Brown County State Park Mountain Biking Guide

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If you’re looking for the best singletrack in Indiana, mountain biking at Brown County State Park is where you’ll find it. The park’s 35+ miles of trails range from smooth beginner loops to black-diamond challenges, drawing riders from across the Midwest and the country who want flow, climbs, and miles of wooded terrain.

I live in Brown County and have spent years learning the ins and outs of the local riding scene. While I’m more of a hiker and road biker myself, my husband Clint has ridden many miles on these trails, many of our friends ride here weekly, and even our kids were riding some of the trails years ago, as soon as their training wheels were off. 

Add to that countless chats with the owners of the local bike shop and other local trail stewards, and I’ve pulled together the kind of information I wish had been available when we first moved here: clear, practical, and all in one place.

Whether you’re a brand new rider or just unfamiliar with the layout, you’ll find everything you need here to plan a great ride at Brown County State Park—trail breakdowns, suggested loops, and helpful tips on what to expect. And if you’re a more experienced rider, this guide still has plenty to offer, including trail-specific notes, access info, and route combinations that make the most of your time in the park.

Overlay text reads “Brown County State Park Mountain Biking Guide” on a photo of a smiling group of riders with their bikes at a scenic overlook at sunset.

👉 If you’re looking to explore beyond the State Park—including Yellowwood, Hoosier National Forest, Explore Brown County, and gravel/road alternatives—check out my full Brown County Mountain Biking Guide. But if your focus is the State Park itself, you’re in the right place.

Choose the Right Trail: Brown County State Park Mountain Bike Trails by Skill Level

Brown County State Park is home to one of the most impressive mountain biking trail systems in the Midwest—with over 35 miles of trails that range from smooth, family-friendly loops to rocky, expert-level descents. But if you’re not already familiar with the layout, figuring out where to start can feel a little overwhelming.

To help, I’ve broken down all the trails by skill level below, along with tips on what to expect, how to access each one, and whether you’ll need a DNR mountain bike permit. This list is pulled from a mix of park guides, Trailforks data, local rider input, and my own family’s experience riding in the park—so you’re getting a consolidated, practical view without needing to sort through five different maps and outdated websites.

Beginner Trails

  • Limekiln East – 2.0 mi
  • Limekiln West – 2.1 mi
  • Nature Center – 0.4 mi
  • North Gate – 2.4 mi
  • North Tower – 3.2 mi
  • Pine Loop – 1.0 mi
  • West Gate – 1.1 mi

Intermediate Trails

  • Aynes – 2.5 mi
  • Green Valley – 4.0 mi
  • Hesitation Point – 2.6 mi
  • Shelley – 1.9 mi
  • Weedpatch – 2.3 mi

Advanced Trails

  • Bobcat – 2.2 mi
  • Gnawbone – 1.2 mi
  • Hobbs Hollow – 3.2 mi
  • Rim – 0.8 mi
  • Walnut – 2.0 mi

Expert Trail

  • Schooner Trace – 3.6 mi

Explore Beyond the Park

  • 10 O’Clock Line Trail – 2.7 mi

A Few Quick Reminders Before You Start Riding

Trail Maps

While the official State Park map includes most of the mountain bike trails, it’s not the most reliable source—some trail mileages are incorrect, and a few newer trails aren’t even listed. 

For the most accurate and up-to-date info, I recommend using the Brown County Mountain Biking Association’s trail map (PDF)—it’s what I used to organize and double-check the info in this post.

Close-up of a detailed trail map titled “Mountain Biking Trails – Brown County State Park, Indiana,” showing trail names, difficulty levels, and key locations within the park.

Indiana Off-Road Cycling Permits

If you’re riding anything above beginner level (green trails), you’ll need a DNR Off-Road Cycling Permit. More on that later in the post, but keep that in mind as you plan.

One Other Quick Note

You’ll see me reference Clint, my husband, throughout this guide. He’s the more experienced mountain biker in our family, so many of the observations about trail difficulty, flow, or technical features come from his time riding here (and comparing notes with friends).

