kept secrets for mountain bikers. With trails that range from relaxed riverside routes to rugged high-elevation plunges, the region is perfect for weekend warriors and seasoned riders alike.
In this guide, you’ll discover top trails like Whiskey Flat, Just Outstanding, Unal, Cannell, and Old State Road—with access info, terrain details, and local tips to help you plan your adventure.
👉 Book your campsite online now. We’ll see you soon—on the Kern!
🚵♂️ 1. Whiskey Flat Trail
Distance: 1–15+ miles, mostly first 4 miles for mtb
Difficulty: Moderate to Advanced
Terrain: Single-track with elevation changes, rocky/sandy sections, water crossings
Why Ride It: Whiskey Flat is a local classic. This scenic trail ride follows the Kern River and features rolling climbs, creek crossings, and mountain views. The first 4 miles are predominately the most accessible for mtb.
Trail Access:
Trailhead: At the north end of Kernville, at the end of Burlando Road.
Advanced Route: Shuttle from Fairview or McNally’s Restaurant and ride back toward Kernville. Avoid Summer riding here, or go very early in the AM.
Parking: Free parking at trailhead or along the road (arrive early on weekends).
Restrooms: Public restrooms at Riverside Park in Kernville. No facilities on-trail.
🌲 2. Unal Trail
Distance: ~4 mile loop
Difficulty: Intermediate to Advanced
Terrain: Steep climbs, rugged single-track, forested
Why Ride It: This loop trail offers a challenging workout and sweeping views of the High Sierras. Forested, incense-cedar scented and quiet, it’s a favorite among local riders.
Trail Access:
Trailhead: Located off Rancheria Road, just past Alta Sierra (about 30 minutes from Kernville). Look for Unal Trailhead signage.
Parking: Dirt lot at trailhead, or street parking.
Restrooms: Porta-potty @ Greenhorn Summit, near Ranger Station.
Elevation: Trail peaks at 6,861 ft—perfect for cooler summer riding.
🏔️ 3. Just Outstanding Trail
Distance: ~5 miles with options (shuttle ride)
Difficulty: Intermediate to Advanced
Terrain: Rocky, technical, pine forest single-track
Why Ride It: The name says it all—Just Outstanding delivers one of the best rides in the region, featuring flowy forest terrain and long, technical descents. Ideal for shuttle runs.
Trail Access:
Top Trailhead (Shuttle Start): Typically access off Rancheria Road from the Alta Sierra Ski Resort parking lot, about 30 minutes from Kernville.
Bottom Connection: Via Dutch Flat Trailhead or Wagy Flat Road.
Parking: Small pullouts at both top and bottom.
Restrooms: Porta-potty @ Greenhorn Summit, near Ranger Station.
Shuttle Tip: Ask local shuttle shop for shuttle info.
🚵♀️ 4. Old State Road (Fireroad)
Distance: 5–10+ miles (shuttle ride)
Difficulty: Beginner to Intermediate
Terrain: Graded dirt road with steady climbs, switchbacks, and scenic views
Why Ride It: Old State Road offers a wide, fire-road style ride that’s perfect for new riders, families, or those seeking a steady descent without technical challenges. You’ll enjoy expansive views of the Kern Valley and Lake Isabella, with options to connect to other trails like Unal or Just Outstanding.
Trail Access:
Start Point: Begin from the Alta Sierra Ski Resort parking lot area off Rancheria Road, two miles above the Greenhorn Summit.
Alternate Entry: Park at Unal Trailhead and continue up Old State Road.
Parking: Dirt pullouts and roadside parking available.
Restrooms: No facilities at the trailhead. Nearest restrooms are at Greenhorn Summit.
Pro Tip: A good "warm-up" ride before tackling more technical trails.
⛰️ 5. Cannell Trail ("The Plunge")
Distance: 1–20 miles (shuttle)
Difficulty: Advanced
Terrain: High-altitude single-track, long descents, rocky technical sections
Why Ride It: Cannell is the crown jewel of Kernville mountain biking. Most riders shuttle to the top (Sherman Pass) and ride down “The Plunge,” an epic descent with dramatic views, fast flow, and serious challenge. Don't let this epic descent fool you, there is still 2,000' of climbing on this one!
Trail Access:
Top Trailhead (Shuttle Start): Off Sherman Pass Road, ~1 hour drive from Kernville.
Bottom Trailhead: Cannell Meadow Trailhead, just north of Kernville on Sierra Way.
