Discover the 25 best parks for serious cyclists in the Triangle
Unveil the best road biking and gravel riding routes in the Triangle with our comprehensive guide. From challenging ascents to scenic countryside loops, discover the cycling gems that await in North Carolina's Triangle region.
Posted — UpdatedEmbark on a journey through the scenic landscapes of the Triangle, where biking enthusiasts find their haven. From challenging ascents to thrilling descents, the Triangle region offers an array of on- and off-road biking routes that cater to cyclists of all levels. Let's dive into the top picks that promise not only breathtaking views but also an adrenaline-pumping cycling experience.
Road rides:
The Scenic Country Loop, nestled in the heart of Wake County, unfolds as a 28-mile tapestry of picturesque countryside. With an elevation gain of approximately 1105 ft, this route caters to riders seeking both scenic beauty and a moderate challenge. Explore the undulating terrains of Wake County while relishing the freedom of the open road.
This trail is right next to Jordan Lake, and part of the loop actually passes over the lake. You can start your ride at the American Tobacco Trail - New Hill Parking Area at 1309 New Hill Olive Chapel Road in Apex.
Raleigh unveils its hidden gem, the Brickhouse Route. This 10.8-mile journey, with a modest elevation gain of +/- 743 ft, provides a delightful mix of urban and suburban landscapes. As you pedal through the streets of Raleigh, revel in the architectural marvels and vibrant energy. The Brickhouse Route, known for its accessibility, is a must for those seeking a quick yet fulfilling road biking escapade.
You can start your ride at 3801 Hillsborough Street in Raleigh.
To start your ride, go to the American Tobacco Trail parking lot at 1017 Wimberly Road in Apex.
Leesville invites cyclists to experience the Rolling View route, stretching over 22.8 miles with an elevation gain of +/- 947 ft. This road biking gem, as per local insights, combines a serene ride with pockets of challenging inclines. Uncover the beauty of Leesville's landscapes as you pedal through this carefully crafted route.
Start your ride at Soapstone United Methodist Church at 12837 Norwood Road in Raleigh.
To start your ride, go to 2575 New Hope Church Road in Cary.
Wake County presents the Friendship Flats route, a 32.4-mile cycling adventure with an elevation gain of +/- 1252 ft. Recognized for its flat stretches and panoramic views, this route is ideal for those seeking a balance between challenge and the joy of cruising along open roads.
To ride this trail, park in the furthest right front parking lot of Friendship High School at 7801 Humie Olive Road in Apex. You can take the nice flat route out towards Gum Springs.
Raleigh unveils another gem with the Neuse River Ride, a 46.4-mile expedition with an elevation gain of +/- 1578 ft. This route offers a longer and more challenging journey, perfect for seasoned cyclists seeking an extended adventure along the Neuse River.
Start your ride at 1000 Brookside Drive, Suite 119, in Raleigh.
Wake Forest introduces the New-Light Trails, covering 35 miles of cycling bliss. As part of the Old Weaver Trail, this route offers a mix of natural and urban scenery. With its diverse terrain, this trail caters to riders seeking a varied and engaging road biking experience. Only open on Sunday during hunting season (1 sept-May 14).
You can drive down this road for a few hundred feet and park or you can park on the side of road.
9. William B. Umstead State Park
Cary's William B. Umstead State Park unveils a 24.4-mile route with an elevation gain of +/- 1440 ft. This road biking haven, nestled amidst nature, provides a refreshing escape for cyclists looking to immerse themselves in a combination of challenging trails and serene landscapes.
The Cary entrance is located at 2100 N. Harrison Avenue. The Raleigh entrance is located at 8801 Glenwood Avenue.
10. North Country
Venturing slightly beyond the Triangle, the North Country route in Franklin County, VA, beckons cyclists with a 54.2-mile journey and a substantial elevation gain of +/- 4313 ft. Recognized as a challenging yet rewarding experience, this route offers a taste of road biking adventures beyond the immediate Triangle region.
Start your ride at the Whistle Stop located at 11729 Old Franklin Turnpike Union Hall in Virginia.
Mountain rides:
11. Lake Crabtree County Park
For those seeking a change of pace, Morrisville's Lake Crabtree County Park unveils an 8-mile mountain biking trail. Although not a road biking route, it stands as a testament to the region's commitment to providing diverse cycling experiences.
Start your ride at 1400 Aviation Parkway in Morrisville.
12. Harris Lake County Park
New Hill invites mountain biking enthusiasts to explore Harris Lake County Park, featuring an 18-mile trail with varying terrains. This park caters to those seeking the thrill of off-road adventures.
13. Brumley Nature Preserve
Chapel Hill's Brumley Nature Preserve offers a 15-mile mountain biking trail, providing a mix of technical features and natural beauty. This preserve caters to those yearning for the challenge of off-road cycling.