Beginner Mountain Bike Trails In Brown County State Park

Permit Required: No – An Indiana Off-Road Cycling Permit is NOT required if you are only on beginner trails.

These are the best options for new riders, kids, or anyone looking for a low-key ride without big climbs or technical features. If you’re only riding these beginner trails, you don’t need a DNR off-road cycling permit.

Two young children wearing helmets ride mountain bikes on a narrow dirt trail through dense, green forest in summer.

Pine

| 1.0 Mile | Trailforks Link » |

This short trail sits just below the North Lookout Tower, making it easy to access from there, or from the large parking area that’s just past the pool as you come in the North Gate. 

Pine is one of the easiest trails in the park, and is often used as a warm-up trail for experienced riders as they make their way through the park to more advanced trails. 

The terrain is mellow, with just a few turns and features to make it feel like a “real” mountain bike trail, but it’s friendly and non-threatening—great for younger kids or true first-timers. 

I’ve ridden this one a few times myself, and while it’s not quite as fun as Limekiln, it’s a solid entry point if you’re just getting started.

North Gate

| 2.4 Miles | Trailforks Link » |

North Gate is a solid beginner-friendly  connector trail that gradually climbs into the main trail system from the North Gate lot. It’s not as exciting on its own as some of the other trails, but it’s a useful way to access other routes without hopping on the road. 

You can combine a portion of this trail with Pine to make an easy, beginner friendly loop.

There are a few rooty spots to watch out for, and this is a two-way trail that can get busy, so be ready to yield, especially to riders climbing uphill.

Limekiln Loop (East & West)

| 4.1 Miles Total | Trailforks: East | West |

This loop is one of the most fun and accessible rides in the park. It’s a directional loop made up of Limekiln East and Limekiln West, and the direction changes depending on the day of the week (don’t worry—it’s clearly marked at the trailhead).

If you’re planning to ride the whole loop, the direction doesn’t matter too much—but as a family, we tend to plan our starting point around which direction Limekiln West is going on a given day, since it’s the smoother, more flowy side. That’s also the section I personally enjoy the most (even as someone who doesn’t ride much), and it’s been the clear favorite with our kids too.

Expect smooth trail, a few fun optional features, and a little bit of climbing (more climbing on the East Trail than the West Trail)—but nothing too intimidating. 

It’s a great ride for beginners, but still interesting enough for more experienced riders to enjoy as a warmup or easy loop.

Three wooden trail markers at a trailhead surrounded by tall grass and vines, labeling the Limekiln West trail as the easiest and noting directional use by day of the week.

North Tower

| 3.2 Miles | Trailforks Link » |

This trail is often described as the most technical of the beginner trails. It has more roots, tighter turns, and a bit more climbing, but it’s still accessible for newer riders. 

My husband, Clint, likes dropping in here from the North Lookout Tower to head towards Hesitation Point for a fun and fast descent right off the bat.

West Gate

| 1.1 Miles | Trailforks Link » |

Mostly a connector, but a scenic one. This trail doesn’t use much elevation and is a good way to link into Weedpatch or Bobcat without riding along the road.

Intermediate Mountain Bike Trails in Brown County State Park

Permit Required: Yes – Indiana Off-Road Cycling Permit is required for these trails.

These trails step things up a notch with longer climbs, faster descents, and more technical features, like roots, rocks, and switchbacks. Still rideable for confident beginners looking to progress—but expect to work a bit harder and stay more alert on the trail.

Aynes

| 2.5 Miles | Trailforks Link » |

If you’re looking for a solid climb, Aynes is where to find it. This classic singletrack trail is one of Clint’s go-to rides when he wants a workout—no matter which direction you tackle it from, it’s got sustained elevation and plenty of roots to keep things interesting.

Aynes can be treated as a sort of loop on its own, but many riders also use it as a connector from North Gate Trail to Bobcat and Weed Patch. 

It’s not overly technical, but definitely physical. A great next step if you’re ready to leave beginner trails behind.

