Dirt Bike Routes in Chiang Mai
All Routes (50)
The Helicopter Trail
A challenging and rewarding trail leading towards the Myanmar border, following technical single track and nice flowing double track. Thrilling views, cool forests, a bespoke coffee shop and helicopter pads.
Mae On to Mae Kampong
An accessible single track leading through the hills and forests of Eastern Chiang Mai to the quaint hill tribe village of Mae Kampong. Enjoy fast and flowing single track, steep rutted sections and a fun hill climb.
The Phrae Loop
A great loop through the forests of Northern Chiang Mai, leading to the small town of Phrae before looping back to Chiang Mai. An easy beginner ride with 4x4 roads suitable in all seasons.
Chom Thong, Mae Chaem and Tiger's Head
A fun, relatively easy (though potentially bush-wacky in some parts) ride into the hill of Chom Thong before heading into the jungle. Over-grown, fun adventurous, this trail will leave you talking about it weeks later.
Samoeng to Khun Win Offroad
A fun ride through the best parts of Samoeng and Khun Win. Ideal for beginners looking to explore the best areas of Chiang Mai for dirt riding.
The Mae Khanin River Run
Also known as The 1,000 Rivers or The River Run, this is an excellent beginner trail suitable for an easy morning. Starting in Hang Dong and winding up a scenic 4x4 trail up to an elephany sanctuary, this is a great break-in ride or a place to go if you are taking beginners for a ride.
The Old Elephant Trail
Hardly a dirt ride anymore, there is only a few kilometers of dirt left on this historic route between Chiang Mai and Mae Hong Son. However, it is an excellent ride, passing through the hills and fields of Northern Thailand.
Bamboo Creek and the Butterfly Trail
A fun single track ride through a bamboo grove, creek and forest. Great full day ride, plenty of varied terrain. Note: the national park closes during the dry season to prevent forest fires. Be aware of signs indicating restricted access. Fines and other penalties may apply.
The Ramming Tea Estate to Chiang Dao
A fun, easy 4x4 route through the tea plantations of the Ramming Tea Estate, leading to the cute riverside town of Muang Khong before ending in Chiang Dao
Lampang Fallen Trees Loop
A great 4x4 and single track loop through the hills of Lampang. Known for fallen trees, this loop will require you to push your bike over, under or around these obstacles.
Lampang Back-Roads
A great loop around the dirt and concrete roads of Northern Lampang, near Mae Kachan and Wang Nuea. Can get quite dusty in the dry season.
Phang Ma Pha and the Myanmar Border
An excellent dirt and concrete ride up through Phang Ma Pha (near the helicopter trail) coming to the Myanmar border. Commands stunning views of the surrounding countryside, including into Myanmar, this is an excellent way to explore the Northern frontier.
Chiang Mai to Pai Off-road - Option 1
A great ride to Pai via the dirt and concrete backroads.,
Red Sands Area
An easy beginner loop close to Chiang Mai. Perfect for an easy day or taking new riders out to explore.Next to the sticky waterfalls for a great activity afterwards or during a lunch stop.
Doi Mon Angket
A fun, fast ride up a scenic and forested mountain near Chiang Mai. 4x4 and farm trails predominate here, with a few single tracks available for exploration
The Jesus Trail
A fun, though challenging at time, adventure through the forested hills near Doi Inthanon. Starting at a statue of Jesus at a local church (hence the name), this single track trail winds up the mountains before finally joining a larger 4x4 road leading to a small village at the base of Doi Inthanon. A classic trail in Chiang Mai and a must visit at least once.
The Mae Chaem Western Dirt Loop
A great ride though dirt and concrete 4x4 roads around the Western side of Mae Chaem. Creeping up the hills behind Mae Chaem and offering stunning views of Doi Inthanon, this route takes you through farm roads, fields and villages.
The Road to Tha Koh Kha
A scenic concrete and 4x4 dirt road route leading to the remote Karen village of Tha Koh Kha. A great way to get to the Western border of Thailand and also featuring Karen hospitality. No hotels or homestays here, just camping. The villagers are extra ordinarily hospitable and will assist you if you need anything. A nearby waterfall is well worth a visit.
