A bikeaholic’s paradise, the Emerald Outback at Beech Mountain is a 7-mile trail park, a popular mountain biking location year-round (weather permitting!). The trails criss-cross the mountain top and are comprised of double track, single track, grassy areas and dirt/gravel roads, ranging from 4,700 to 5,400 feet in elevation, which makes the Outback one of the highest mountain biking trail systems in the East Coast.
The trails difficulty level ranges from beginners to advance, with challenging terrain for experienced riders. All trails are well-marked and there’s a good variety to the trail system, alternating between lush forests and open spaces with gorgeous views. While there’s plenty of isolation in the trees, the path doesn’t stray too far from a connecting road or bailout point. Safety features consists of LID markers, well-blazed trails and a wilderness search and rescue team.
Enter the trails on Oz Forest Run (1.1 mi, Easy) through the forest of Beech trees for which the mountain is named. An overlook with a broad view to the west is located about 3/4 of a mile in. At the 1.1 mile point, two other trails are accessed. Wizard’s Way (.3 mi, Easy to Moderate) leads back down to Oz Forest Run and Southern Ridge (.93 mi, Moderate to Strenuous), which connects to Ruby Slippers (.32 mi, Moderate to Strenuous) and leads to three overlooks to the east and northeast. Bikers will love Witch’s Backbone and Witch’s Tail (.5/.3 mi, Strenuous, BIKE ONLY). Witch’s Backbone leads to the Grassy Road Loop (1 mi, Moderate), and Northview (1 mi, Easy). Also leading off Grassy Road Loop is Jackalope’s (1.34 mi, Easy), which connects back to Wizard’s Way.
Also find other town trails great for mountain biking. Beginners will love Sassafras, Wild Iris and Red Fox. For a more challenging ride, head to Grassy Gap Creek Trail.
Pick up a free Beech Mountain Trail Map at the Visitor Center or Recreation Center.
This trail is provided and managed by Beech Mountain Parks and Recreation. Beech Mountain is designated an Outdoor NC Trail Town, championing stewardship, accessible outdoors and responsible recreation to sustain our trails for future generations. Join the movement to preserve North Carolina’s Outdoor Spaces by following the Leave No Trace guidelines.
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