Start at 3055 New Hope Church Road in Chapel Hill.
14. San-Lee Park
Sanford's San-Lee Park invites mountain biking enthusiasts to explore its 9-mile trail, combining quick descents with rocky sections.
Night riding is not allowed here except for organized group rides.
15. Carolina North Forest
Chapel Hill's Carolina North Forest introduces an 18-mile mountain biking trail, featuring a mix of singletrack and wider paths. This forest caters to those seeking the challenge of off-road cycling.
Start your ride at 9115 Seawell School Road in Chapel Hill.
16. Briar Chapel
Chapel Hill's Briar Chapel unveils a 22-mile mountain biking trail, offering a balance of technical features and flowing descents. This trail caters to mountain biking enthusiasts looking to hone their skills.
Start at 900 Tobacco Farm Way in Chapel Hill.
17. Carolina Outdoor Education Center
Chapel Hill's Carolina Outdoor Education Center presents a compact 3-mile mountain biking trail, providing a fun and challenging experience. This center caters to those seeking a quick off-road cycling adventure.
The second parking option is at St. Thomas More Church at 940 Carmichael Street in Chapel Hill. Parking is available near the trailhead except during services –Saturday: 5 p.m. -7 p.m. Sunday: 8 a.m. - 2:30 p.m. When you enter the church property, you will find the trail entrance to the right of the vegetable garden if you face the forest. A kiosk with a map can be found a short distance past the entrance of the trail.
Gravel Rides:
18. Umstead and Crabtree Out and Back
Elevation: +/- 1732 ft
Raleigh's Umstead and Crabtree Out and Back route unfolds as a 26-mile gravel ride, featuring an elevation gain of +/- 1732 ft. This scenic journey caters to gravel biking enthusiasts seeking a mix of natural beauty and gravel road challenges.
Start at 1900 Blue Ridge Road in Raleigh.
19. Greenway Gravel Lollipop
Greenway enthusiasts in Raleigh can explore the Gravel Lollipop route, covering 29.4 miles with an elevation gain of +/- 1640 ft. This ride provides a unique gravel experience, combining the joy of cycling with the tranquility of greenway paths.
Start at 3709 Neil Street in Raleigh.
20. Mixed Surfaces Ride
Cary introduces the Mixed Surfaces Ride, a 41.1-mile gravel adventure with an elevation gain of +/- 2812 ft. This route caters to gravel biking enthusiasts seeking a challenging mix of surfaces, from gravel roads to paved paths.
Start at Trek Bicycle Cary, which is located at 1377 NW Maynard Road in Cary.
21. North Cary Park Trail Ride
Cary's North Cary Park Trail Ride spans 31.6 miles with an elevation gain of +/- 1773 ft, providing gravel enthusiasts with a scenic ride through the town. This route offers a mix of gravel paths and natural landscapes.
Start at 1100 Norwell Blvd. in Cary.
22. American Tobacco Trail North/South Route
Apex introduces the American Tobacco Trail North/South Route, covering 29.7 miles with an elevation gain of +/- 1248 ft. This gravel ride takes cyclists through the charming town of Apex and offers a unique perspective of the region.
Park at 966 Wimberly Road in Apex.
23. New Hill American Tobacco Trail Out and Back
Wake County's New Hill American Tobacco Trail Out and Back route spans 30.2 miles with an elevation gain of +/- 1234 ft. This gravel adventure takes cyclists along the scenic American Tobacco Trail, providing a delightful mix of natural beauty and gravel roads.
Start at 1309 New Hill Olive Chapel Road in Apex.
24. William B. Umstead State Park
Cary's William B. Umstead State Park offers a 24.4-mile gravel route with an elevation gain of +/- 1440 ft. This ride unfolds amidst the park's natural beauty, providing gravel enthusiasts with a serene yet challenging experience.
The Cary entrance is located at 2100 N. Harrison Avenue. The Raleigh entrance is located at 8801 Glenwood Avenue.
25. North Country
Venturing beyond the Triangle, the North Country gravel route in Franklin County, VA, spans 54.2 miles with a substantial elevation gain of +/- 4313 ft. This expansive ride offers gravel enthusiasts a taste of adventure beyond the immediate region.
Start your ride at the Whistle Stop located at 11729 Old Franklin Turnpike Union Hall in Virginia.
Discovering more: Expanding your road biking horizons
While the aforementioned routes stand out as the cream of the crop for road biking and gravel riding in the Triangle, the region has even more to offer. As you plan your cycling adventures, consider exploring additional routes, connecting with local cycling communities and seeking out new challenges.
Remember, the joy of cycling lies not only in conquering the trails but in the journey itself. So, saddle up, explore and experience the unparalleled beauty and thrill that the Triangle region has to offer.
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