Blue Ridge Parkway A designated bike route, the Blue Ridge Parkway provides challenging climbs, thrilling downhill plunges, gentle rides at various points, and breath-taking scenery. The speed limit for motorists is 45 mph and most should be aware that bicycles often share the road.
Mountains to Sea Trail There are two segments of the 700-mile Mountains to Sea cycling route in McDowell County:
The Craggy Pinnacle segment follows the Blue Ridge Parkway from Asheville past Buck Creek Gap at NC 80 to Little Switzerland. Features include a 30-mile climb, gaining 3,000 feet in altitude, a 14-mile downhill ride, and an additional 4-mile climb.
The Brown Mountain Lights segment continues on the Blue Ridge Parkway to Linville Falls at the northern tip of McDowell County and on to the foothills via NC 181. The route includes several gentle descents, easy climbs, and a quick 15-mile downhill ride.
Lake Tahoma Road Sometimes called Buck Creek Road, Lake Tahoma Road (NC 80) was included in the Tour DuPont in 1994 and again in 1995. The highway was recently designated as a bike route, but cyclists should still be cautious. Lake Tahoma Road is a tough, steep climb heading north to the Parkway, but return trip is a rapid descent down toward Marion.
Lake James Road Lake James Road (NC 126) is a designated bike route circling scenic Lake James. Portions are infrequently traveled by motorists. Lake James offers 150 miles of perimeter road and takes the rider through wooded areas with occasional views of the lake. | Old US 70 Gated to prevent access by motor vehicles, this unused stretch of highway passes through national forest lands and offers excellent views and quiet rides. Park in Old Fort and cycle west on US 70, then turn right onto Old US 70. Follow along Mill Creek until reaching a dead-end sign. Continue past the gate. For the next 3.75 miles, enjoy panoramic views from places like Point Lookout. For mountain bikers, turn right onto Old #10, a state maintained gravel road which makes an excellent return route to Old Fort.
Tour DuPont Route In 1994, competitors entered McDowell County on NC 226 from the Blue Ridge Parkway and continued onto NC 226A to Little Switzerland and south on the Blue Ridge Parkway. Riders descended NC 80 to US 70 and traveled west to the town of Old Fort, then south on Bat Cave Road. In 1995, the route was reversed. Portions of this route are heavily traveled by motorists.
Cyclists unfamiliar with local routes should drive these roads by vehicle to identify potential hazards and areas of interest or concern. Always wear a helmet and obey traffic laws. For mountain biking information, contact the US Forest Service at 828-652-2144 |
