Parliament Trails MTB Guide - Nevada City, California
Tucked into the forests just outside Nevada City, the Parliament Trails have quickly become one of California's premier mountain bike destinations. Designed specifically for mountain bikes, this purpose-built trail network offers everything from beginner-friendly flow to some of the biggest jump lines in Northern California.
Whether you're chasing perfectly sculpted berms on Talon Show, boosting jumps on Shimmer, sending the massive features on Permagrin Falcon, or exploring newer additions like Thunder Chicken and Hobgoblin, there's something here for riders of every ability.
The Parliament network is part of the larger Harmony Ridge trail system, giving riders access to additional favorites like Hoot Trail, Miner's Trail, and Scotts Flat Trail. The directional downhill trails are connected by the well-designed Unkindness climbing trail, allowing riders to stack lap after lap without ever feeling like the climb is a chore. The Parliament Network was developed as California's first directional, mountain bike-only trail system.
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Location: Nevada City, California
Difficulty: Beginner to Advanced
Best Time to Ride: November through June
Bike Type: Mountain Bike & Class 1 eMTB
Parking: Free
Restrooms: Harmony Ridge Market
Water: Harmony Ridge Market
Trailforks: Parliament Trails
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The easiest place to start your ride is Harmony Ridge Market, located along Highway 20 just a few minutes east of downtown Nevada City.
The market serves as the unofficial hub for the trail system and is one of the most convenient places to prepare for your ride.
Harmony Ridge Market
Address: 18848 CA-20, Nevada City, CA 95959
Amenities include:
Free parking
Restrooms
Drinking water
Snacks
Fresh sandwiches
Cold drinks
Ride supplies
From the market it's a short pedal to the climbing trail that accesses the Parliament network.
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Talon Show (Blue)
The perfect warm-up trail. A one-way, bike-only flow trail packed with smooth berms, rollable jumps, and optional lines that make it fun for a wide range of riders.
Shimmer (Blue)
A fast, flowing trail featuring berms, drops, jumps, and optional gap lines. Great for riders looking to build confidence on larger features.
Permagrin Falcon (Black)
The premier jump line at Parliament Trails. Fast, smooth, and loaded with big jumps, rollers, berms, and drops, it's a must-ride for experienced jump riders.
Hobgoblin (Blue)
A hand-built trail with a more natural feel, featuring playful jumps, drops, and technical features that continue to evolve over time.
Scotts Flat Trail (Blue)
A mellow downhill trail with flowing berms and smaller jumps. A good option for riders looking for a more relaxed descent.
Hoot Trail (Green)
A fun two-way, multi-use trail that's perfect for beginners. Smooth flow and optional small jumps make it enjoyable for riders of all skill levels.
Thunder Chicken (Black)
A short but action-packed jump trail with both tabletop and gap-jump lines. An excellent spot for riders who love catching air.
Miner's Trail (Blue)
A more natural and technical trail with rock features, optional jumps, and old-school singletrack character that contrasts nicely with the machine-built flow trails.
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If you're visiting Parliament Trails for the first time, I'd recommend this progression:
Talon Show
Shimmer
Hoot Trail
Hobgoblin
Permagrin Falcon (if you're comfortable with larger jumps)
Thunder Chicken
This route lets you gradually build speed and confidence before tackling the biggest features.
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The best riding is typically from late fall through early summer (November–June) when temperatures are cooler and the dirt has excellent grip.
During summer, expect warmer temperatures and looser conditions, especially during extended dry periods.
Always check current trail conditions before riding and avoid the trails immediately after heavy rain to help protect the hard work of local trail builders. BONC regularly posts trail updates and conditions.
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BONC (Bicyclists of Nevada County)
The Parliament Trails wouldn't exist without BONC.
Since 1993, this volunteer-powered nonprofit has built, maintained, and advocated for many of Nevada County's best mountain bike trails, including the Parliament network. BONC organizes trail work days, coordinates with land managers, and continues expanding the local trail system. Donations and memberships directly support trail building, maintenance, tools, and future projects.
Website: www.bonc.org
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You Bet Bike Shop
Before or after your ride, stop by You Bet Bike Shop.
Whether you need a quick repair, replacement parts, riding gear, or local trail advice, they're a great resource for riders visiting Nevada City.
Website: www.youbetbike.com
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Harmony Ridge Market
The perfect place to fuel up before your ride or grab lunch afterward.
Known for fresh sandwiches, snacks, drinks, and friendly service, it's become a gathering place for local riders heading into the trail network.
Jernigan's Tap House & Grill
If you've earned a post-ride burger and craft beer, Jernigan's is hard to beat.
Their handmade burgers, locally sourced ingredients, rotating craft beer selection, and relaxed atmosphere make it one of the best post-ride stops in Nevada City.
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Please help keep Parliament Trails one of California's best riding destinations.
Stay on designated trails.
Ride directional trails in the correct direction.
Yield to hikers and equestrians on shared trails like Hoot.
Pack out all trash.
Respect trail closures and wet-weather conditions.
Support BONC through donations, memberships, or trail work days.
Grab a meal or supplies from local businesses like Harmony Ridge Market and Jernigan's after your ride.
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Are eMTBs allowed? Yes. Class 1 eMTBs are permitted on the Parliament Trails.
Is Parliament Trails beginner friendly? Yes. Hoot Trail provides an excellent introduction, while Talon Show is a fantastic next step for riders progressing their skills.
What's the best jump trail? Permagrin Falcon offers the biggest jump line, while Thunder Chicken provides an excellent shorter session trail.
Where should I park? Harmony Ridge Market is the most convenient starting point.
Is parking free? Yes.