Local Routes-Asheville
ASHEVILLE ROUTES
We know we've got it made when it comes to riding our local area. We've listed below a few of the popular favorites. We also invite you to check out the ride descriptions that the Blue Ridge Bicycle Club offers. Or stop by the shop and ask us!
Bearwallow Mountain
Hills, farmland, several gravel sections over 50 miles of stunning terrain...what more could you ask for? Bearwallow Mountain is a mixed surface ride that is legendary. Watch the video for details or grab the live Strava link.
Level of difficulty
Moderate
Riverside Drive
Downtown areas of Asheville aren't super bike friendly (yet) as you won't find a plethora of bike lanes. However, Riverside Drive is a great option for a leisurely ride in a bike lane along the French Broad River without going too far outside of downtown Asheville. Stop for coffee or a beer in the River Arts District where you can check out the array of artist studios, breweries and art galleries. Make this ride as long or as short as you like with plenty of stops along the way.
Level of difficulty
Mild
Blue Ridge Parkway
Bicycling on the Blue Ridge Parkway is a popular activity that provides 469 miles of picturesque vistas through Virginia and North Carolina. Ranging in elevation from 600 to 6,000 feet, the section of the Parkway that wraps around Asheville is fairly flat (minus one strenuous climb of 3,000 feet up Mount Mitchell), making it a great riding destination for both experts and beginners. From Asheville, the ride to the Mt. Pisgah Overlook at milepost 408.6 is well worth the 27 miles for the sweeping views of Pisgah National Forest.
Level of difficulty
Moderate
Elk Mountain Scenic Highway
Easily one of the most challenging routes, the Elk Mountain Scenic highway is a very popular cycling route among Asheville locals. Not for the faint of heart, this 60-mile route features continuous elevation gain, but rewards riders with stunning views of the Blue Ridge Mountains before reaching the Blue Ridge Parkway. Riders can choose to continue the trip onto the Blue Ridge Parkway up to Mount Mitchell, the highest peak east of the Mississippi River.
Level of difficulty
High
Curtis Creek Loop
Gravel riding is another part Asheville’s allure, with roads both demanding and rewarding. If you are a strong rider who wants a serious 70-mile loop ride starting in Asheville and combining dirt and paved roads, this is the ride for you. Curtis Creek is a local favorite - see the details here.
Level of difficulty
High