Doi Soi MaLai
An unforgettable ride up a rocky, rutted and at times, steep, ascent to the peak of Doi Soi Malai. Offering panoramic views of the surrounding hills and of the Bhumipol lake, formed from the Mae Ping river.
Chiang Mai to Nan via Backroads
A mixed ride of dirt 4x4, concrete and main roads leading from Chiang Mai to Nan. An excellent ride with varied surfaces. A must ride route.
The Mae On Warm Up Trail
A fun, rutted and rocky ascent that sits between Chiang Mai and the trails of Mae On proper. A great trail to ride before heading into the hills of Mae On.
The Sala Trail
A route up the North side of Doi Pui. A great rdie, easy, fun, shaded, and available whenever the park allows the trails to remain open. Typically closed during the burning season to combat forest fires, keep your eyes open for park closures before you ride this trail.
Mae Win Dirt Roads
A dirt trail from Mae Wang to nearby the Chom Thong Area
Mae Sariang to Mae Sam Laep
A beautiful ride near the Western Border of Thailand. From the town of Mae Sariang the route will take you through a national forest (be aware of closures) and then to the border town of Mae Sam Laep. A great ride and must visit.
Mae On Ridgeline Ridge
A challenging ascent of the Mae On hills and ending in Mae Kampong. Rutted, steep and quite challenging single track. Not advised to ride this track solo.
Tha Ta Fang and Mae Sam Laep
A ride from Mae Sariang through the national park to the abandoned border police station at Tha Ta Fang. A beautiful ride through the national park (be cautious of closures) and through remote Karen villages. A must ride trail.
Hauy Xai to Muang Long
A ride along the Mekhong river from the border town of Huay Xai to the small town of Muang Long, nesteled in the hills of Northern Laos. A great ride into the countryside that is far preferable to the main road.
Muang Long to Luang Namptha
A fun 4x4 dirt road nearing the Chinese border leading to the town of Luang Nampatha. A great ride.
Luang Namptha to Phongsaly
A mostly tarmac ride though with sections of dirt from Luang Namptha to Phongsaly.
Phongsaly to Muang Khua
An amazing ride from the Northern town of Muang Khua to the riverside town of Muang Khua.
Muang Khua to Nong Khiaw
A fantastic ride from Muang Khua to Nong Khiaw.
Nong Khiaw to Luang Prabang
A fun ride from Nong Khiaw to Luang Prabang
Muang Khong to Mae Taeng
A fun rip through the mountains of Chiang Dao.
Muang Khong to San Pak Khia
Explore the entirety of the area around Chiang Dao. From the town of Chiang Dao, into the mountains towards the town of San Pak Khia, where a series of farm tracks leads to Muang Khong. Here, head South to Mae Taeng.
Muang Ngoy to Nong Khiaw and then to Luang Prabang
A fun ride on 4x4 dirt roads up the river from Muang Ngoy to Nong Khiaw. From there, hiking to viewpoints in the hills affords an excellent view of the valley of Nong Khiaw. The route then proceeds South towards Luang Prabang
Samoeng to Ban Om Long (via Singletrack)
Rutted, steep, un-used and dry, this track is falling into disrepair. However, it is quite engaging still. A meandering track through the hill of Samoeng to the small village of Ban Om Long, this trail takes you through creeks, full in the rainy season and nearly dry in the winter. A hill climb section in the middle of the trail is the crux, but it is entirely doable, if you have proper tires and motorcycles.
Dirt From Doi Pui to Samoeng Town
A short 4x4 trail that has become disused and rutted. It runs through the hills and forests of the back-side of Doi Pui and then to Samoeng Town.
The Great Dirt West of Samoeng Ride (Ban Om Long to Ban Sop Win)
An exciting adventure ride of mostly 4x4 but also including some single track leading from Samoeng to Mae Win. A great ride through hills, forests and farm lands.
