Below is a bit of information about the amazing variety of riding in Way Western NC.
A current list of mountain bike trails, places to stay, and things to do in western NC can be found at
https://828vibes.com/guide-to-mountain-biking-in-the-nc-smoky-mountains
A current list of mountain bike trails, places to stay, and things to do in western NC can be found at
https://828vibes.com/guide-to-mountain-biking-in-the-nc-smoky-mountains
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Tsali
Tsali is a great trail system with trails that mix up flowy fun with some technical challenges. Be sure to check the trail use schedule before you head out. Mouse & Thompson and Right & Left Loop are open to mountain bikers and horses on alternating days so please respect the schedule! There is $2 per day or $20 per year per rider use fee. View the trails on trailforks here. |
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Western Carolina University Trails
These are possibly the fastest and flowiest 9 miles of trails in the area! But don't think that means there is no climbing. These trails are challenging but result in big pay-offs on the downhill! Horses are not allowed on these trails. Bathrooms and water are available at the picnic parking area on WCU's campus. A map of the trails is available here. View the trails on trailforks here.
These are possibly the fastest and flowiest 9 miles of trails in the area! But don't think that means there is no climbing. These trails are challenging but result in big pay-offs on the downhill! Horses are not allowed on these trails. Bathrooms and water are available at the picnic parking area on WCU's campus. A map of the trails is available here. View the trails on trailforks here.
Cherokee Fire Mountain Trails
The Fire Mountain Trails are Cherokee’s newest source for big adventure—a multiuse trail system that’s made to mountain bike, hike, or run. The network of trails is more than 10.5 miles total, so there’s plenty of room for everyone to recreate safely, responsibly…and flowy? A skills park with fun and challenging features was opened on July 24, 2020!
That’s right—if you like your trails with a nice flow of features, with fun berms and quick hits of elevation that are manageable and fun, Fire Mountain is made for you. You’ll find tables, rock gardens, and blinds for those who know, along with single-track and wider sections, spots that are smooth and fast, and trails that invite the more technically accomplished with options for those less so. The trailhead is located about 100 yards from the Oconaluftee Indian Village in Cherokee and shares a parking lot. The trails interlace through the nearby Great Smoky Mountains, so you already know the views and terrain will take your breath away, even if your recreation of choice doesn’t!
View the trails on trailforks here.
The Fire Mountain Trails are Cherokee’s newest source for big adventure—a multiuse trail system that’s made to mountain bike, hike, or run. The network of trails is more than 10.5 miles total, so there’s plenty of room for everyone to recreate safely, responsibly…and flowy? A skills park with fun and challenging features was opened on July 24, 2020!
That’s right—if you like your trails with a nice flow of features, with fun berms and quick hits of elevation that are manageable and fun, Fire Mountain is made for you. You’ll find tables, rock gardens, and blinds for those who know, along with single-track and wider sections, spots that are smooth and fast, and trails that invite the more technically accomplished with options for those less so. The trailhead is located about 100 yards from the Oconaluftee Indian Village in Cherokee and shares a parking lot. The trails interlace through the nearby Great Smoky Mountains, so you already know the views and terrain will take your breath away, even if your recreation of choice doesn’t!
View the trails on trailforks here.
Fontana Village
The trails at Fontana Village are a hidden gem. These trails are very low traffic, so you are unlikely to see many other bikers if you ride here. These trails are typical of western North Carolina - rocky, steep, and fun! There is a lot of climbing but also a classic downhill trail not to be missed. A map of the trails is available here.
View the trails on trailforks here.
The trails at Fontana Village are a hidden gem. These trails are very low traffic, so you are unlikely to see many other bikers if you ride here. These trails are typical of western North Carolina - rocky, steep, and fun! There is a lot of climbing but also a classic downhill trail not to be missed. A map of the trails is available here.
View the trails on trailforks here.
Deep Creek and Indian Creek
These trails are primarily double track gravel out and backs and are a great place to bring the whole family for a scenic cruise. The trail is parallel the creek for much of your climb and you will see beautiful plants, wildlife and waterfalls. This ride starts just outside Bryson City so is very convenient. There are multiple hiking trails leaving from this area as well, so be aware of hikers and horses. There are bathrooms at the parking area. A map of the trails is available here.
These trails are primarily double track gravel out and backs and are a great place to bring the whole family for a scenic cruise. The trail is parallel the creek for much of your climb and you will see beautiful plants, wildlife and waterfalls. This ride starts just outside Bryson City so is very convenient. There are multiple hiking trails leaving from this area as well, so be aware of hikers and horses. There are bathrooms at the parking area. A map of the trails is available here.
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Panthertown Valley
Panthertown is known as the Yosemite of the East, and riding these trails allows you to experience all this area has to offer. There is a variety of trail type and something for all skill levels, as well as amazing views and waterfalls. Definitely bring a map on this adventure because not all trails are open to mountain bikers and many trails are not marked. Primitive camping sites are available. There are no bathrooms or water at the parking area. View the trails on trailforks here. |
