MTBProject.com ranked Around the Mountain the #1 mountain bike trail in Idaho.  The loop is just under 10 miles and 1500 feet of ascent.  The trails ride on several ridges that offer miles of views of Boise, the Treasure Valley, and the Sawtooth Mountains.

Start at Simplot Lodge and climb up the switchbacks on Deer Point trail that follows the ski lift.  in just over a mile, the trail connects to Around the Mountain Trail.  Turn right at the junction to follow Around the Mountain. Enjoy the views on the climb up to North Shafer Butte Road.  Continue on the trail as it descends around Doe Point for two miles.

 

Jose Cervantes on a Dirty Soles group run around the mountain.

 

Cross a National Forest Road and begin another gradual climb, this time with views to the east and the Sawtooths. The trail then goes under the Pine Creek Chairlift that summits Shafer Butte.  Climb for another mile to the Northside of the loop where Mores Mountain comes into view.

The trail drops down under the Superior Express lift before climbing again to Pioneer Lodge.  Around the Mountain ends here, so take the Morningstar Trail to connect back to Simplot Lodge and fun descent to the finish.