The best cycling routes in North Carolina

Embark on the Kitty Hawk to Corolla Bike Trail, a moderate touring cycling route spanning 22.3 miles (35.9 km) with a gentle elevation gain of 146 feet (45 metres). This journey typically takes about 2 hours and 1 minutes to complete. As you pedal, you'll experience a changing landscape, from the rich salt marshes and pristine beaches offering Atlantic Ocean views to the calmer sound-side vistas. The trail often leads through wooded sections, where you can spot maritime forests and various birdlife. Keep an eye out for views of Currituck Sound and the opportunity to pass by the Pine Island Audubon Sanctuary.

While the terrain is mostly flat, be aware that strong headwinds can make the ride feel more challenging than its moderate rating suggests. You will frequently be on multi-use paths, so be prepared to share the space with walkers and joggers and exercise caution. During peak tourist seasons, foot traffic can be heavy; consider using wide road shoulders if you prefer a less crowded experience. Plan your start time to avoid the busiest parts of the day, especially if you seek a more tranquil ride.

This route offers a unique perspective on the Outer Banks, connecting two iconic coastal towns. It provides a chance to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the region, from its diverse ecosystems to its abundant wildlife. The trail serves as an excellent way to explore the area's distinct maritime environment at a leisurely pace. Consider extending your trip to explore the historic lighthouses or wild horse sanctuaries nearby.

Embark on an easy touring cycling adventure along the Little Sugar Creek Greenway, stretching 2.5 miles (4.1 km) from Huntingtowne Farms to South Boulevard. This flat route features a minimal elevation gain of just 26 feet (8 metres), making it a comfortable ride that you can complete in about 13 minutes. As you pedal, you'll follow the scenic Little Sugar Creek, enjoying picturesque views and passing through undeveloped green spaces. Keep an eye out for the wetland observation deck, a notable landmark along the way, offering a chance to pause and observe nature. Despite being near residential areas, the greenway maintains a natural feel, often bordered by a thick canopy of trees.

Planning your visit to the Little Sugar Creek Greenway is straightforward. You can find convenient access and parking near Huntingtowne Farms Park, making it easy to start your ride. The trail is well-maintained and features mile markers, which help with navigation as you cycle. This route is ideal for daytime excursions; however, be aware that it lacks lighting, so night use is not recommended. The greenway is also ADA compliant, ensuring accessibility for a wide range of users.

This section of the Little Sugar Creek Greenway offers a refreshing escape into nature within the urban landscape. It's known for its diverse wildlife, so as you cycle, watch for turtles, herons, and various raptors, especially around Huntingtowne Farms Park. The trail's design, with its thick border of trees, helps to create a sense of natural immersion, even as you pass by some developed areas. This greenway provides a valuable recreational corridor, connecting communities with natural beauty and offering a peaceful cycling experience.

Embark on a difficult touring cycling adventure along the Cherohala Skyway, a route renowned for its sustained climbs and panoramic vistas. This challenging journey spans 54.8 miles (88.2 km) and demands a significant effort, with 5497 feet (1675 metres) of elevation gain. As you ascend, you'll feel like you're riding among the clouds, especially when you reach higher points like Haw Knob and Hemlock Knob, offering sweeping views of the Unicoi Mountains and the picturesque Tellico River below. Expect to spend around 6 hours and 35 minutes navigating this demanding terrain.

Careful planning is essential before you set out on the Cherohala Skyway. There are no facilities or provisions available directly along the route, so you must carry all necessary supplies for your ride. Be aware that winter weather conditions can make the Skyway dangerous, so plan your visit for warmer months. Always check local forecasts and road conditions before heading out to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

This isolated route winds through lush forests, providing a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the region. Keep an eye out for abundant wildlife, including deer and wild boar, that call this area home. The Skyway is a testament to engineering and nature, offering a memorable touring cycling experience for those prepared for its rigors and eager to explore the remote beauty of the national forests.

Embark on the Lake Crabtree gravel loop, a moderate touring cycling route that guides you through lush, predominantly wooded trails. You will find yourself surrounded by greenery, creating a scenic backdrop for your ride. Portions of the aptly named Lake Trail offer good views of Lake Crabtree itself, providing a refreshing visual break as you cycle. This route covers 22.2 miles (35.8 km) with 1050 feet (320 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking about 3 hours and 11 minutes to complete.

Before you plan your visit, it is crucial to check with Wake County Parks, Recreation and Open Space for the most current information regarding trail access. As of June 1, 2025, the trails at Lake Crabtree County Park have been closed to the public, so verify any changes or newly opened sections. This will help ensure you have the most up-to-date details for your touring bicycle adventure.

This route is a popular choice for cyclists seeking a good workout on varied terrain, offering a balanced ride within William B. Umstead State Park. You will encounter sections like the Cedar Ridge Trail, which adds variety to the landscape, alongside gentle climbs and descents. The combination of wooded paths and lake views makes it an approachable yet engaging ride for those looking to explore the area by touring bicycle.

Embark on an easy touring bicycle ride along the Salem Lake and Creek Greenway Loop, a route that offers a refreshing mix of natural scenery. You will cycle 16.7 miles (26.9 km), gaining a gentle 482 feet (147 metres) of elevation, making it accessible for most riders. The journey, which typically takes around 1 hours and 38 minutes, guides you through shaded greenway sections, where you can enjoy the sounds of the creek. As you approach Salem Lake, the landscape opens up, providing expansive views across the water. The trail around the lake is often shaded by hardwoods and pines, creating a pleasant atmosphere for your ride.

