How to Enjoy the Best Bike Trails in Western NC
Nothing compares to biking in Western North Carolina! Our mountainous region is filled with miles of trails and offers some of the best bike trails in Western NC! Whether you’re in search of a quiet mountain trail surrounded by nothing but nature, or you’d like to explore the area on a paved path, Western North Carolina has something for you. To find out everything this gorgeous mountain region has to offer, access our digital Vacation Guide. Inside, you’ll find suggestions on what to do and where to go while you’re visiting. The best part? It’s free!
Top 4 Bike Trails in Western NC
1. THERMAL BELT RAIL TRAIL
Pedal your way through Western North Carolina on the Thermal Belt Rail Trail. At 13.58 miles long, this converted railway is one of the newest paved bike trails in North Carolina. Besides offering the perfect atmosphere for training or a leisure bike ride, the 12-foot-wide corridor connects Ruth, Rutherfordton, Spindale, and Forest City. The trail’s northern section features shaded canopies ideal for long rides. The southern portion of the Thermal Belt Rail Trail is dotted with restaurants, shopping, and other entertainment perfect for a day of exploring.
2. PURPLE MARTIN GREENWAY
Lined with creeks, waterfalls, and local plant life, the Purple Martin Greenway is another great spot for biking, running, and exploring nature in Rutherford county. The trail extends just over two miles and is hailed as the county’s first natural trail system.
3. BUFFALO CREEK PARK
Mountain bikers from near and far visit Buffalo Creek Park to take its thrilling biking trails while enjoying the remarkable beauty of our mountainous region. The park’s five-mile loop is accessible year-round and has been recognized as one of the country’s best mountain biking trails.
4. DUPONT STATE RECREATIONAL FOREST
Nestled southeast of the Blue Ridge Mountains is the DuPont State Recreational Forest, which features approximately 100 miles of rugged paths. Bikers can expect a challenging ride as they pedal through dense forest and over slick rock patches. As a bonus, the area is also home to four picture-worthy waterfalls.
Get Your Rest at The Esmeralda
You will need plenty of rest, relaxation, and healthy food to keep you energized as you adventure around Western North Carolina’s exciting bike trails. Luckily, The Esmeralda has excellent amenities, comfy guest rooms, an in-house spa, and everything else you need to achieve an exciting bike tour of the area. Every day of your stay, you will be treated to a complimentary breakfast made with only the best local ingredients to ensure your body has the right fuel for your daily adventure.
After a full day of bike riding, you can return to The Esmeralda for a night of much-needed rest.
Check our availability and book your stay. We can’t wait to see what adventures biking Chimney Rock, NC, has in store for you.