Dirt Biking in North Carolina

Dirt bike track.

Dirt biking is a popular hobby in North Carolina, where there are numerous trails for bikers of all levels. Some people compete on dirt biking teams, while others prefer to bike alone.

Geography

North Carolina has dirt bike trails available throughout the state, according to ATVTrails.com. Much of the dirt biking is done to the west where the Appalachian Mountains run through the state. According to City-Data.com, the Blue Ridge Mountains, which run near the Tennessee border, are the most rugged section of the Appalachians. There are also trails in the eastern portion of the state, where the terrain is very flat and even swampy in some places.

Types

One popular area for dirt bikers in the west is the 34 mile Brown Mountain Trail Park in the Pisgah National Forest. The trails take you over rough, mountainous terrain. Another region popular with dirt bikers is Upper Tellico in the Nantahala National Forest. Featuring 40 miles of trails, Upper Tellico are very challenging and rough. In the center and eastern parts of the state, dirt bikers can practice on privately owned tracks like Mike's MX Practice Facility and Lexington Motocross. These tracks are good alternatives for people who do not have access to the ones in the mountains.

Considerations

When dirt biking in North Carolina, stick to designated trails to prevent damaging fragile ecosystems. You may also encounter hikers and horseback riders on the trails, so remain diligent while you ride.

References

• ATV Trails: Tennessee / North Carolina ATV and Dirt Bike Trails
• NCNatural: North Carolina National Forests Forest Use Tips - Off-Highway Vehicles (OHV's)
• City-Data: North Carolina Topography

Resources

• NC Dirt Rider: NC Tracks and Trails