Fresh Trails, New Favorites – Exploring Beyond the Usual Rides
Sunny Carr's go to destinations
I’m always looking for ways to keep riding fresh. Sometimes that means reversing a familiar loop or riding a trail in the opposite direction—but often, it’s about heading somewhere new.
Over the winter and early spring, I explored several purpose-built trail systems within an hour of Asheville, each offering something a little different.
Saluda Confluence (Travelers Rest, SC)
About an hour south of Asheville, this is the largest of the three systems, with 15+ trails of varying difficulty. It’s easy to build a one- or two-hour ride depending on your route.
So far, Sam’s Third Try stands out as a favorite, while Bob Ross Parkway offers a more relaxed, scenic ride out to the North Saluda River. The trails are on private land, with a large parking area, porta-potty, and changing hut available. There’s currently no fee to ride, but visitors are encouraged to sign in via QR code at the trailhead (optional donation).
Little White Oak Mountain (Mill Spring, NC)
About 40 minutes from Asheville, this smaller system (currently around four miles) is thoughtfully designed and well built.
Start on Piney Flats Loop and climb The Escalator to access the rest of the trails. Laurel Loco Loop and Ripsaw Cove Loop are best ridden in that order, and both are worth repeating if you want to extend your ride. Finish with a descent on Live Wire—it’s a highlight.
Parking is near the middle school in Mill Spring, and there is no fee to ride.
Fairview Community Forest (Fairview, NC)
This newer system is just 25 minutes from Asheville and currently offers about three miles of trail, with more on the way.
Cove Forest Loop is a mellow, rolling ride through the lower forest, while Sutton’s Way adds more climbing without becoming technical. With plans to expand by eight additional miles, this is a system to watch.
There’s a small parking area (about 15 cars), a trailhead kiosk with a map, and easy-to-follow routes. There is no fee to ride.
What’s Next?
Still on the list: Bernard Mountain near Black Mountain, the newer trails at Chestnut Mountain in Canton, and Foothills Watershed in Old Fort. Plenty of reasons to keep exploring this spring.
Maybe I’ll see you out there.