Nevada Trails to Rails Beginner & Intermediate Bike and Hike Tour

Nevada Trails to Rails Beginner & Intermediate Bike and Hike Tour: A Deep Dive

If you’re on the hunt for a mix of stunning landscapes, lively towns, and some well-grown trail networks, the Nevada Trails to Rails tour by Bindestiff Tours offers a captivating seven-day journey. Designed at an intermediate level, it balances adventurous biking with scenic hikes, providing an unvarnished look at Nevada’s rugged charm. With a focus on authentic trails, historic sights, and comfortable lodging, this package offers a well-rounded taste for active travelers eager to see Nevada from a different angle.

A notable consideration is the group size, which is limited to just 8 travelers. This intimate setup keeps the experience personal and engaging but requires booking well in advance, especially during peak seasons. Also, since it’s geared toward moderate fitness levels, folks who think light walking or biking involves a bit of effort will find themselves comfortably challenged, without feeling overwhelmed.

What we love about this tour is its hearty blend of professional guides, authentic trail adventures, delicious regional meals, and visits to iconic sites like Great Basin National Park with Lehman Cave. On the flip side, one potential hiccup is the physical activity schedule—days pack in a lot, from early mornings to full afternoon riding or hiking, which might wear out less energetic travelers.

Highlights of the Nevada Trails to Rails Tour

• Expert-led mountain biking on diverse Nevada trails suited for mid-range skill levels
• Historic and scenic stops, including Ely’s old railroad town and Ward Charcoal Ovens
• Visit to Great Basin National Park, with a cave tour highlighting Nevada’s geology
• Authentic local dining experiences, showcasing regional flavors after active days
• Private transportation ensuring smooth transitions between stops
• Beautiful overnight stays in comfortable 3-star hotels

In-Depth Look at the Itinerary

Day 1: Introduction & Kershaw Ryan State Park

The adventure kicks off at the Alexis Park Hotel in Las Vegas where a quick welcome sets the tone. After fitting your full suspension mountain bike, you’ll head through Nevada’s desert scenery towards Caliente. Here, your guides introduce you to the terrain with a half-day ride around Kershaw Ryan State Park, exploring the 14 miles of trails in Kershaw Canyon.

Riders tell us they loved the flowy single tracks, perfect for gaining confidence or just enjoying some fast sweeping turns. The picnic lunch provides fuel to savor this impressive canyon environment, leaving a sense of anticipation for what’s ahead.

Day 2: Mountain Biking in Ella Mountain & Barnes Canyon

This day dives into Nevada’s more rugged trails in Caliente. With a ride of approximately 15-20 miles, you explore diverse terrain from beginner-friendly flow trails to challenge-loving downhill sections. Our reviews reveal how guides tailor the route—some days may be more technical, but most guests appreciate the variety and the stunning views of the Teepee Rocks and the unmistakable soil rainbow.

You’re in the capable hands of guides who focus on safety and enjoyment, ensuring each rider finds their perfect balance between challenge and fun.

Day 3: Discovering Ely and Cathedral Gorge

A scenic drive to Ely gets you introduced to Nevada’s ghostly mining history, but the real highlight is Cathedral Gorge State Park. Here, a short hike among the slot canyons leaves everyone awestruck—some compare it to a natural cathedral. Known as a “hidden gem,” this spot offers a feeling of stepping into another world.

Post-lunch, you explore Ely with its vintage rail vibe—perfect for history buffs—and visit Ward Charcoal Ovens, where fully intact metal ovens tell tales from the 19th-century silver rush. One reviewer called Ely “an incredible and friendly town” that complements the rugged landscape.

Day 4: Riding Ely & Ward Mountain Trails

Midweek brings a half-day mountain bike session on Ward Mountain, with trails like Ice Plant offering mild to moderate climbs amid forests of pinyon-juniper. Riders rave about the “adventure riding” feel, with fast descents and rocky sections providing variety.

The connection between the town and highland trails is seamless, and guides curate the route to suit all levels, keeping the experience inclusive but engaging.

Day 5: Cave Lake Relaxed Ride and Scenic Looping

One of the best-loved days—a more relaxed ride in Cave Lake State Park blends long descents and moderate climbs, with options to extend or shorten routes. Trails here range from 3 to 12 miles, often taking you up into forested areas with limestone cliffs and then flowing back to the lake level.

