
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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Young's Ridge
Trailhead begins inside the Old Fort Picnic Area with incredible views of Kitsuma Peak at trail end. Elevation is 3,165…

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.…

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…

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!

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…

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.

Lower Heartbreak Ridge
Opening by spring 2024, the Lower Heartbreak Ridge Trail is part of the 42-mile trail expansion planned in the Old…

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

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.…