Beautiful Biking in Charlotte
Charlotte, North Carolina, offers cyclists a world of beautiful biking experiences, from scenic urban trails to challenging mountain bike paths. In this Insider Guide, let’s discover Charlotte cycling routes and explore the many bike options in and around the Queen City.
Greenways and Urban Trails in Charlotte
One of Charlotte’s hands-down cycling highlights is the Little Sugar Creek Greenway, an urban trail connecting multiple neighborhoods. As you ride, you’ll enjoy gorgeous views of the creek and surrounding green space — not exactly what you’d expect in the middle of the city! For a somewhat shorter ride, the McAlpine Creek Greenway provides nearly 12 miles of trails through marshland and forests (and another chance to get close to nature within city limits.)
Bike-Friendly Charlotte Nature Preserves and Parks
If you love nature and want to go all out, McDowell Nature Preserve offers incredible lakeside trails and scenic views, perfect for a leisurely ride on a weekend or early morning. Reedy Creek Nature Center and Preserve is another gem. Cycling is limited to paved and gravel paths here, but there are also miles of hiking trails, so this is a great spot to mix things up on your ride.
Mountain Biking Adventures Near the Queen City
Off-road enthusiasts know that Charlotte doesn’t skimp on mountain biking trails. The U.S. National Whitewater Center is a standout destination, featuring 28 trails covering over 40 miles of singletrack. It also caters to different skill levels, so this is a great place to ride, no matter whether you’re challenging yourself or mountain biking for the first time. Sherman Branch Mountain Biking Park is another popular spot, offering 12 miles of trails known for their fast, flowing singletrack that’s enjoyable for both beginners and experienced cyclists.
Road Cycling in Charlotte
Road cyclists will find many appealing routes in and around Charlotte. The Booty Loop in Myers Park is a local favorite, taking you through one of the city’s most picturesque neighborhoods — full of tall oaks, perfect lawns, and historic houses. For a more “in-the-city” experience, try cycling through neighborhoods like Elizabeth, Plaza Midwood, and NoDa. Each area has a unique character, with lots to get to know and plenty to appreciate.
Charlotte Cycling Groups and Events
You might ride on your own bike, but no one said you had to ride alone — Charlotte has a vibrant cycling community with several groups organizing regular rides. For example, Charlotte Area Cycling (CAC) offers a variety of rides including gravel, mountain bike, and road cycling options.
Trek of Charlotte hosts no-drop rides each weekend from their shops, including the South Charlotte Wednesday Night Ride and the North Charlotte Thursday Night Mountain Bike Ride at the Whitewater Center. (If you’re curious, “no-drop” means no one will be left behind in case of a mechanical issue — always comforting to know.)
Other groups include the Cornelius Cycling Club, Matthews Cycling Club, and NoDa Social Ride, each offering different rides to suit all preferences and skill levels. Charlotte also hosts several major cycling events throughout the year. Don’t miss Biketober Fest, an Uptown Charlotte scavenger hunt, or Cranksgiving, the annual Thanksgiving bike ride and food drive.
Ready to Explore the Queen City on Two Wheels?
As you dive into Charlotte’s cycling scene, you’ll discover a city that offers beautiful biking experiences for everyone. From gorgeous greenways to challenging mountain bike trails and from casual group rides to major cycling events, Charlotte offers seemingly limitless ways to enjoy the beauty of the Queen City on your bike.
So grab your bike, put on your helmet, and start exploring all that Charlotte has to offer!
