When the technical shuttle runs throughout the Lost Sierra prove too demanding, Mt. Hough offers a welcome change of pace about an hour north. This trail prioritizes flow over technical challenge, delivering 4,200 feet of smooth descending that accommodates intermediate riders while still providing plenty of speed for advanced cyclists. The contrast with nearby technical epics is immediately apparent—instead of constantly navigating rock sections and root drops, you'll find yourself on buff singletrack that rewards momentum and line choice over bike handling skills.
The trail opens with natural, wide singletrack that maintains good speed through rolling terrain and gentle turns. Midway through the descent, the character shifts to purpose-built flow trail featuring banked turns, small jumps, and sculpted features designed to maintain speed. The trail does include about 400 feet of climbing spread across the middle sections—brief uphill stretches that break up the otherwise continuous descent. While these climbs feel somewhat out of place after extended downhill riding, they're topographically necessary to connect the ridgelines and access the lower mountain's best descending terrain.
The generally non-technical nature of Mt. Hough allows riders to carry significant speed, particularly through the straighter upper sections where steep grades combine with smooth tread. However, the trail demands attention as high-speed sections can quickly transition into tighter, more technical passages winding through dense tree cover. Riders who maintain appropriate speed for conditions will find Mt. Hough delivers consistent flow and entertainment value, while those who push the envelope will discover that even "intermediate" trails can provide legitimate thrills when ridden at the limit.