The Elephant Trail to Pai Off Road
An increasingly paved section of trail, the dirt sections here won't last too long. Leading from a key junction of the old Elephant Trail to the town of Pai, this route leads through the forests and hills South of Pai.
Muang Khong to Wiang Haeng
An easy ride from Muang Khong to Wiang Haeng following hills and rivers. Mostly through farm roads and community, this dirt track will most likely be paved soon.
Baan Plueng Klueng to Baan Lee Tong Ku
An absolutely spectacular ride from a small border outpost through a muddy and hilly track to the border community of Lee Tong Ku, home to a community of Karens who still hold pre-Christian and pre-Buddhist beliefs.
Houay Xai to Pak Beng
A dusty (or muddy) dirt road leading to the riverside town of Pak Beng. While the town isn't much, the hotels are nice and the views are spectacular.
Hauy Xai to Muang Long
A ride along the Mekhong river from the border town of Huay Xai to the small town of Muang Long, nesteled in the hills of Northern Laos. A great ride into the countryside that is far preferable to the main road.
Muang Long to Luang Namptha
A fun 4x4 dirt road nearing the Chinese border leading to the town of Luang Nampatha. A great ride.
Luang Namptha to Phongsaly
A mostly tarmac ride though with sections of dirt from Luang Namptha to Phongsaly.
Phongsaly to Muang Khua
An amazing ride from the Northern town of Muang Khua to the riverside town of Muang Khua.
Muang Khua to Nong Khiaw
A fantastic ride from Muang Khua to Nong Khiaw.
Nong Khiaw to Luang Prabang
A fun ride from Nong Khiaw to Luang Prabang
Muang Ngoy to Nong Khiaw and then to Luang Prabang
A fun ride on 4x4 dirt roads up the river from Muang Ngoy to Nong Khiaw. From there, hiking to viewpoints in the hills affords an excellent view of the valley of Nong Khiaw. The route then proceeds South towards Luang Prabang
Houay Xai to Pak Beng
A dusty (or muddy) dirt road leading to the riverside town of Pak Beng. While the town isn't much, the hotels are nice and the views are spectacular.
Route Map
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All Routes (50)
The Helicopter Trail
A challenging and rewarding trail leading towards the Myanmar border, following technical single track and nice flowing double track. Thrilling views, cool forests, a bespoke coffee shop and helicopter pads.
Mae On to Mae Kampong
An accessible single track leading through the hills and forests of Eastern Chiang Mai to the quaint hill tribe village of Mae Kampong. Enjoy fast and flowing single track, steep rutted sections and a fun hill climb.
The Phrae Loop
A great loop through the forests of Northern Chiang Mai, leading to the small town of Phrae before looping back to Chiang Mai. An easy beginner ride with 4x4 roads suitable in all seasons.
Chom Thong, Mae Chaem and Tiger's Head
A fun, relatively easy (though potentially bush-wacky in some parts) ride into the hill of Chom Thong before heading into the jungle. Over-grown, fun adventurous, this trail will leave you talking about it weeks later.
Samoeng to Khun Win Offroad
A fun ride through the best parts of Samoeng and Khun Win. Ideal for beginners looking to explore the best areas of Chiang Mai for dirt riding.
The Mae Khanin River Run
Also known as The 1,000 Rivers or The River Run, this is an excellent beginner trail suitable for an easy morning. Starting in Hang Dong and winding up a scenic 4x4 trail up to an elephany sanctuary, this is a great break-in ride or a place to go if you are taking beginners for a ride.
The Old Elephant Trail
Hardly a dirt ride anymore, there is only a few kilometers of dirt left on this historic route between Chiang Mai and Mae Hong Son. However, it is an excellent ride, passing through the hills and fields of Northern Thailand.
Bamboo Creek and the Butterfly Trail
A fun single track ride through a bamboo grove, creek and forest. Great full day ride, plenty of varied terrain. Note: the national park closes during the dry season to prevent forest fires. Be aware of signs indicating restricted access. Fines and other penalties may apply.