Green Valley

| 4.0 Miles | Trailforks Link » |

Green Valley is long, scenic, fast-flowing, and is often ranked as a favorite in the park. It runs through a remote section of Brown County State Park and feels more “out there” than many of the other trails, which adds to the experience. You can access it from North Tower or Aynes. 

Riders love it for the alternating climbs and descents, smooth berms, and switchbacks that give it great rhythm without being punishing. Clint especially likes how this one balances flow and effort—nothing too crazy, just a really fun trail that keeps you moving.

Hesitation Point

| 2.6 Miles | Trailforks Link » |

This trail lives up to its name with some of the best views in the park, especially if you’re starting from it’s scenic namesake—the overlook at Hesitation Point. From there, it’s either a fast and rocky descent or a steady, root-filled climb, depending on your direction. 

Clint considers it about equal to Aynes in terms of effort, but it has a few more technical spots, like tight tree gaps and rock gardens.

Hesitation Point also connects directly to Shelley, Green Valley, and North Gate, and often serves as the middle leg of a bigger ride. It’s well-used and two-way, so always keep an eye out for other riders if you’re heading downhill.

Group of mountain bikers posing with their bikes on a gravel clearing at sunset, overlooking the rolling hills of Brown County State Park.

Shelley

| 1.9 Miles | Trailforks Link » |

Shelley is easy to overlook, but it’s a useful and enjoyable connection from Hobbs Hollow back to the main trail network. It blends hand-built singletrack with old roadbed sections, and while it’s not super flashy, it’s worth riding on its own, not just as an exit.

Use Shelley to connect Hobbs Hollow to Hesitation Point, or loop it with Green Valley and North Gate for a longer ride. Good variety here and a nice change of pace if you’re stringing together multiple trails.

Weedpatch

| 2.3 Miles | Trailforks Link » |

Weedpatch is a newer, flowy, two-way trail with fast descents and fun features, but keep in mind—it’s got climbs on both ends. 

Clint thinks it’s one of the most approachable intermediate trails, and I’d agree based on the many friends I know that take their more adventurous kids along with them on this trail. (I’ve not ridden this one myself). 

There are multiple entry points: one near the Fire Tower, and another just across the road from West Gate. It’s well-built and a favorite among both newer and experienced riders. 

Also worth noting: Weedpatch is one of the few adaptive-friendly trails in the park, with wide tread and manageable grades.

Three adaptive and mountain bikers rest on a leafy forest trail; one rider is using a recumbent handcycle, showing the trail’s accessibility.

Advanced Mountain Bike Trails in Brown County State Park

Permit Required: Yes – Indiana Off-Road Cycling Permit is required for these trails.

Expect more technical terrain, rougher tread, and features like drops, exposed rock, and tighter turns. These are best suited for confident, experienced riders—or at least those up for a challenge and ready to get off and walk features if needed.

Hobbs Hollow

| 3.2 Miles | Trailforks Link » |

Hobbs is one of the marquee trails in the park—a long, machine-built, gravity-fed dream that rides like something out of a proper bike park. 

It’s downhill-only and full of big berms, tabletops, rollers, and smartly designed features. Clint says it’s the kind of trail where you finish grinning and then immediately want to climb back up to do it again.

And while it’s listed as an advanced trail, Clint often brings beginner friends on it—everything can be rolled if you take your time. You’ll still need enough endurance to climb out the back end (no shuttle here), but for a taste of flow trail perfection in Indiana, Hobbs is the one to hit.

Access tip: Hobbs starts just a short distance from the Hesitation Point parking lot and drops in hard and fast. Be sure to scout it first and ride within your limits on the first lap.

Gnawbone

| 1.2 Miles | Trailforks Link » |

Gnawbone isn’t the longest trail in the park, but it definitely packs a punch. This is a directional, downhill-only line full of jumps, drops, and rock features—with optional offshoots that let advanced riders push their skills. 

Compared to Hobbs, it feels a bit more raw and untamed, but that’s part of its appeal.

It’s a great addition to a flow-heavy day if you’re stringing together Hobbs and Weedpatch, and it’s best ridden when you’re feeling dialed in and ready to go a bit bigger.

