Mountain Biking in Thailand

Chiang Dao, Chiang Mai The hills around Chiang Dao, north of Chiang Mai, are ideal for anyone after a mild off-road challenge. A good mix of sealed roads and dirt tracks winds through the countryside, with plenty of route options. Riders can tack on a side trip to the atmospheric Chiang Dao Caves at the foot of Thailand’s third-highest peak.

Doi Pui, Chiang Mai Doi Pui has the best downhill tracks in the Chiang Mai area. Riders speed through lychee plantations, splash over streams and finish at a reservoir. The mountain tops out around 5,500 feet, delivering plenty of high-octane descents through cool forest.

Doi Suthep, Chiang Mai Chiang Mai’s most famous mountain is a great venue for a short but rewarding ride. It is possible to arrange a shuttle up to the temple with your bike, while seasoned riders can grind out the long climb under their own steam. Several forest tracks have been cut for a fast descent back to the city.

Doi Inthanon, Chiang Mai Thailand’s highest mountain rises to 8,415 feet within its own national park. The long paved road to the summit is a classic road-and-gravel climb, and quieter forest trails branch off toward waterfalls and Hmong villages. Cool highland air makes it one of the most comfortable places to ride in the country.

Mae Hong Son The remote northwest around Mae Hong Son offers demanding rides through mist-shrouded mountains and terraced valleys. Long climbs and technical descents link hill-tribe villages far from the tourist trail. Combine riding with the famous 1,864-curve loop road for an unforgettable multi-day adventure.

Pai, Mae Hong Son The laid-back town of Pai makes a superb base for mountain biking in the far north. Trails and dirt roads lead out to hot springs, waterfalls and Shan and Lisu villages set in rolling hills. Gentle valley loops suit casual riders, while the surrounding ridges reward those chasing a harder workout.

Khao Khitchakut, Chanthaburi This compact national park in the east holds a handful of choice off-road trails. The local highlight is abundant wildlife, including elephants, barking deer, sun bears and countless birds. Quiet forest paths make it a pleasant escape from the coastal resorts.

Chaloem Rattanakosin National Park, Kanchanaburi This little-visited park is the perfect place to escape the crowds and enjoy Thailand’s natural landscape at its wildest. The top trails pass through caves and skirt waterfalls, following a stream that cuts deep into a lush ravine. It is remote, rugged and hugely rewarding for fit riders.

Ko Samui, Surat Thani Samui may be the leading resort island on the gulf, but its mountainous interior is laced with rugged trails perfect for moderate mountain biking. Reaching the high ground means coasting through sleepy inland villages and coconut groves. The reward is jungle scenery and viewpoints far from the busy beaches.

Thung Salaeng Luang National Park, Phetchabun Experienced riders gravitate to this large park in the central highlands. The trails are demanding and require a reasonable skill level. Follow the path to the Pong Sai salt lick to spot wild boar, elephants and gaur among grasslands and pine forest.

Kaeng Krachan National Park, Phetchaburi Thailand’s largest national park borders the Gulf coast near Hua Hin. Its trails run beneath a thick canopy of evergreens that shelters rare plants and animals. Caves, waterfalls and a sprawling reservoir can all be worked into a day’s ride.

Khao Yai National Park, Nakhon Ratchasima This UNESCO-listed park within easy reach of Bangkok boasts a superb set of rugged trails, some designed especially for mountain bikers. Wildlife is everywhere, from gibbons and hornbills to the occasional elephant, and there is glorious scenery at every turn. Its size and accessibility make it one of the country’s best all-round riding destinations.