Payette Rim Loop

Dogs Off-leash

E-Bikes Unknown

This trail is what Bend used to be prior to being developed. There are open meadows, vistas of Payette Lake, mellow grades and deer and elk all around. The trail borders and enters into the USFS land periodically, but mainly stays on IDL lands on the rim above the lake.

There are a few rock gardens on the way down...all do-able for the more experienced riders, but also an easy walk-around for anyone else. There is also a luge-track descent to the creek crossing. Let it fly!

Stick to FS 451 and FS 459 for the climb. There are a few singletrack shortcuts with a high probability of getting lost. Signage is a problem on this trail due to the mixed land management.

Drive north on Hwy 55 approximately a mile after Pueblo Lindo restaurant on the north side of the road. Turn right on Brundage Lookout Road - FS Road 451. Go approximately 1.5 miles to an obvious trailhead with log fencing. This is usually called "the corrals" and is also a trailhead for the Bear Basin trail area. Bear Basin is also a great way to spend a few hours on some of the best singletrack in the valley. Park here.
Or, from McCall, ride west on Hwy 55 northbound to Pueblo Lindo restaurant and hop on the Bear Basin Connector. At the upper end of the connector, turn right (north) on Brundage Lookout Road and continue until you arrive at the eastern trailhead for the Bear Basin trail network.

Ride north on FS Road 451 and climb for 3.5 miles. There are several turnouts and wide areas, but only one after an especially sustained climb with a red gate on the right- FS 459. Turn right on FS459 and continue mostly downhill for 1.0 mile.

At mile 9.8, look for the large granite cairn and boulder pile which marks the beginning of the descending singletrack. Turn south/right to begin the descending singletrack. At mile 11, you'll cross the creek from above and continue out the singletrack at mile _ look for an unmarked fork. Bear right and begin a few short climbs that will return you to the trailhead. Go have a beer, you just finished the Payette Rim ride from town and didn't get lost!

This trail is the result of a lot of work from the local mountain bike crew. They've put tons of time into making this what it is. Please respect the trail, others and feel free to clear some sticks out of the trail every so often.