Bobcat

| 2.2 Miles | Trailforks Link » |

Bobcat is a rugged, narrow trail full of slick rock, steep drop-ins, and old-school hand-cut singletrack—definitely not one to take lightly. Clint says that while it’s a solid challenge in dry conditions, it gets sketchy fast when wet. For those who enjoy a real technical ride, this one delivers.

If you’re feeling confident, you can take Bobcat straight from the top of Aynes and descend into the valley. But for those looking to avoid the chunkier sections, there’s a safer connector line across to Weedpatch that bypasses the most challenging parts.

Walnut Trail

| 2.0 Miles | Trailforks Link » |

Walnut blends challenging root and rock features with just enough flow to keep you moving. It’s a great choice for experienced riders looking for a solid out-and-back, or as a warm-up to even harder trails like Schooner. Clint says this is his favorite technical trail in the park.

The trail can be ridden in either direction and connects from the Hoosier’s Nest lot to Hesitation Point. It’s not overly exposed but has enough natural obstacles and challenging sections to keep you focused the entire time. 

Great for those who enjoy classic, technical cross-country riding.

Rim

| 0.8 Miles | Trailforks Link » |

Rim is more of a connector than a destination trail, but it earns its advanced rating. This short stretch links the top of Aynes with Bobcat and features narrow tread, switchbacks, and rock features right out of the gate. The terrain at the start (including some logovers) gives a good preview of the vibe to come.

It’s a great way to link trails and extend your ride if you’re working your way across the ridge, but it’s definitely not a relaxed ride.

Expert Mountain Bike Trails in Brown County State Park

Permit Required: Yes – Indiana Off-Road Cycling Permit is required.

This is where things get serious. Brown County’s only expert-level trail is infamous for a reason—it’s not just tough, it’s borderline wild. Only recommended for highly skilled riders who are ready for steep exposure, constant tech, and some hike-a-bike if needed.

Schooner Trace

| 3.6 Miles | Trailforks Link » |

Schooner Trace is the most technical trail in the park, and arguably one of the most difficult in the Midwest. Between the boulder-filled rock gardens, tight corners, and narrow tread clinging to steep hillsides, it’s an intense, slow-moving challenge from start to finish.

Even experienced riders tend to walk sections, and Clint (who’s hiked the trail twice but hasn’t ridden it) points out a few features that are borderline unrideable with very little margin for error. This trail demands sharp focus, great line choice, and a lot of patience. Don’t expect to nail it on your first try.

If you’re up for a true test, Schooner will deliver, but it’s definitely a trail that rewards caution and humility. You can access it from either end of Walnut Trail.

Riding Beyond the State Park

Permit Required: Yes – Indiana Off-Road Cycling Permit is required.

Looking to explore outside the main trail system? This route is one option for connecting riders from Brown County State Park to the neighboring Yellowwood State Forest and Hoosier National Forest, offering a deeper and more remote experience.

Mountain bike trailhead with a dirt path winding through lush green forest, marked by a “10 O’Clock Line” trail sign and a “Trail Courtesy” yield sign.

10 O’Clock Line Trail

| 2.7 Miles | Trailforks Link » |

The 10 O’Clock Line is a key route for riders venturing west from the State Park into Yellowwood or Hoosier National Forest. It’s not a singletrack flow trail—instead, you’ll be riding mostly doubletrack and fire road, with some intersections with horse trails along the way.

This trail starts from the campground area and leads to Crooked Creek Loop, a rugged, remote trail that Clint describes as “a doozy,” filled with tight rocky corners and frequent logovers. You can also drive straight to Crooked Creek Lake and start from there if you want to skip the long connector trail approach.

⚠️ NOTE: As of August 2025, a large portion of the Crooked Creek Loop is closed for salvage logging operations following the May 2025 tornado, with no date announced for reopening.

Check Brown County Mountain Biking Facebook page, Trailforks, or the Yellowwood State Forest page for up-to-date trail status before you go.

