Bicycling

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National forest bike trails

We have more than 300 miles of bike trails. Forest roads are also open for biking, unless otherwise signed.

Electric Bicycles

Also known as "e-bikes," electric bicycles have motors and are considered motor vehicles under the U.S. Forest Service Travel Management Rule. E-bikes can include pedal assist and throttle twist varieties and are only allowed on roads and trails designated for motorized use. These roads and trails (including off-highway vehicle trails) are identified on Motor Vehicle Use Maps available at Ranger District offices and online at https://www.fs.usda.gov/main/nfsnc/maps-pubs. Click here for more on how e-bikes are managed on national forests.

The Forest Service is committed to providing equal opportunities for all members of the public and cannot provide individuals with a disability an opportunity that is not equal to that afforded others. Where motorized vehicle use is prohibited, the prohibition must apply to all persons. Allowing exemptions to designations for persons with disabilities or other special groups is not consistent with resource protection and other management objectives of designation decisions and would therefore fundamentally alter its nature. Restrictions on motor vehicle use that are applied consistently to everyone are not discriminatory.

Wheelchair or Mobility Device Definition: A device, including one that is battery powered, that is designed solely for use by a mobility-impaired person for locomotion; that is suitable for use in an indoor pedestrian area; and that may be used by a person whose disability requires its use anywhere that foot travel is permitted (Title V, sec. 507c, of the Americans With Disabilities Act and 36 CFR 212.1).

Near Hiwassee Lake: At Hanging Dog Recreation Area on Tusquitee Ranger District are 7.2 miles of intersecting loops starting near the boat launch.

Near Hayesville: On the edge of Lake Chatuge, Jackrabbit Mountain Bike Trails feature 14 miles of challenging trail only a half mile from Jackrabbit Mountain Campground and day-use area.

Near Hot Springs: There are three trails: 3.6-mile Mill Ridge Trail’s (area is unavailable) four miles of old roadbed.

Near Bryson City: Tsali Recreation Area’s challenging single-track trails overlook Fontana Lake and the Great Smoky Mountains. Each day, half of the 42 designated trail miles are open to bikes, and the other half are open to horses. Users pay a daily fee at trailhead. An annual pass is available at Cheoah District and two vendors. Visit the passes and permits page for more information.

Near Brevard and Asheville: Trails systems offer many opportunities. 

Uwharrie National Forest: In the Piedmont area, Wood Run’s 22 miles of trails over rolling hills meander through pine and hardwood forests .