The Ramming Tea Estate to Chiang Dao
A fun, easy 4x4 route through the tea plantations of the Ramming Tea Estate, leading to the cute riverside town of Muang Khong before ending in Chiang Dao
Lampang Fallen Trees Loop
A great 4x4 and single track loop through the hills of Lampang. Known for fallen trees, this loop will require you to push your bike over, under or around these obstacles.
Lampang Back-Roads
A great loop around the dirt and concrete roads of Northern Lampang, near Mae Kachan and Wang Nuea. Can get quite dusty in the dry season.
Phang Ma Pha and the Myanmar Border
An excellent dirt and concrete ride up through Phang Ma Pha (near the helicopter trail) coming to the Myanmar border. Commands stunning views of the surrounding countryside, including into Myanmar, this is an excellent way to explore the Northern frontier.
Chiang Mai to Pai Off-road - Option 1
A great ride to Pai via the dirt and concrete backroads.,
Red Sands Area
An easy beginner loop close to Chiang Mai. Perfect for an easy day or taking new riders out to explore.Next to the sticky waterfalls for a great activity afterwards or during a lunch stop.
Doi Mon Angket
A fun, fast ride up a scenic and forested mountain near Chiang Mai. 4x4 and farm trails predominate here, with a few single tracks available for exploration
The Jesus Trail
A fun, though challenging at time, adventure through the forested hills near Doi Inthanon. Starting at a statue of Jesus at a local church (hence the name), this single track trail winds up the mountains before finally joining a larger 4x4 road leading to a small village at the base of Doi Inthanon. A classic trail in Chiang Mai and a must visit at least once.
The Mae Chaem Western Dirt Loop
A great ride though dirt and concrete 4x4 roads around the Western side of Mae Chaem. Creeping up the hills behind Mae Chaem and offering stunning views of Doi Inthanon, this route takes you through farm roads, fields and villages.
The Road to Tha Koh Kha
A scenic concrete and 4x4 dirt road route leading to the remote Karen village of Tha Koh Kha. A great way to get to the Western border of Thailand and also featuring Karen hospitality. No hotels or homestays here, just camping. The villagers are extra ordinarily hospitable and will assist you if you need anything. A nearby waterfall is well worth a visit.
Doi Soi MaLai
An unforgettable ride up a rocky, rutted and at times, steep, ascent to the peak of Doi Soi Malai. Offering panoramic views of the surrounding hills and of the Bhumipol lake, formed from the Mae Ping river.
Chiang Mai to Nan via Backroads
A mixed ride of dirt 4x4, concrete and main roads leading from Chiang Mai to Nan. An excellent ride with varied surfaces. A must ride route.
The Mae On Warm Up Trail
A fun, rutted and rocky ascent that sits between Chiang Mai and the trails of Mae On proper. A great trail to ride before heading into the hills of Mae On.
The Sala Trail
A route up the North side of Doi Pui. A great rdie, easy, fun, shaded, and available whenever the park allows the trails to remain open. Typically closed during the burning season to combat forest fires, keep your eyes open for park closures before you ride this trail.
Mae Win Dirt Roads
A dirt trail from Mae Wang to nearby the Chom Thong Area
Mae Sariang to Mae Sam Laep
A beautiful ride near the Western Border of Thailand. From the town of Mae Sariang the route will take you through a national forest (be aware of closures) and then to the border town of Mae Sam Laep. A great ride and must visit.
Mae On Ridgeline Ridge
A challenging ascent of the Mae On hills and ending in Mae Kampong. Rutted, steep and quite challenging single track. Not advised to ride this track solo.
Tha Ta Fang and Mae Sam Laep
A ride from Mae Sariang through the national park to the abandoned border police station at Tha Ta Fang. A beautiful ride through the national park (be cautious of closures) and through remote Karen villages. A must ride trail.
Hauy Xai to Muang Long
A ride along the Mekhong river from the border town of Huay Xai to the small town of Muang Long, nesteled in the hills of Northern Laos. A great ride into the countryside that is far preferable to the main road.
Muang Long to Luang Namptha
A fun 4x4 dirt road nearing the Chinese border leading to the town of Luang Nampatha. A great ride.
