
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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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…

Curtis Creek Campground
Curtis Creek Campground is open May-October for tent or RV camping in the beautiful Pisgah National Forest! The grounds include hiking trails and a waterfall.

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.

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…

Bad Fork
2940 Ft. /8 Miles. Primitive trail connects Woods Mountain & Armstrong Creek Trails. NC 226-A to Armstrong Fish Hatchery Rd.…

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…

Betsy Ridge
3160 Ft./9 Mile Trail. Black Mountains view, meets Little Buck Creek Trail ending at Woods Mountain Trail. US 221 North,…

Mountain Top Shuttles
You gotta get up to get down! Let Mountain Top Shuttle Service help you make the most of your day…

Copper Ridge Trail
A new section of the Fonta Flora State Trail is open, Copper Ridge Trail, located outside downtown Old Fort, NC.…

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!

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!

Woodlawn Fitness Trail
Fitness Trail consists of 7 stations, two exercises per station on a 1/4 mile jogging path. Additional one mile loop…

Traction Supply Company
Owned and operated in the heart of the Western North Carolina mountains, Traction Supply Company is devoted to providing you…

Kitsuma Peak
Breath taking views along Kitsuma Trail and Young's Ridge. This one is not for the faint of heart! Ten mile,…

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…

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.…