Mountain Biking Adventures in McDowell County, NC
While visiting McDowell County, ensure you take advantage of the incredible biking opportunities available. If you enjoy riding through the woods, the Pisgah National Forest in the Old Fort area is one of the top mountain biking destinations in the country. Whether you're a beginner or a skilled rider, there's no shortage of singletrack trails and old logging roads to keep your wheels turning.
Mountain Biking in Pisgah National Forest
Pisgah National Forest offers a variety of trails suitable for all skill levels. From easy rides for beginners to challenging trails for seasoned bikers, you’ll find plenty of options to explore.
Cycling the Blue Ridge Parkway
The Blue Ridge Parkway, with its famous 469 miles of picturesque views, attracts cyclists worldwide. It challenges riders with ever-changing weather conditions and long stretches between inhabited areas. This journey is not for novices, but with practice on the trails in McDowell County, you can build the skills needed to tackle it.
Safety First
Remember to keep safety in mind while riding. Wear helmets, carry bear bells and whistles for noise, and be aware of weather changes that could affect your ride. Bike with friends or let someone know your whereabouts, and most importantly, have FUN!
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Lake James State Park - Visitor Center
"Last of the Mohicans" and "Hunt for Red October" were filmed along the shores of this picturesque lake. Two park…
Heartbreak Ridge
Avid bikers will love Heartbreak Ridge, an exciting two-mile bike trail that begins along the top ridge of the Blue Ridge Escarpment and descends 2,000 feet!
Foothills Watershed
Restaurant, Event Venue, and Bike Pump Track (Coming soon). Live Entertainment, and Recreation/Meeting Space.
Old Fort Bike Shop
OFBS is a bicycle repair and service shop located in historic Old Fort NC. OFBS is owned and operated by…
North Cove Disc Golf and Leisure Club
North Cove Disc Golf & Social Club is 157 acres of awesome rolling hills situated in a rural valley, framed…
Traction Supply Company
Owned and operated in the heart of the Western North Carolina mountains, Traction Supply Company is devoted to providing you…
Corpening Memorial YMCA
Visiting members of the Y will enjoy the indoor pool, indoor basketball & handball courts, and workout room. Located off…
Woods Mountain Trail
Woods Mountain Trail is not for the faint of heart! Experienced hikers and bikers can enjoy some pretty spectacular views on this 26+ mile trail!
Old Fort Gateway Trail System
June 26th marked the opening of Phase I of the Old Fort Gateway Trail System. Phase I is six miles…
Kitsuma Peak
Breath taking views along Kitsuma Trail and Young's Ridge. This one is not for the faint of heart! Ten mile,…
Peavine Trail
The Peavine Rail Line, once an active Norfolk Southern Railway line, is included in the company's "rails to trails" program.…
Copper Ridge Trail
A new section of the Fonta Flora State Trail is open, Copper Ridge Trail, located outside downtown Old Fort, NC.…
Greenlee Park
Greenlee Park is the perfect spot to spend the day, with accesses to Lake James for water sports, covered picnic areas, and a 1.1 mile nature trail loop!
Lake James State Park
At the base of Linville Gorge you will find a 6,812 acre lake with more than 150 miles of shoreline.…
Star Gap Trail
The Star Gap Trail is a great short trail for hikers and bikers alike! It is just under three miles long, beginning at the Old Fort picnic area.
Joseph McDowell/Catawba River Greenway
The Joseph McDowell/Catawba River Greenway is located just outside downtown Marion, NC. This paved trail follows the flow of the…