River Mountains Loop Trail. Photo: NPS/Andrew Cattoir, 2015.
You want a bike ride near Boulder City, with a look at Lake Mead and enough time left for lunch. Start by choosing the surface: the Historic Railroad Trail has hardpacked gravel and tunnels; the River Mountains Loop Trail is paved, but the full circuit is 34 miles.
For a first visit, we would choose a short out-and-back rather than commit to the whole loop. You can enjoy the scenery without making distance the point of the outing.
- Choose the Historic Railroad Trail for a mostly level gravel ride through old railroad tunnels.
- Choose a short section of the River Mountains Loop Trail if you prefer pavement.
- For rentals, ask All Mountain Cyclery for a bike suited to your chosen surface and a route that matches your riding experience.
Which Boulder City bike trail should a beginner choose?
The Historic Railroad Trail is our first choice for a sightseeing ride if you are comfortable on fine gravel. If you want pavement, choose a short out-and-back on the River Mountains Loop Trail. Both let you turn around before completing the full published route; choose your distance before setting out.
The important difference is under your tires. A paved route can still involve climbing, while a gravel path can be mostly level. Someone returning to cycling after a long break may prefer pavement and a short distance. A rider happy on hardpacked gravel may enjoy the railroad tunnels more.
Boulder City’s riding extends beyond these two routes. For other outdoor stops, see our things to do in Boulder City.
What is the Historic Railroad Trail ride like?
The Historic Railroad Trail follows the old Hoover Dam construction railroad through five tunnels, with views over Lake Mead. Its surface is level, hardpacked fine gravel. The trailhead parking lot is below the Lake Mead Visitor Center on Lakeshore Road, with toilets and a self-service bike repair station.
The full published route is 3.7 miles one way, listed as 7.5 miles round trip. For a first ride, turn back at the fifth tunnel instead of continuing toward Hoover Dam. You can turn around earlier, too. Agree on your turnaround before leaving the trailhead.
Expect walkers sharing the trail. Take the tunnels slowly, bring bike lights and leave room to pass. There is no shade for the first 1.5 miles, so carry water and choose a cool part of the day.
If you would rather explore on foot, our Historic Railroad Trail walking guide covers the same railroad history and lake views.
Is the River Mountains Loop Trail an easy bike ride?
The River Mountains Loop Trail is paved, but a full lap is a much bigger outing than a short tunnel ride. The whole loop is 34 miles. The National Park Service’s 16.2-mile figure describes only the portion inside Lake Mead National Recreation Area, not the entire circuit.
For a relaxed first ride, pick one access point and ride a short section in both directions. That gives you pavement without committing to the full loop. Ask about the grade of your chosen section before leaving, especially if you are riding with children or someone who dislikes hills.
The loop connects Boulder City, Henderson and Lake Mead. It makes more sense as a full ride for someone who wants a substantial cycling outing, rather than a quick look at the lake. Check the park’s current conditions before heading out, and review the park-entry information on the NPS trail pages.
Where can you rent a bike and stop afterward?
All Mountain Cyclery offers bike rentals and service at 1601 Boulder City Parkway. Choose your trail first, then ask the shop about the appropriate bike and size. Its rental page recommends reserving ahead so the right bike is ready when you arrive.
A rental conversation is a useful time to settle the details: gravel or pavement, your comfortable distance and how you will reach the trailhead. Ask about transport arrangements instead of assuming they come with the rental.
Back in town, finish with coffee at Dam Roast House & Browder Bookstore. Our Boulder City coffee guide has more choices.
Choose the ride you will enjoy on the way back, too. For a first outing, a shorter distance leaves you time to stop and look at the lake.