The 10 O’Clock Line can be a fun adventure route, but it’s definitely more backcountry. Expect muddy conditions in wet seasons, no water or facilities, and unreliable cell service. Be prepared and ride within your limits. This isn’t a trail to take lightly if you’re unfamiliar with the area.

While this is the only direct connector trail out of the State Park to another trail system, this is far from the only other trail system in the area.

If you’re willing to drive and looking to explore beyond the park boundaries, don’t miss my Ultimate Brown County, Indiana Mountain Biking Guide.

That post covers:

  • Trail systems outside the park, including Yellowwood State Forest, Hoosier National Forest, and private trail systems
  • Gravel and road riding alternatives when the singletrack is closed
  • Local rentals, clinics, maps, and more

Whether you stick to the State Park or go further afield, Brown County has an impressive variety of trail experiences to offer.

Suggested Routes & Loops

In addition to planning your own ride, you can also try one of the curated route suggestions from the Brown County Mountain Bike Association (BCMBA). 

These routes range from short beginner-friendly loops to full-day epics, and many are marked with colored sticker markers at key trail intersections inside Brown County State Park.

BCMBA provides links to Trailforks, Garmin, and Strava, so you can download or follow the route easily. For full route details and navigation tools, head to their page:
BCMBA Featured Routes

A child on a mountain bike rides along a winding forest trail, surrounded by tall trees and thick green underbrush.

Beginner-Friendly Routes

Route #1 – Northern Lights (WHITE stickers)

| Distance: 6.1 mi | Elevation: 531 ft | Type: Cross-country |

Route: North Gate > North Tower > North Gate

Perfect for newer riders who want a solid loop that stays entirely on beginner-friendly trails. Easy to follow and low on technical features.

Route #3 – 4 Leaf Clover (PURPLE stickers)

| Distance: 12.0 mi | Elevation: 930 ft | Type: Cross-country |

Route: Pine > North Gate > North Tower > North Gate > Green Valley (optional)

This one gives you more mileage without getting into too much difficulty—unless you opt to include Green Valley, which is considered an intermediate trail. You can always skip that part and stick to North Gate for a more beginner-focused ride.

Intermediate Routes

Route #2 – Breakfast Loop (PINK stickers)

| Distance: 6.9 mi | Elevation: 707 ft | Type: Flow + Technical Cross-country |

Route: Hobbs > Shelley > Hesitation > Fire Road > Bobcat > Rim > West Gate

A great loop to sample flow and tech. This route gives a little taste of everything and is a fun early morning ride if you’re short on time.

Route #4 – Average MBr Perimeter Loop (YELLOW stickers)

| Distance: 16.6 mi | Elevation: 1469 ft | Type: Flow XC Tech |

Route: North Gate > North Tower > Aynes > Rim > West Gate > Hesitation > Shelley > Green Valley > North Gate

One of the best intermediate-to-advanced full loops in the park. A mix of smooth sections and tough climbs. Use this as a “classic sampler” if you want to explore a big chunk of the park without hitting the expert stuff.

Advanced & Endurance Routes

Route #5 – Dad Bod Destroyer (ORANGE stickers)

| Distance: 20.1 mi | Elevation: 2160 ft | Type: Flow XC Tech |

Route: Limekiln > Weedpatch > West Gate > Gnaw Bone > Hesitation > Hobbs > Shelley > North Gate > Aynes > Rim > Weedpatch > Limekiln

This one lives up to the name! It’s a challenging but rewarding route that covers a huge portion of the park, blending flow and tech. Direction of some portions changes based on day of the week (due to Limekiln directionality).

Route #6 – Lumberjack Training (Not Marked)

| Distance: 30.0 mi | Elevation: 2549 ft | Type: Flow XC Tech + Adventure |

Route: Limekiln > Walnut > Hobbs > Shelley > Hesitation > West Gate > Weedpatch > Limekiln — Optional: add 10 O’Clock Line + Crooked Creek Loop

This is a monster route designed for endurance riders and backcountry explorers. You can start from the park or from Crooked Creek if you want to add on remote trails in Yellowwood. 