Parking:
Top: Limited paved parking near Sherman Pass.
Bottom: Free dirt parking lot near Cannell Trailhead.
Restrooms: Porta-potty.
Caution: Trail can take 3–8 hours. Carry water, layers, tools, a headlamp, snake bite kit, and check weather/elevation conditions.
🏞️ 6. Portuguese Pass Trail
Distance: 10–20+ miles (loop or out-and-back options)
Difficulty: Intermediate to Advanced
Terrain: Forested single-track, open meadows, technical climbs and descents, exposed ridgelines
Why Ride It: Portuguese Pass offers a remote, high-elevation backcountry experience with stunning alpine meadows, pine forests, and epic ridge views. It’s part of a larger network of trails in the Greenhorn Mountains, making it ideal for riders who want longer loops or explorations. Expect challenging terrain, fewer crowds, and pure Sierra wilderness.
Trail Access:
Trailhead Location:
From Kernville, take Mountain Highway 99 north to Sherman Pass Road, then west on Forest Road 23S16 (Portuguese Pass Road).
Trail begins near the Portuguese Pass trailhead sign—watch for signage or use GPS with Trailforks or MTB Project.
Parking:
Limited dirt pullouts near the trailhead. No official parking lot.
Accessible by high-clearance vehicles; road can be rough.
Restrooms: None available. Closest facilities are in Kernville or at campgrounds along Sherman Pass.
Navigation Tip: Cell signal is spotty—download maps offline and bring a GPS-enabled trail app.
⚠️ Note: This is a remote, back country trail. Carry extra water, a full repair kit, and be bear aware. Ideal in early-late summer or fall when snow has melted but temps are still cool.
🧰 What to Bring: Kernville MTB Essentials
Kernville has no official Bike Shop so you need to arrive prepared. There are a couple of local shops who carry some bike supplies, so be sure to reach out if you find yourself needing emergency repairs or supplies. We recommend bringing these biking essentials:
🚲 Bike: Full-suspension recommended for most trails; tuned and ready to ride
🪖 Helmet: Mandatory—trails can be rocky and technical
💧 Water: Hydration pack is ideal
🍫 Snacks: Energy bars, fruit, trail mix
🩹 First Aid Kit: Compact and easy to access
🧢 Sun Protection: Sunscreen, SPF gear, sunglasses
🔧 Bike Tools: Pump, tire levers, patch kit
👕 Clothing: Moisture-wicking clothes, padded shorts
🌄 Best Time of Day to Ride
🌅 Early Morning (6–8 AM) in Summer
Cooler temps
Fewer riders
Ideal for Whiskey Flat or Cannell in Summer
🌇 Late Afternoon (5–7 PM)
Cooler rides with sunset views
Be sure to finish before dark
Good for shorter rides like Unal or Old State Road Fireroad
🚴 Trail Difficulty by Experience Level
🟢 Beginner
Whiskey Flat (first 1–3 miles)
Old State Road
🟡 Intermediate
🔴 Advanced
Full Whiskey Flat or Just Outstanding extensions
🌲 Local Tips & Trail Etiquette
☀️ Weather: Summer temps soar mid-day; bring water and layers
🐻 Wildlife: Watch for bears, deer, snakes, and wild turkeys
🚷 Etiquette: Yield to hikers, be respectful of other trail users
🛠️ Trail Info: Use All Trails, Trailforks or MTB Project for navigation and updates
🌟 Why Ride in Kernville?
From scenic riverside routes to high-alpine plunges, Kernville delivers unmatched variety for mountain bikers. With fewer crowds, epic views, and welcoming locals, this hidden gem is a must-ride destination just a few hours from LA, Bakersfield, or Fresno.
🚗 Plan Your Visit
📍 From Los Angeles: ~3.5 hrs
📍 From Fresno/Bakersfield: ~1–3 hrs
🏕️ Stay Options: Campgrounds, cabins, Airbnbs, and inns
🚵 Bike Shops & Rentals: Check out local shops in Kernville
🎒 Ready to Ride?
Gear up, hit the road, and discover the mountain biking trails of Kernville. The Sierra is calling. 🌄
👉 Book your campsite online now. We’ll see you soon—on the Kern!
Looking for more camping tips and tricks?
Then we’ve got you covered! Check out some of our additional resources to learn more about camping along the Kern River and how to camp like a seasoned pro!
Additional Resources:
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