Looking for the Best Mountain Biking Trails Near Black Mountain?
There’s certainly no shortage of mountain biking trails around the Black Mountain and Old Fort area, and narrowing it down is not an easy task. Here are some of the favorited trails in the area.
Kitsuma and Point Lookout Trail
The trail starts at the Kitsuma trailhead through a gentle forest road next to Interstate 40 then quickly goes straight up as the 14 switchbacks hammer your thighs. When the forest floor is somewhat dry, it’s possible, but challenging, to clear all of the switchbacks on the way to Kitsuma Peak. After the initial ascent, enjoy being fooled by a quick downhill before being greeted by the second, steep but short climb. Afterwards, there is a beautiful ridge ride where you are greeted by some nice views of Mt. Mitchell before you start the grueling descent.
Think endless downhill; Heartbreak is just that. Following a long ridge that begins high atop the Blue Ridge Escarpment, this trail plunges over 2000 ft. in four miles!
Expect a high-speed experience with very fast straight sections. Heartbreak’s tread is narrow, and often constricted even more by Laurel and Rhododendron encroaching into the corridor. Though it is not the most technical of trails in Pisgah, there is plenty of gnarly-ness, especially when descending at speed. Expect to encounter rocky sections with shallow drops, roots, and off-camber areas with steep slopes off the sides.
From the Old Fort Picnic area and the base of Kitsuma, access Star Gap (TR 209) by taking Mill Creek Road approximately 2.5 miles north to Graphite Road. Veer right here just past the Brookside Baptist Church, and turn right on the doubletrack (unmarked) trail approximately .2 mi. past that. This will meet railroad tracks. Cross the tracks to start the Star Gap Trail.
Just into the woods, the trail gains elevation immediately. Continue on Star Gap to get to the bottom of Heartbreak Ridge. Turn up Heartbreak Ridge Trail for the climb or continue straight and start a descent from there to Jarrett Creek Road – FS 4030.
Youngs Ridge Trail is a 3.5-mile trail that leads from the Old Fort Picnic Area up to the summit of Kitsuma Peak. The trail is quite steep, gaining about 1800 feet with most of it in the first 2 miles. The trail is open to both hiking and mountain biking so pay attention for other trail users. The trail ends near the summit of Kitsuma Peak at the intersection with Kitsuma Peak Trail
Jarrett Creek is most often used as a connector to Curtis Creek Road and way to get back to Old Fort.
This dirt road will make you feel like you are deep in the backcountry due to the light traffic along it. The road is gated year-round, so not many vehicles are on it and in places it almost feels like singletrack. If you’re looking for a nice steady climb/descent out-and-back, want to make a big loop, or want to add some extra vert on your way up to Mt. Mitchell, well, this is a good place to start.
Before and After the Ride
Be sure to stop in at Hillmans Beer or Whaley Farm Brewery in Old Fort for a great place to meet up with friends and ride out!
Near Hillmans you will also find the Old Fort Bike Shop for any repairs needed.
Need to Rent a Bike?
Epic Cycles in Black Mountain, has you covered. They rent, sell, repair and clean bikes of all kinds. Whether you need a Mountain bike, E Bike or a 1st bike for someone special they have what you need.
Looking for more information?
Check out these resources for Mountain Biking and Trails in the area:
