Pisgah National Forest is a mountain bike paradise, with over 160,000 acres of land and over 300 miles of singletrack trails that wind through lush forests, over rocky terrain, and past stunning waterfalls. Whether you’re a beginner or an expert, there’s a trail in Pisgah National Forest that’s perfect for you. Here are the top 10 mountain bike trails in Pisgah National Forest near Brevard, NC:
Black Mountain Trail: Black Mountain Trail is one of the most iconic trails in Pisgah National Forest, and for good reason. The trail is a challenging 7-mile climb to the top of Black Mountain, with technical features and stunning views of the surrounding mountains. The trail is rated as difficult, but the reward is well worth the effort.
Bennett Gap Trail: Bennett Gap Trail is another classic Pisgah trail, with technical features and steep descents. The trail is rated as difficult, with rocky sections and steep drops, but the views from the top are worth the effort. The trail is a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
Avery Creek Trail: Avery Creek Trail is a fast and flowy trail that’s perfect for those looking for a more mellow ride. The trail winds through lush forests and crosses several streams, with plenty of opportunities to get some air. The trail is rated as intermediate.
Sycamore Cove Trail: Sycamore Cove Trail is a fun and flowy trail that winds along the Davidson River. The trail is rated as intermediate, with plenty of berms and rollers that will have you grinning from ear to ear. The trail is also a great place to cool off on a hot summer day, as there are several spots where you can dip your toes in the river.
Pilot Rock Trail: Pilot Rock Trail is a challenging trail that offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains. The trail is rated as difficult, with technical features and steep climbs, but the reward is well worth the effort. The trail is less crowded than some of the other trails in Pisgah, making it a great place to escape the crowds.
Farlow Gap Trail: Farlow Gap Trail is a technical trail that’s not for the faint of heart. The trail is rated as difficult, with steep drops and rocky sections that require a high level of skill to navigate. The trail is a favorite among advanced riders looking for a challenge.
Laurel Mountain Trail: Laurel Mountain Trail is a fast and flowy trail that’s perfect for those looking for a fun ride. The trail is rated as intermediate, with plenty of berms and rollers that will have you grinning from ear to ear. The trail is less crowded than some of the other trails in Pisgah, making it a great place to escape the crowds.
Daniel Ridge Trail: Daniel Ridge Trail is a fun and flowy trail that’s perfect for those looking for a more mellow ride. The trail winds through lush forests and crosses several streams, with plenty of opportunities to get some air. The trail is rated as intermediate.
Pink Beds Loop: Pink Beds Loop is a scenic trail that winds through a high-elevation forest. The trail is rated as intermediate, with some technical features and steep climbs. The trail is a great place to spot wildlife, including deer and wild turkeys.
Buckwheat Knob Trail: Buckwheat Knob Trail is a challenging trail that offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains. The trail is rated as difficult, with technical features and steep climbs, but the reward is well worth the effort. The trail is less crowded than some of the other trails in Pisgah, making it a great place to escape the crowds.
While these are top 10 mountain bike trails in Pisgah National Forest, there are plenty more to explore during a visit. After all, Pisgah National Forest is a mountain biker’s paradise, with a variety of trails for all skill levels. Whether you’re looking for flowy singletrack, technical descents, or stunning views of the surrounding mountains, Pisgah has something for everyone. So come on out and explore the trails, and see why Pisgah National Forest is one of the best places to ride a mountain bike in the country.
Why Is Mountain Biking So Popular in Brevard, NC?
Mountain biking in Pisgah National Forest is popular for several reasons. First, Pisgah National Forest is home to over 300 miles of singletrack trails, making it one of the largest trail systems in the country. The trails wind through lush forests, over rocky terrain, and past stunning waterfalls, offering a variety of terrain for riders to explore.
Second, Pisgah National Forest is known for its challenging and technical trails. The terrain is rocky and rooty, with steep climbs and descents, making it a favorite among advanced riders looking for a challenge. However, there are also plenty of trails for beginners and intermediate riders, making Pisgah accessible to riders of all skill levels.
Third, the scenery in Pisgah National Forest is breathtaking. The trails wind through some of the most beautiful landscapes in the country, with stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The forest is also home to an abundance of wildlife, including deer, wild turkeys, and black bears.
Finally, Pisgah National Forest has a strong mountain biking community. The area is home to several mountain bike shops, bike parks, and events, making it a hub for mountain biking culture. The community is welcoming and supportive, with riders of all levels coming together to explore the trails and share their love of the sport.
Overall, mountain biking in Pisgah National Forest is popular because of its variety of trails, challenging terrain, stunning scenery, and strong community. It’s no wonder why Pisgah is considered one of the best places to ride a mountain bike in the country.
