The shuttle-based, nonprofit Panhandle Bike Ranch pedals forward amidst support and opposition.
By Barry Campbell
Cover photo courtesy of Kruz Robles
Sandpoint is evolving into a first-rate biking destination, and its mountain biking trails regularly draw riders from all over the Northwest and beyond. Hidden away in the forested hills high above Lake Pend Oreille, Panhandle Bike Ranch is quietly—or at least trying to do it quietly—redefining what a community-driven mountain bike park can be.
Built from the ground up by long-time riders Jennifer and Scott Kalbach, the ranch is equal parts passion project, recreation hub and gathering place for riders of all ages and abilities. The idea began simply enough. When the Kalbachs purchased the property in Sagle, their initial plan was to simply build trails for their family and friends. Mountain biking had long been central to their lives—both of their kids raced, and weekends revolved around riding.
But standing on the land and taking in its sweeping views, the family realized it was something special. “This is too amazing to keep to ourselves,” Jennifer Kalbach explains. “We wanted to share it with the community and give people a place that’s solely dedicated to bikes.”
NOT SO FAST
The park seems to represent an emotional, modern-day North Idaho NIMBY (not in my backyard) conundrum. The Kalbachs received a Conditional Use Permit (CUP) from Bonner County for the park and built the trail system in 2023 and 2024, with an opening planned for spring 2025. However, a district judge revoked the park’s permit last June.
Local opponents stood against the park for a variety of reasons, including increased traffic and associated dust, wildlife disruption and potential safety issues they say will negatively impact the rural area and property values. The issue, which centers on zoning and property usage regulations, will likely continue to play out in county commissioner meetings and courtrooms in coming months. The Kalbachs have incurred plenty of added costs and delays from the situation but have the support of many in the area, including local riders.
In June, the park started operating as a nonprofit, supported by donations, with a strong emphasis on access and education. The park hosts youth camps, veterans ride days, women’s clinics and beginner lesson series designed to demystify trail riding. A portion of donations is set aside for scholarships, helping ensure that cost isn’t a barrier for local kids who want to ride.
The professionally designed, progressive trail system is built to serve everyone from first-time riders to seasoned downhill enthusiasts. A long green trail forms the backbone of the park, with blue trails branching off and looping back in. Riders can test their skills incrementally, building confidence before stepping up in difficulty. “We’ve had four-year-olds and 65-year-olds ride the same trail,” Kalbach says. “That’s what we wanted—something approachable but still exciting.”
DELIVERING ADRENALINE
For advanced riders, the park delivers challenge as well. Flow trails, technical singletrack and jump lines have earned the ranch national attention, including recognition from Singletracks.com for one of its trails, B90. Panhandle Bike Ranch’s shuttle system creates a uniquely social experience—bikers often swap trail tips and sometimes find new riding partners aboard the shuttle.
Looking ahead, the Kalbachs have ambitious plans. Additional shuttle capacity will unlock new terrain higher on the mountain, including a top-to-bottom downhill trail. Skills-development features like airbag jump training are also in the works, along with expanded volunteer programs for trail work, bike patrol and instruction support.
In a region increasingly recognized for its outdoor recreation, Panhandle Bike Ranch stands out not just for its trails but for its ethos. Built by riders, shaped by community and grounded in a belief that outdoor spaces should be shared, it’s a place where progression—on the bike and off—is the ultimate goal.
Panhandle Bike Ranch now operates as a 501 c3 non-profit organization.
