The Old Smugglers Mountain Biking in Suthep National Park - Chiang Mai Thailand

Chiang Mai Adventure

Mountain Biking in Suthep National Park (The Old Smugglers Route; Cross Country Ride with downhill), National forest and plantation access dirt road with ruts, rock gardens, mud and sand traps, long steep down hills, rarely used by small farm vehicles, short steep uphills, great if you are in shape. Very rewarding.

Our 4 wheel drive transportation takes us to the top of Doi Pui mountain ( 5400 feet) above the Palace and Doi Suthep Temple. After viewing Doi Pui Village below and some stretching, we prepare our Cycles and get ready to ride down to our favorite coffee plantation . This first part of the trip helps us to evaluate your riding ability and we talk about techniques to make your downhill cycling even more enjoyable. Everyone is encouraged to practice the newly learned techniques.

After the coffee break we keep riding down hill until we reach our route west into the next valley. Fantastic forest riding with great views from open plantations, are followed by a break at a refreshing mountain creek.
With only short steep up hills we wind our way across the valley, past small farm houses while witnessing the local hill tribes in there natural environment. Then we ride further down hill between plantations and forest with beautiful pine trees changing to eucalyptus growth on the way down to the Mae Rim Valley floor. The rarely used forest road presents the rider with plenty of challenges. This trip ends at beautiful Wat Ampawan, where our driver is waiting for us. A late lunch at a secluded Orchid Farm with a small lake, gives us a chance to reflect on significant events during this eventful day.

This forest /farm road is hardly traveled and is perfect for mountain biking, allowing speed, but challenging your riding abilities. This is very secluded riding and you will feel deep appreciation for the local ecology.

More Information
Trip: Doi Pui to Wat Ampawan , Maesa Valley
Location: Mountain 5400 feet elevation , above Chiang Mai
Biking time: Approx: 4 hrs, 35 km
Elevation change : From 5400 feet (1600m) down to 1200 feet (400 m)
Riding Conditions A: 85% downhill, rarely used dirt road
Riding Conditions B: 99% downhill, 5% tamac, 95% used dirt road
Flora: Pine forest, jungle, plantations
Levels: Motivated beginners through experts