Best for experienced riders with full-day ambitions.

Group Rides in the State Park

If you’re looking to connect with other riders, build confidence on the trails, or just want to explore the park alongside people who love mountain biking as much as you do, Brown County Bikes hosts free, seasonal group rides that are open to all skill levels.

These aren’t formal tours or clinics. They’re community rides designed to help locals and visitors alike ride together, discover new trail segments, and enjoy a low-pressure way to get out on the bike.

The group usually decides the route based on who shows up and what everyone’s up for, so beginners are welcome, and more experienced riders will still get a solid session in.

Group Ride Schedule (Seasonal)

Typically runs April through late October—weather and trail conditions permitting:

Weekly Co-Ed Ride

  • Wednesdays at 6:00 pm
  • Meet at Hoosier’s Nest in Brown County State Park

Monthly Women’s Ride

  • Second Friday of each month at 5:30 pm
  • Meet at the Upper Shelter, also inside the park

What to Know Ahead of Time

  • These are ‘no-drop’ rides (which means no one gets left behind due to slower speeds or mechanical issues) and are led by locals who know the trail system well.
  • Bring your own bike and helmet, or rent gear from Brown County Bikes. Rental options include full-suspension and e-mountain bikes, and the shop team can help make sure you’re set up comfortably.
  • Call or stop by Brown County Bikes to confirm trail status, meeting location, and any updates for the week before the ride.

Whether you’re a local who rides regularly, a first-time visitor just getting familiar with the park’s layout, new to mountain biking altogether, or somewhere in between, these rides are a great way to get rolling.

What to Know Before You Ride

Before you hit the trailhead, it’s worth reviewing a few practical details that’ll make your ride smoother, and help you avoid any surprises. 

Some of these rules are unique to Brown County State Park, and others are just smart trail etiquette that helps keep the system in great shape for everyone. To get a more complete picture of mountain biking in Brown County as a whole, check out my full guide here.

Trail Conditions & Closures

Brown County’s trails are extremely well built, but like most Midwest singletrack, they’re vulnerable to damage during freeze-thaw cycles and muddy conditions. Riding when the trails are too soft can leave ruts, widen the tread, and create long-term maintenance issues.

The Brown County Mountain Biking Association (BCMBA) updates conditions regularly:

  • BCMBA Facebook Page → The BCMBA changes the logo and color of their profile picture to reflect the overall trail status.
  • Trailforks App → Conditions often crowdsourced from riders in real time
  • Brown County Bikes → Local shop with good insight into what’s actually rideable

If the trails are closed or too wet, you can always pivot to road or gravel rides—check out my full MTB guide for suggestions on what to ride when trails are closed.

Four circular trail condition update logos used by Brown County Mountain Bike Association. Each features a bike handlebar and winding trail beneath trees. The green logo says 'Go Ride!', yellow says 'Sloppy in Spots', blue says 'Freeze–Thaw', and red says 'Closed'.

Permits & Access

There are two different passes to know about when it comes to getting into the park and riding its mountain bike trails: the Indiana State Parks entrance fee and the DNR Off-Road Cycling Permit.

  • Park Entrance Fee: All vehicles entering Brown County State Park must pay a daily entrance fee (currently $7 for in-state plates, $9 for out-of-state) or show an annual Indiana State Parks Pass ($50). You can purchase this at the gate or online.
  • Off-Road Cycling Permit: If you’re planning to ride anything beyond the designated beginner trails (like Pine Loop or Limekiln), you’ll also need a DNR Off-Road Cycling Permit. These are available as daily ($5) or annual ($20) options. You can buy them at the park entrance, at Brown County Bikes in downtown Nashville, or online through the Indiana DNR website.
    • Who Needs It? Riders using intermediate, advanced, or expert trails must have this permit. If you’re just sticking to the beginner loops, a cycling permit isn’t required—but you’ll still need the entrance pass for your vehicle.

Tip: If you’re planning more than a couple visits during the season, the annual passes (for both entrance and cycling) will pay for themselves quickly.