Luang Namptha to Phongsaly
A mostly tarmac ride though with sections of dirt from Luang Namptha to Phongsaly.
Phongsaly to Muang Khua
An amazing ride from the Northern town of Muang Khua to the riverside town of Muang Khua.
Muang Khua to Nong Khiaw
A fantastic ride from Muang Khua to Nong Khiaw.
Nong Khiaw to Luang Prabang
A fun ride from Nong Khiaw to Luang Prabang
Muang Khong to Mae Taeng
A fun rip through the mountains of Chiang Dao.
Muang Khong to San Pak Khia
Explore the entirety of the area around Chiang Dao. From the town of Chiang Dao, into the mountains towards the town of San Pak Khia, where a series of farm tracks leads to Muang Khong. Here, head South to Mae Taeng.
Muang Ngoy to Nong Khiaw and then to Luang Prabang
A fun ride on 4x4 dirt roads up the river from Muang Ngoy to Nong Khiaw. From there, hiking to viewpoints in the hills affords an excellent view of the valley of Nong Khiaw. The route then proceeds South towards Luang Prabang
Samoeng to Ban Om Long (via Singletrack)
Rutted, steep, un-used and dry, this track is falling into disrepair. However, it is quite engaging still. A meandering track through the hill of Samoeng to the small village of Ban Om Long, this trail takes you through creeks, full in the rainy season and nearly dry in the winter. A hill climb section in the middle of the trail is the crux, but it is entirely doable, if you have proper tires and motorcycles.
Dirt From Doi Pui to Samoeng Town
A short 4x4 trail that has become disused and rutted. It runs through the hills and forests of the back-side of Doi Pui and then to Samoeng Town.
The Great Dirt West of Samoeng Ride (Ban Om Long to Ban Sop Win)
An exciting adventure ride of mostly 4x4 but also including some single track leading from Samoeng to Mae Win. A great ride through hills, forests and farm lands.
The Elephant Trail to Pai Off Road
An increasingly paved section of trail, the dirt sections here won't last too long. Leading from a key junction of the old Elephant Trail to the town of Pai, this route leads through the forests and hills South of Pai.
Muang Khong to Wiang Haeng
An easy ride from Muang Khong to Wiang Haeng following hills and rivers. Mostly through farm roads and community, this dirt track will most likely be paved soon.
Baan Plueng Klueng to Baan Lee Tong Ku
An absolutely spectacular ride from a small border outpost through a muddy and hilly track to the border community of Lee Tong Ku, home to a community of Karens who still hold pre-Christian and pre-Buddhist beliefs.
Houay Xai to Pak Beng
A dusty (or muddy) dirt road leading to the riverside town of Pak Beng. While the town isn't much, the hotels are nice and the views are spectacular.
Hauy Xai to Muang Long
A ride along the Mekhong river from the border town of Huay Xai to the small town of Muang Long, nesteled in the hills of Northern Laos. A great ride into the countryside that is far preferable to the main road.
Muang Long to Luang Namptha
A fun 4x4 dirt road nearing the Chinese border leading to the town of Luang Nampatha. A great ride.
Luang Namptha to Phongsaly
A mostly tarmac ride though with sections of dirt from Luang Namptha to Phongsaly.
Phongsaly to Muang Khua
An amazing ride from the Northern town of Muang Khua to the riverside town of Muang Khua.
Muang Khua to Nong Khiaw
A fantastic ride from Muang Khua to Nong Khiaw.
Nong Khiaw to Luang Prabang
A fun ride from Nong Khiaw to Luang Prabang
Muang Ngoy to Nong Khiaw and then to Luang Prabang
A fun ride on 4x4 dirt roads up the river from Muang Ngoy to Nong Khiaw. From there, hiking to viewpoints in the hills affords an excellent view of the valley of Nong Khiaw. The route then proceeds South towards Luang Prabang
Houay Xai to Pak Beng
A dusty (or muddy) dirt road leading to the riverside town of Pak Beng. While the town isn't much, the hotels are nice and the views are spectacular.