The best gravel rides in North Carolina

North Carolina offers nearly 100 gravel biking routes, catering to a wide range of abilities. You'll find 13 easy routes, 41 moderate routes, and 45 difficult routes, ensuring there's something for every gravel cyclist.

Yes, North Carolina provides options for all skill levels. For a more accessible ride, consider the Reedy Creek Multiuse Trail – Chainsaw log loop from Glen Royal Rd at Brownleigh Dr, which is a moderate 19.8 km route with gentle elevation changes. The American Tobacco Trail, mentioned in the region research, is also known for being suitable for various users.

For experienced riders seeking a challenge, North Carolina's mountainous regions offer demanding routes with significant elevation gains. The Davidson River – Pisgah Ranger Station loop from Pisgah Forest Access is a difficult 52.3 km route with over 1000 meters of ascent, providing a thrilling experience through Pisgah National Forest.

The western mountainous region, including areas around Asheville, Pisgah National Forest, and DuPont State Forest, is renowned for its breathtaking scenery. Routes here often feature mountain views, winding switchbacks, and long descents. The Hot Springs area also offers scenic gravel roads with views of waterfalls and swimming holes.

Many of North Carolina's gravel routes are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. An example is the Falls Reservoir loop from Uwharrie National Forest, a difficult 40.4 km route that circles the reservoir.

North Carolina's diverse landscape means you can encounter various natural attractions. In the western part of the state, you might find waterfalls, rivers like the French Broad, and vast forests. For example, the Bent Creek Experimental Forest is a notable area for its natural beauty and trails.

The komoot community highly rates gravel biking in North Carolina, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 85 reviews. Riders often praise the diverse terrain, from challenging mountain climbs to scenic forest service roads, and the extensive network of trails that cater to all abilities.

While specific multi-day routes aren't detailed in the guide, the extensive network of forest service roads in areas like Pisgah National Forest and DuPont State Forest, combined with available shelters such as Icewater Spring Shelter or Fontana Hilton, could allow for planning longer, multi-day adventures. You can explore these shelters further in the Huts and Cabins in North Carolina guide.

North Carolina offers good gravel biking conditions for much of the year. Spring and fall generally provide the most pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery. Summer can be warm, especially in the Piedmont and Coastal Plain, but the higher elevations of the mountains offer cooler temperatures. Winter can be cold, with potential for snow in the mountains, but many lower elevation routes remain rideable.

Yes, North Carolina has dedicated areas for cycling. For instance, you can find trails like Loop 4 at Crabtree Lake Park and the Berm Park. The Bike Parks in North Carolina guide provides more details on these and other locations.

Many of the forest service roads and trails, particularly within Pisgah National Forest and DuPont State Forest, offer a sense of solitude and are generally less trafficked than paved roads. Exploring routes in these vast protected areas is a good way to find quieter rides.

Yes, the American Tobacco Trail is a notable 22.6-mile Rails-to-Trails project that crosses multiple counties in the Piedmont region. It's an excellent option for gravel bikes, offering a relatively flat and consistent surface. You can experience a section of it on the American Tobacco Trail loop from Fayetteville Rd at Geneva Dr.