Lake Chabot Grand Loop

Dogs Leashed

E-Bikes Not Allowed

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Upper Redtail Trail is fairly fun, along with the steep, technical section of Cottontail Trail and the rolling hills of Goldenrod Trail. There is a large climb on Brandon Trail, so be prepared for that after the golf course.

Good for older children who can handle long rides. The tough climb on Brandon and total distance should steer away families with younger children. The ride itself isn't overly difficult though, except for the part of Cottontail that can be cut off with a ride around on Lower Redtail.

First, head away from the crowds and the lake on McGregor-George Trail. Don't worry - you'll have plenty of time to see the lake later. Cross the street and continue up the singletrack. Ignore all of the trails branching off to the side - these are all either hiking-only trails or non-legal trails.

Eventually, you should arrive at the Nike Classroom. Pass by and cross the street to the start of Ten Hills Trail. Make sure to head straight instead of left at the fork - the trail to the left is not marked and illegal. The trail heads down into the forest and hits a semi-technical segment, and then meets up with Cameron Loop Trail. Ignore this and continue straight on Ten Hills. Eventually, you should reach the top. This is where the fun begins.

It is steep hill after steep hill, and you'll be surprised at how fast you'll pick up speed. You can also race side-by-side with others due to the wideness of the trail. Eventually, you'll reach the end of Ten Hills, where there is an intersection with a street. At this point, turn onto Brandon Trail and start the tight descent. After a technical section, turn left and continue on the flat part of Brandon Trail. Note: there is a sketchy jump on the right at this part if you want to take it.

Once you reach the golf course, continue straight (NOT left!) and cross the road. You should be on a singletrack connector next to the right side of the pond. Continue until you reach the fire road Brandon Trail. This is where the climbing really begins. It is 700 ft of semi-steep climbs, lasting around three miles. Near the top, there is a bench in the shade on which to rest.

A bit after the bench, if you want some variety, take the unmarked singletrack on the left (ride at your own risk) for an easier way to climb up. This is accompanied by an amazing view, although there is a steep and dangerous drop-off on one side. After a minute, turn back onto the fire road and complete the climb. Once you reach the very top, there is another bench. If you want even more great views, climb the steep mountain trail to the top of the peak. Bikes are not allowed, so please dismount and either carry your bike up or leave it at the bottom.

At the top, there are breathtaking views of San Francisco and the bay. Coming back down, continue on Brandon Trail, which is directly straight from the end of the tough climb before the peak spur. At the parking lot, turn onto the road (not the trail!) and bike up. Watch out for a trail on your left - this leads to the fun singletrack portion of Upper Redtail Trail.

Once you turn onto the trail, bike up a few sandy switchbacks and drop down the trail. There is an optional jump, but it is VERY risky and can easily lead to getting hurt. Climb up the Redtail Trail and follow it until you reach a point at which it drops down to the left. This is the start of the descent, but make sure you get some speed because there are a few steep climbs thrown in.

After the end of the singletrack, go across the parking lot and climb up the paved part of the trail. Then, turn left onto Cottontail Trail. This is a steep, technical trail that is not recommended for beginners. It is covered in bumpy rock slabs, all at a 15+ percent grade. At the bottom, turn right down the trail. Then, cross the bridge and start the mild climb on Goldenrod Trail. Before long, you'll reach another fork. Turn left and cross Grass Valley Ave., continuing on Goldenrod Trail across the street. This trail is one of my favorites in the park. It has steep descents and rolling hills without many crowds. Follow this extremely fast trail and continue on it, avoiding all turnoff trails. This is the quickest part of the ride due to its downhill nature.

Eventually, you should reach a paved part. At the bottom, turn left onto the unpaved part and follow the trail. Pull up the MTB Project mobile app as needed. Eventually, you should reach Bass Cove Trail. This is another fun trail. After this, head on the CROWDED and paved West Shore Trail to the end.