After a scenic lunch at a favorite local food truck, you explore a different trail loop, which offers multiple ecosystems—deserts, forests, lakes—that exemplify Nevada’s ecological diversity. Travelers report that the trails’ diversity keeps the ride engaging.

Day 6: Great Basin National Park & Lehman Cave

The tour’s highlight is the visit to Nevada’s sole national park. A ranger-guided tour of Lehman Cave provides a fascinating window into local geology, cave formations, and Nevada’s natural treasures. Many guests note how the cave’s formations add a magical element—they even compare it to visiting a “natural cathedral” underground.

Post-tour, a special farm-to-table lunch in Baker rounds out the day. In the afternoon, you do a short 3- to 5-mile ride near Sacramento Pass, giving a gentle finish to the full active experience.

Day 7: Historic Rail & Reflection

The last day is all about Nevada’s railroad heritage with a 90-minute steam train journey at the Nevada Northern Railway Museum. It’s a fitting throwback that caps your active trip with a relaxed, scenic ride. After a familiar town lunch and optional shopping, you head back to Las Vegas, arriving around 6 pm for debrief and relaxed reflection.

What Travelers Appreciate Most

Based on reviews, guided expertise stands out—”the staff were incredibly helpful and knowledgeable,” many said. The tours emphasize stunning scenery—from alpine forests and canyons to desert panoramas—that make each day a visual feast. Food and local eats also receive high marks; guests enjoy regional dishes after strenuous days, with some praising the variety and quality of meals—falafel and salads included.

Many mention how the trails in Ely felt like hidden treasures only accessible with a guide, making this a trek that’s both adventurous and informative. The balance between riding and shorter hikes offers some flexibility, perfect for those wanting just enough activity without exhaustion.

Price and Value

At almost $4,000 per person, this tour isn’t pocket change, but it’s packed with included amenities—hotel accommodation, meals, park entries, and guided excursions—all curated for convenience and quality. For active travelers craving an authentic Nevada adventure—minus the hassle of logistics—the value is clear. You’re paying for expert guides, expertly chosen routes, comfortable lodgings, and a thoughtfully designed itinerary that maximizes outdoor experience.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This trip is ideal for moderately fit outdoor lovers with a taste for exploring less-traveled trails, exquisite landscapes, and historic towns. It’s perfect if you enjoy guided experiences, good company, and a mix of biking, hiking, and cultural stops. Less suitable for those seeking a very leisurely vacation or those with physical limitations, given the full active days.

Final Thoughts: Who Should Book?

If you want to experience Nevada beyond Las Vegas—seeing its natural beauty, historic sites, and vibrant mountain and desert landscapes—this tour offers a well-tailored package. Its small group size, expert guidance, and balanced activities make it a secure choice for those looking for adventure with a good measure of comfort.

Travelers who appreciate well-organized days, regional cuisine, and a combination of outdoor activity and culture will find this experience rewarding. Conversely, those craving a purely relaxing or less physically demanding trip might prefer options with fewer active days.

The Nevada Trails to Rails tour, offered by Bindestiff Tours, delivers a genuine taste of Nevada’s scenic, scenic, trail-rich, and fascinating corners—a solid pick for active travelers with curiosity and a sense of adventure.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
The tour is designed for intermediate riders. Beginners with some fitness should enjoy it, but complete novices might find some days a bit challenging.

Are bikes included in the price?
Yes, the cost covers full suspension mountain bikes, which are properly fitted and maintained throughout the trip.

What are the lodging accommodations like?
Guests stay in comfortable 3-star hotels with twin or private rooms, providing a cozy base after active days.

Can dietary restrictions be accommodated?
Vegetarian meals are available upon request, and meal options at the included meals are flexible enough to cater to common dietary needs.

What is the group size?
The tour limits participants to just 8 travelers, ensuring personalized guidance and small-group interactions.

Are additional activities or meals included?
Breakfasts are included (six), and the main activities are covered, but evening meals and personal snacks are not included, so plan accordingly or enjoy as advised.

Whether you’re seeking a Nevada adventure packed with bike rides, awe-inspiring vistas, cozy towns, and a touch of history, this tour offers a thoughtful, engaging way to see some of what makes this state special. It’s a trip that weighs adventure and comfort in just the right balance—making it a compelling choice for active travelers looking to turn miles into memories.