FATMAP by Strava

Bent Creek Beginner Loop

A flat, flowy, beginner-friendly loop in Asheville's most popular trail system

Mountain Biking Easy

Distance
10 km
Ascent
218 m
Descent
218 m
Duration
0-1 hrs
Low Point
646 m
High Point
735 m
Gradient
Bent Creek Beginner Loop Map

The Bent Creek Trail System is hands-down the most popular mountain bike trail system near the burgeoning mountain metropolis of Asheville, North Carolina. Its popularity is rightly earned: the trails here are of superb quality, and the network offers a little something for everyone.

Description

You can think of the Bent Creek Trail System as being split into two different halves. The steeper half that goes up and down the mountainside are overall more difficult, and the flatter half, on the opposite side of the gravel road and near the lake, is very beginner-friendly. The route mapped here showcases the most beginner friendly trails at Bent Creek.

This route is essentially a combination of the Pine Tree Loop and the Explorer Loop. The singletrack is relatively flat and quite smooth—but it’s still flowy and fast! A few roots will remind you that you’re still riding a mountain bike trail, but you can’t really ask for a better beginner mountain bike trail than this!

The forest is thick here, with portions of this trail running through dense rhododendron that overhangs the trail, forming beautiful, green rhodo tunnels 12 months of the year.

A nearby campground at Lake Powhatan is the perfect spot to spend the night, turning your visit to Bent Creek into a true weekend getaway in the woods.

Sources: http://www.pisgahareasorba.org/2010/04/bent-creek-beginners-ride-from-hard-times-trailhead/

Difficulty

Easy

Mostly smooth and non-technical singletrack with unavoidable obstacles 2in/5cm tall or less. Avoidable obstacles may be present. Ideal for beginner riders.

Medium Exposure

2 out of 4

The trail contains some obstacles such as outcroppings and rock which could cause injury.

Remoteness

1 out of 4

Close to help in case of emergency.

Best time to visit

between February and November

Features

  • Flow
  • Roots

Similar routes nearby

Guidebooks in this area