The South’s Best Mountain Biking Destinations
Grab a bike and enjoy all the rich, vibrant colors of Southern scenery on one of the region's many mountain biking trails. Image: Visit Bentonville
Whether you’re a racer or a recreational rider, taking a spin along one of the South’s picturesque mountain biking routes is a fantastic way to take in the scenery. There’s a trail for every level on this list, and each destination offers something unique.
Monte Sano State Park | Huntsville, AL
More Info: alapark.com
It may be just a few miles from downtown Huntsville, but Monte Sano State Park feels worlds away. Bikers of all skill levels are drawn to its 22 miles of trails, not only for the varying degrees of difficulty, but also for the panoramic views.
Lake Lurleen and Munny Sokol State Parks | Tuscaloosa, AL
More Info: alapark.com + alabamarecreationtrails.org
If you think the Crimson Tide is the only thing rolling in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, you’re wrong. Plenty of mountain bikers are rolling, too. Tuscaloosa offers many excellent trails for cycling enthusiasts. Lake Lurleen State Park, home to the most extensive trail system in the area, boasts 23 miles of multi-use trails, including several that take riders around the 250-acre lake’s shoreline.
Thrill seekers enjoy tackling Antique Creek in Munny Sokol Park. This challenging basin features a drop-off that takes riders over roots before culminating in a heart-racing climb at the end.
Bentonville Bike Trails | Bentonville, AR
More Info: visitbentonville.com
Known as the mountain biking capital of the world, Bentonville, AR, is the training ground for the USA Cycling Team, who take advantage of the more than 65 miles of bike trails to build strength, speed, and endurance. Not a world-class athlete? No worries! There are plenty of beginner-friendly loops, as well as demanding switchbacks, and rugged terrains that challenge even the most advanced adrenaline junkie.
Ridgeland Mountain Bike Trails | Madison, MS
More Info: exploreridgeland.com
Every October, avid mountain bikers head to the hills of Mississippi for the annual Tri-County Mountain Bike Association’s (TCMBA) Annual Fat Tire Festival/McGee Lungbuster Race. This year’s race occurs Saturday, October 18, and Sunday, October 19, on the Ridgeland Mountain Bike Trails.
The trails feature 10 miles of single track, but you don’t have to be a racer to enjoy them. People of all levels and ages enjoy the hilly landscape with its unique rock formations, making the trails one of the state’s most popular places to bike.
Nantahala Outdoor Center | Bryson City, NC
More Info: noc.com
Nantahala Outdoor Center’s (NOC) expansive 500-acre Bryson City campus offers a wide range of options for choosing your own adventure. The best part? They provide you with bikes and gear, as well as an expert guide to help you get the most bang for your bike tour.
Two of the most popular rides are Flint Ridge, easily accessible from the campus, and Tsali, which offers a broader selection of trails. Both options take riders along some of the most picturesque routes in the state, featuring stunning mountain and Lake Fontana views.
Want to go it alone? You can bring your own mountain bike or choose from a rental and explore the Flint Ridge Trails at your own pace. Either way, it’s a journey that’s worth the ride.
Mazeppa Park Mountain Biking Trail | Mooresville, NC
More Info: visitmooresville.com
Don’t let the six-mile distance of the Mazeppa Park Mountain Biking Trail fool you. It offers plenty of twists and turns and varying terrain suitable for all levels. Beginners appreciate its short, fun flow, while more experienced riders enjoy it for hot laps or getting air on jump lines.
Virginia Creeper Trail | Abingdon, VA
More Info: visitabingdonvirginia.com
Take in all the vibrant beauty of the Appalachian Highlands on a mountain biking adventure across 16 miles of a historic rail-to-recreation Virginia Creeper Trail. Ideal for all skill levels, it features gentle slopes and an easily traversable terrain with just enough variety to keep it interesting. Although Hurricane Helene forced parts of this once 34-mile trail to remain closed, there is still plenty of fun to be had.
Crystal Springs Recreational Area | Wytheville, VA
More Info: visitwytheville.com
Visitors to Crystal Springs Recreational Area are treated to a mix of beginner and advanced trails that offer spectacularly lush views and plenty of fun for the whole family. Start with a two-mile warm-up around Crystal Springs Loop Trail before hitting the hills on the Boundary Trail.
This advanced trail features nearly nine miles of sustained climbing along the ridge line of Lick Mountain, which is approximately 3,300 feet high. Be prepared to navigate plenty of root systems and the occasional wet or muddy patches along this challenging path.
Enjoy your biking adventures!
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Bonny Osterhage
Bonny Osterhage is a professional journalist with more than 25 years of experience in both print and digital media. An avid fitness fanatic, when she isn't exploring the next trending topic, Bonny can be found cycling, running, and leading classes at SolidCore. Find more of her work at Mind Body Green, The List, Business Insider, and more.