E-Bikes at Brown County State Park

Brown County State Park does allow Class 1 e-bikes (pedal-assist only, no throttle, with a top assist speed of 20mph) on its mountain bike trails. So you might see riders on e-MTBs while you’re riding, especially on longer loops or for repeat laps of trails like Hobbs Hollow.

If your bike is a Class 2 or 3 e-bike, however, it’s not allowed on the trails—even if it has pedal assist. When in doubt, check your specs or ask at a local shop.

Trail Etiquette

Most of the trails here are multi-use and bi-directional, which means you’ll share the path with other bikers, hikers, and maybe even an occasional horse. The park and local bike community follow the IMBA “Rules of the Trail”—these are a few of the most important:

  • Yield to uphill traffic – Climbing riders have the right of way, and bike riders should yield to both hikers and horseback riders.
  • Alert others when passing – A bell or “rider back!” goes a long way
  • Only ride open, marked trails – Never hop on a closed route
  • Avoid muddy trails – If you’re leaving ruts, it’s too wet to ride
  • Don’t cut switchbacks – It damages trail structure and causes erosion
  • Wear a helmet – Seriously.

If you’re new to trail riding, Brown County is a great place to learn—but these small things help keep it safe and fun for everyone.

The Brown County Barn Burner building at dusk, a modern wooden structure with signage for “Barn Burner” and “Brown County Bikes,” with a cyclist blurred in motion riding past.

Facilities, Rentals & Support

Whether you’re rolling in with a car full of gear or flying in and looking to rent everything locally, Brown County makes it easy to get what you need and feel supported throughout your ride.

Local Bike Shops & Rentals

Brown County Bikes

Located right in downtown Nashville, this is the go-to shop for all things mountain biking. They offer:

  • Bike rentals (including hardtail, full-suspension, and e-bikes)
  • Repair services
  • Bike fittings and adjustments
  • Private lessons and kids’ clinics (great for beginners or families, up to more advanced riders)

They’re friendly, knowledgeable, and well-connected with the trail community—plus, they’re a licensed retailer for the required DNR Off-Road Cycling Permits.

→ Visit Brown County Bikes

Danielle and Kate Nolan, owners of Brown County Bikes, smile and high-five in front of the Brown County Bikes building, with bikes parked nearby.

Q’s Bikes at Explore Brown County

While this location isn’t directly tied to the State Park trails, they’re worth knowing if you’re planning to visit eXplore Brown County, Hoosier National Forest, or want to try something different like fat tire bike rentals, shuttle laps, or guided rides.

→ Check out Q’s Bikes

Camping, Cabins & Lodging

If you’re planning a multi-day biking trip, staying right inside the park is a great way to maximize your time on trail. Lodging options include:

There are also dozens of vacation rentals, inns, and B&Bs just outside the park in downtown Nashville or around Brown County—you can find options ranging from budget-friendly to upscale.

Final Tips for Riding Brown County State Park

Brown County State Park offers one of the most well-rounded and thoughtfully built trail systems in the Midwest, but it also comes with its quirks. Here are a few final tips to help you get the most out of your ride:

  • Check trail conditions before you go. The trails here are well-maintained, but freeze-thaw cycles and rain can shut things down quickly. The best place to check is the Brown County Mountain Biking Association’s Facebook page, which posts daily updates on trail status, when needed.
  • Be honest about your skill level. These trails are no joke—especially if you’re coming from a flatter region. There’s nothing wrong with sticking to beginner or intermediate routes if you’re new or out of practice.
  • Plan for limited service. Cell coverage is spotty in the park, especially deeper in the system or over in Yellowwood. Download your maps and trail apps in advance, and make sure someone knows your general route if you’re riding alone.
  • Respect closures and trail etiquette. This trail system stays amazing because riders take care of it. Stay off closed trails, yield where needed, and ride within your ability so we can all keep enjoying it.

👉 Looking for more ways to round out your visit? Check out my post on Things to Do in Brown County for hikes, restaurants, kid-friendly stops, and other outdoor options to fill out your trip.