The name itself is a challenge to the die-hard mountain biker, and the reality
doesn’t disappoint. The Bloody Shins Trail, the first developed in the Winnemucca
Mountain Bike Trail System, runs seven to seventeen arduous miles. The trailhead
can be found right on the edge of town, which is supremely convenient for
residents and visitors alike. The track is divided into beginner, intermediate and
advanced grades, all of which are clearly marked, so novice riders shouldn’t be
scared off. The surfaces of each loop on the trail are comprised of dirt roads, two
tracks and single tracks, and mini cattleguards have been installed, so there’s no
need for bikers to open or close gates. The beginner trail starts at an elevation of
4,570 feet and tops out at 4,820 feet after a fairly easy but certainly enjoyable
ride. The intermediate 12-mile track rises 1,000 feet and won’t be forgotten
quickly. But it’s the advanced loop that will really appeal to the adrenaline junkie.
The 17-mile round trip ascends to an elevation of 5,200 feet. On all loops, the
views are phenomenal and the rides themselves truly memorable.
Although the Bloody Shins Trail is a mountain biker’s paradise, other non-
motorized activities are welcome. Outdoor lovers should feel free to hike or
horseback ride across the beautiful terrain. The views of the valley floor and
surrounding mountain ranges won’t disappoint and stealthy visitors may be
fortunate enough to spot native wildlife. But to experience the Bloody Shins Trail
as it was intended, throw on your helmet, get on your bike and get ready to taste
a little Nevada dirt.
My wife and visited this trail on our vacation this year, traveling 2000 miles with our toy hauler from California to Utah and back. Winnemucca was the halfway point for us. I give the trail 4 stars because a lot of the trail markers were missing and I rated it intermediate because we had to hike a bike for a bit when the trail seamed to have no end or indication of a loop, otherwise it was pretty easy. We both wore long workout pants thankfully because you find out real quick what Bloody Shins is named for if you don't. But this was a fun ride just the same and the surroundings very serene. I would definitely do this trail again, but I highly recommend looking at a map first to get a lay out of the land. Our Garmin Edge 1000's were of no use here other then to see where we had been. That's where the hike a bike came into play as we crossed through the knee high coyote brush trying to return to familiar trail. I recommend hitting this trail early morning with plenty of water and some carbs and you'll have a good time!
| ThankDid the easy trail due to the late hour. Got lost and had to double back several times due to weird, missing and broken signage. Lower double track was boring and slightly tricky due to most of it being very soft. Entire upper part of the trail was great flowy single track. Loved the trail. Just needs sign help.
| ThankNice . I was on semi truck and I enjoyed
| ThankA lot of smooth flowing ST. Trail has been added beside the DT so can stay on ST. Trails and dirt roads all over the place. Follow the locals tire tracks for the best riding. Giants Grave area has some intermediate riding and the Advanced trail from the Giants Grave towards the interstate is a blast.
| ThankDue to cows, weather, and pinheads with guns, signage can be iffy Can't get lost though.
Overall a nice place to stretch the legs if passing through.
Had planed to do the whole advanced loop, but due to high winds, and complete lack of any tire tracks higher up, I just rode the lower trails.
Fun Trail. Once you get to the Creek Beds. Pretty Flat 2 track until then. Not much downhill but still a good XC ride.
| Thank