Mountain Biking the Deadhorse Loop – Las Vegas

The Experience

Riding the Deadhorse Loop isn’t just a trail session—it’s a desert gauntlet. Once a NORBA training and racing route, this ride brings together every challenge you’d expect from its storied history: grinding climbs, fast singletrack descents, and the ever-present reality of cacti as your roadside companions.

The journey begins under a power line—a deceptive entry into what quickly turns into a technical and physically demanding ride. At 0.2 miles, you’ll spot the singletrack on your left. Take a mental note because this is where you’ll finish the loop. From here, the trail weaves into the foothills, climbing gradually but relentlessly over loose gravel and through the occasional techy section. By the time you hit the 2-mile mark, the worst of the climbing is behind you, but the real fun is still ahead.

The reward for your efforts? A two-mile stretch of fast and furious singletrack. The trail hugs the terrain tightly, throwing in banked corners, small drops, and jagged rocks that keep your focus razor-sharp. Don’t get too comfortable—the trail flirts with jeep roads, requiring attention to markers and bike tracks to stay on course. At Devil’s Escalator, the switchbacks will make your legs burn, but the summit offers a stunning payoff: sweeping views of the Vegas Valley.

What follows is pure exhilaration. The descent through Red Canyon is a gravity-driven symphony of tight turns, rocky sections, and sudden bursts of speed. This technical stretch drops you into a parking lot near where you began. If your legs are still up for it, a mile-long singletrack detour loops you back under the power line to close the ride.

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Adventure Guide Summary

Location:

The Deadhorse Loop is located at the Late Night Trailhead on Pahrump Valley Hwy.

Trail Details:

• Distance: ~9.5 miles
• Elevation Gain: ~1,200 ft
• Trail Type: Loop with mixed singletrack and jeep roads
• Difficulty: Intermediate to advanced due to loose gravel, technical sections, and climbs like Devil’s Escalator.

Highlights:

• Climbing Challenges: The gradual ascent early in the ride tests stamina, while Devil’s Escalator sharpens your technical climbing skills.
• Fast Descents: Two miles of singletrack downhill packed with rocks, drops, and sweeping turns.
• Vegas Valley Overlook: A ridge viewpoint offering breathtaking desert panoramas.
• Red Canyon Run: A thrilling, technical descent with tight corners and rocky obstacles.

Best Time to Ride:

• Spring and fall are perfect for this trail, with mild temperatures making the climbs manageable. Winter rides can be chilly but enjoyable, while summer rides are best tackled early in the morning to avoid the brutal desert heat.

What to Bring:

• Mountain bike: A full-suspension bike is recommended for tackling rocky sections and fast descents.
• Hydration: At least 2–3 liters of water; the desert offers no mercy.
• Protective gear: A helmet and gloves are essential. Knee and elbow pads are advised for technical sections.
• Trail map or GPS device: Some sections of the route intersect with jeep roads, so navigation can be tricky.

Pro Tips:

• Keep an eye out for trail markers, especially after jeep road crossings.
• Pace yourself during the climbs, as the loose gravel can be energy-sapping.
• Stop at the Vegas Valley Overlook for a well-earned breather and a photo op.
• If you’re unfamiliar with the trail, ride with a buddy or group for navigation support and added safety.

Post-Ride Recharge:

After conquering the Deadhorse Loop, head into nearby Summerlin for a well-deserved meal. Public School 702 offers hearty dishes and local brews perfect for recovering after a demanding ride.

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Deadhorse Loop isn’t just a trail; it’s a rite of passage for mountain bikers looking to take on one of Las Vegas’s most thrilling desert adventures. Pack your grit, gear, and plenty of water—this loop is one for the books.