Mountain Biking Dolomites: Best Trails 2026

The Dolomites are one of the most sought-after mountain biking destinations in the world. With trails winding through larch forests, high plateaus overlooking UNESCO World Heritage peaks and technical descents that will test your limits, this region offers a unique experience for every kind of rider. San Vigilio di Marebbe, the gateway to the Fanes-Senes-Braies Nature Park, is the perfect base for your two-wheeled adventures.

Why the Dolomites for MTB?

The Val Badia valley and South Tyrol have invested heavily in mountain biking infrastructure in recent years. The trail network is vast, well-signposted and maintained. Summer lifts carry bikers and their bikes to high elevations, letting you focus on the descents. And after a day in the saddle, South Tyrolean cuisine makes every effort worthwhile.

The Fanes-Senes-Braies Nature Park, accessible directly from San Vigilio, offers over 50 km of mountain bike trails with views stretching from the Tofane peaks to the Cunturines Group.

Best MTB Trails 2026

1. Fanes Loop — Panoramic (Intermediate)

Distance: 35 km | Elevation: 1,200 m | Duration: 4-5 hours

A classic loop ride starting from San Vigilio that cuts through the heart of the Fanes-Senes-Braies Nature Park. You climb towards Rifugio Pederue, continue across the Fanes plateau with its alpine lakes, and return along the Val di Rudo. The plateau section, with marmots darting between rocks, is simply magical.

2. Plan de Corones Trail — Enduro (Advanced)

Distance: 15 km (descent) | Elevation: 1,300 m | Duration: 2-3 hours

Plan de Corones (Kronplatz) is one of the most important enduro centres in the Alps. The gondola takes you to the summit at 2,275 metres, where several trails branch off with bermed corners, roots, technical sections and jumps. The 360-degree panorama from the top is unmatched. Perfect for adrenaline seekers.

3. Braies Valley — Cross Country (Easy-Intermediate)

Distance: 25 km | Elevation: 600 m | Duration: 2-3 hours

A route that takes in the famous Lake Braies (Pragser Wildsee), one of the most photographed lakes in the Alps. The trail follows the valley on well-packed dirt, suitable even for less experienced riders. Ideal for a half-day outing with a lunch stop at the lake.

4. Alpine Hut Trail — Gravel/MTB (Easy)

Distance: 20 km | Elevation: 400 m | Duration: 2 hours

An easy, scenic loop connecting the alpine huts above San Vigilio. Perfect for families and beginners, with food stops at huts serving homemade canederli, speck and strudel. A gentle way to discover the mountains.

5. Passo delle Erbe Loop — Panoramic (Intermediate-Advanced)

Distance: 40 km | Elevation: 1,500 m | Duration: 5-6 hours

A demanding but rewarding route climbing to Passo delle Erbe (2,003 m) with views of the Sass de Putia and the Odle peaks. The ascent is long but rideable; the single-track descent is pure fun. For fit riders.

After a day in the saddle, treat yourself to a completely different thrill: the Adrenaline Adventures zipline. Flying at 80 km/h above the Dolomite valleys is the ultimate way to cap off an adventure day.

Bike Rental in San Vigilio

Don't have your own MTB? No problem. San Vigilio and the surrounding area offer several rental centres:

Hardtail MTB: from EUR 35/day — ideal for easy trails and gravel roads
Full suspension MTB: from EUR 55/day — for technical trails and descents
E-MTB: from EUR 65/day — enjoy the scenery without exhausting yourself
Kids' bikes and child seats: available on request

Most rentals include helmet, repair kit and trail maps. We recommend booking ahead during July and August.

Practical Tips for 2026

Season: high-altitude trails are rideable from mid-June to late September, depending on snow conditions.
Lifts: most open mid-June and close mid-September. Check Plan de Corones schedules online.
Weather: start early in the morning. Afternoon thunderstorms in summer are frequent and can be severe.
Trail etiquette: yield to hikers, stay on marked trails, don't disturb wildlife.
Protection: helmet mandatory, knee pads and gloves recommended for technical trails.

MTB and Zipline: Double the Adrenaline

For a summer of adventure in the Dolomites you'll never forget, combine mountain biking with the zipline. While MTB takes you through valleys and forests under your own power, the zipline lets you soar above it all with 7 spectacular lines and 3 km of flight. For groups of biking friends, we offer special rates.

Check Zipline Prices

Getting There

San Vigilio di Marebbe is easily reached from the Brenner motorway (A22), exit Bressanone. If you're bringing your own bike, ample parking is available in the village centre. Find all the details in our guide to San Vigilio.