Planning your outing on this loop is straightforward, as you will find numerous parking access points conveniently located along both the greenway and directly at Salem Lake. This makes starting your ride flexible, no matter which section you prefer to begin with. For your comfort, restrooms are readily available at the Salem Lake Marina and near the playground. This family-friendly route is generally accessible throughout the year, with no specific warnings about permits or seasonal closures to consider.

This route stands out for its varied cycling experience, combining paved greenway sections with a natural surface loop around Salem Lake. As you pedal, you will encounter diverse scenery, from the tranquil, tree-lined Salem Creek Greenway to the expansive open water vistas of Salem Lake. Keep an eye out for local wildlife, including ducks, especially around the lake portion of the trail. The route also passes through several city parks and near historic Old Salem, blending natural beauty with glimpses of local landmarks.

Embark on the French Broad River Greenway Loop, an easy touring cycling route that spans 13.0 miles (21.0 km) through Asheville. You will experience pleasant river views as the path winds through wooded sections and connects various parks, including Hominy Creek River Park and Carrier Park. This ride involves a gentle elevation gain of 426 feet (130 metres) and typically takes around 1 hour and 16 minutes to complete, making it ideal for a relaxed outing.

Before you head out, be aware that a section of the greenway within French Broad River Park is currently closed due to storm damage, which means a continuous loop directly on the greenway is not possible. Rebuilding efforts are ongoing and expected to take some time, so always check local advisories and posted signs for the most current conditions and any potential hazards. You can find updated information on the ashevillenc.gov website to help plan your visit.

This greenway offers more than just a ride; it's a journey alongside the historic French Broad River, one of the oldest rivers in the world. As you cycle, you might also discover various art installations scattered throughout the vibrant River Arts District, adding a cultural dimension to your outdoor adventure. The route's connection to multiple parks provides ample opportunities for picnics or simply enjoying the open green spaces.

The East Coast Greenway in North Carolina offers a challenging touring cycling experience, spanning 53.4 miles (85.9 km) with a significant 1335 feet (407 metres) of elevation gain. You will cycle through a diverse landscape, from the bustling streets of cities like Durham and Raleigh to the quiet, extensive pine, oak, and hickory forests. Expect varied terrain, including dedicated greenways and sections on shared roadways. This difficult route typically takes around 5 hours and 11 minutes to complete.

When planning your ride, be aware that while the Triangle region boasts well-developed and safe greenways, other parts of the East Coast Greenway in North Carolina include shared roadways. These on-road segments can present challenges for touring cyclists due to narrow shoulders and high-speed traffic. It is crucial to plan your route carefully, especially in the coastal plain and southern areas of the state. Consider researching specific sections in advance to ensure your comfort and safety.

A significant portion of this route utilizes dedicated greenways, such as the popular American Tobacco Trail, providing a mix of paved and crushed gravel surfaces. Beyond urban centers, you will also pass through tranquil natural areas like the White Oak Creek Wetlands. This route is notable for its blend of urban connectivity and natural immersion, offering a unique perspective on North Carolina's varied landscapes.

Embark on an easy touring bicycle ride around Salem Lake, offering continuous scenic views of the 365-acre body of water. This pleasant 7.2-mile (11.5 km) loop is often shaded and lush, providing a refreshing escape. You will gain a gentle 162 feet (49 metres) in elevation, making it a comfortable journey that typically takes around 43 minutes to complete. Keep an eye out for local wildlife like herons, deer, and turtles as you cycle along the shore.

For your convenience, ample parking is available at several points around Salem Lake, including near the marina and the Linville Road parking area. You will also find restrooms and drinking water fountains strategically placed along the route. These facilities ensure a comfortable experience during your visit.

The Salem Lake Trail is a key natural feature of the area, known for its family-friendly cycling opportunities. Along the route, you will encounter educational interpretive signs that are part of the "Kids in Parks" TRACK Trail, offering insights into the local flora and fauna. The trail also connects to the Salem Creek Greenway, allowing you to extend your ride further into Winston-Salem if you wish.

Embark on a touring bicycle adventure along the Raleigh Greenway: Crabtree and Walnut Creek Loop, a moderate route that offers a diverse cycling experience. You will cover 24.1 miles (38.8 km) with an elevation gain of 531 feet (162 metres), typically taking about 2 hours and 18 minutes. Along Crabtree Creek, you will cycle past flowing water and lush greenery, noticing large rock outcroppings, while the elevated boardwalks of "The Swamp" provide serene wetland views.

Before you set off, be aware that sections of the Crabtree Creek Greenway are prone to closures due to flooding; always check local alerts for current conditions. For your safety, especially on parts of the Walnut Creek trail closer to downtown, consider riding during daylight hours and with a companion. A digital map is highly recommended to help you navigate the interconnected greenway system effectively.

This loop is a key part of the Capital Area Greenway system, blending natural beauty with urban landscapes as you tour through Raleigh. The route offers excellent bird watching opportunities, particularly in the wetlands where you might spot egrets and herons. You will also enjoy peaceful stretches along the northern edge of Lake Raleigh, providing a scenic escape within the city.