Brevard NC is for Mountain Biking — Trails, Info & More
Mountain biking isn’t just a heart-pumping, adrenaline-boosting workout — it’s also the best way to get to know Brevard, NC.
The mountains of Western North Carolina — where Brevard is located — have some of the best mountain biking in the world. Gravel roads winding along streams, steep trails that climb mountains and cross peaks, and plenty of prime singletrack — whatever you're looking for, you'll find it here
Brevard (in Transylvania County) is home to two national forests that offer great rides for mountain bikers looking for some adventure on the trails. The Pisgah National Forest, located just south of Asheville between Brevard and Marshall, offers a variety of singletrack trails with varying degrees of difficulty. The DuPont State Recreation Area, located between Brevard and Chimney Rock, also has its share of challenging trails featuring plenty of choice singletrack. If you’re ready to ride near Brevard, we’ve got some thumbs-up suggestions for you.
The Best Beginner Mountain Biking in Brevard, NC
DuPont: Ridgeline
As far as beginner-friendly mountain biking routes near Brevard go, DuPont’s Ridgeline Trail is a 6-mile out-and-back that’s fast and flowing, and that everyone will enjoy. In fact, most bikers who’ve stayed near Brevard consider this trail to be one of their top three, no matter their level! This beginner-friendly trail has been redesigned and is now smooth and well-bermed; there aren’t any technical traps to surprise you. Believe it or not, the climb is just as much fun as the descent. Before you go, make sure everyone in your group knows how to brake correctly; speed control will be crucial as the terrain dips and curves.
5-Star Intermediate MTB Trails in Brevard
Dupont: Burnt Mountain — Cedar Rock — Big Rock
The Burnt Mountain to Big Rock mountain biking route is one of our favorite Brevard rides — it’s a definite go-to for 6 miles of variety and views. You’ll enjoy a lovely little climb through the forest to prepare you for the downhill. The start of the descent is mostly fast and flowy with some rollers, while the bottom section requires more technical riding; the switch from smooth to rocky is rather abrupt. The technical, rocky parts of the descent keep us on our toes; there are a couple of trickier sections and drops that we suggest walking unless you’re an extremely skilled rider. Park at the Corn Mill Shoals trailhead and follow the trail to loop Burnt Mountain clockwise, after which you’ll traverse Little River, climb Cedar Rock, and follow the Big Rock downhill.
Pisgah: Thrift Cove — Lower Black — Lower and Upper Sycamore
Pisgah’s Thrift Cove to Lower Black Mountain to Sycamore Cove loop totals about seven miles of prime mountain biking terrain. This loop is intermediate in difficulty and provides riders with an excellent introduction to mountain biking in Pisgah National Forest. It’s also close to the bike shops located at the Forest entrance. The trails have a nice selection of root gardens and rocks, but nothing too technical — you can even ride your hardtail. This loop is popular with locals at the end of the workday, so you’ll have plenty of space to yourself if you venture out midday during the week.
Pisgah: Mullinax — Squirrel Gap (from the Turkey Pen Trailhead)
This is an intermediate 13-mile mountain biking loop over varying Brevard terrain, from very skinny singletrack to wider, machine-graded terrain. Referred to as “a new-school flow trail loaded with berms and jumps,” this trail is full of hand-built singletrack — some of the best we’ve found! The trail is fun, fast, technical, and narrow — it mostly clings to the side of the mountain.
The most common way to ride this loop is to climb Mullinax to Squirrel Gap, which leads to the top of Cantrell. From the Turkey Pen parking lot (halfway between Brevard and Mills River), ride down to the start of the South Mills River trail, cross the swinging bridge. Climb up to the intersection with Squirrel Gap and continue to the top of Cantrell. At the top, you’ll have earned the fast and flowing descent that’s become one of the most classic rides in Pisgah.
Expert Mountain Biking Trails in Brevard
Pisgah: Cove Creek to Daniel Ridge
Pisgah’s Cove Creek to Daniel Ridge mountain biking route is about 10 miles long and you’ll generally be riding for more than 2.5 hours. It's best for more advanced, experienced mountain bikers. The ride includes an easy climb with some stream crossings along the Cove Creek Trail, followed by a traverse across to Daniel Ridge. Park at the Fish Hatchery parking lot.
Pisgah: Bennett Gap
Pisgah’s Bennett Gap downhill is regarded as some of the area’s best mountain biking. This steep, advanced Brevard-area track is a classic, but be careful not to skid! We promise the climb will be worth it. Warm up on the forest road before moving on to a classic singletrack near the top. Stop for great views before descending to Club Gap and Bennett Gap across some steep, undulating hills.
Pisgah: Farlow Gap
The first advanced ride near Brevard to try is Farlow Gap; it’s also one of the toughest. While riding, plan to enjoy plenty of scenery and lush vegetation while navigating trickier sections of rocks, roots, and narrow ridges. Watch out for stream crossings, where water may be high from recent rains. The uphill portion will give you 5 miles of tough climbing up gravel and doubletrack. The rocky, steep technical downhill will challenge your skill and your stamina, so don’t start this ride without confidence (or experience). If you’re not already a solid, advanced rider, this mountain biking trail isn’t for you!
Mountain Bike Guides in Brevard, NC
Ready to ride some of the best mountain biking trails near Brevards, but not as eager to set off on your own? Instead of trying to figure out which of the above trails (or others) you’ll most enjoy, you can contact our team at The Bike Farm for expert advice, guided mountain biking experiences, or skill lessons to improve your confidence. Read our FAQ about guided rides.