The Ultimate Biking Guide to Travelers Rest, SC
🚴♂️ Ride. Refuel. Rest.
Your Ultimate Cycling Getaway Begins in Travelers Rest, SC
The TRail Begins with TR
If you’re dreaming of the perfect cycling trip to the Upstate of South Carolina, look no further than Travelers Rest. Known as TR, this welcoming town at the foot of the Blue Ridge Mountains offers year-round riding for road cyclists, mountain bikers, and casual cruisers alike. With direct access to top trails, group rides, and the legendary Gran Fondo Hincapie on October 18, 2025—Travelers Rest is more than a stop, it’s your trailhead.
🏞 Why Travelers Rest Is the Perfect Basecamp for Cyclists
Whether you're biking the Swamp Rabbit Trail, chasing hill climbs, or bombing down singletrack, Travelers Rest is your launchpad. The whole town is bike-friendly, gear-savvy, and full of local charm—with great places to stay, eat, and grab a post-ride brew.
TR isn’t just a name—it’s the start of your trail.
🚴 Featured Cycling Event: Gran Fondo Hincapie – October 18, 2025
This iconic event draws cyclists from around the country to ride scenic backroads and challenging climbs. Starting and ending at Hotel Domestique in Travelers Rest, the Gran Fondo Hincapie features multiple route options (15–80+ miles), world-class support, and an epic after-party.
TR - Where the Trail Begins
Uniquely positioned in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Travelers Rest is the perfect basecamp for your cycling getaway!
🚵 Ride Options for Every Type of Cyclist
1. Swamp Rabbit Trail (22 miles round-trip)
A flat, scenic, paved trail perfect for casual riders, families, and beginners. Ride from TR to downtown Greenville with fun stops along the way like Furman University, Swamp Rabbit Cafe and Grocery, The Commons Food Hall in Unity Park and Falls Park.
2. Road Cycling Loops (35–80+ miles)
Explore quiet country roads and rolling climbs through the foothills and Cherokee Foothills Scenic Byway. Great for Gran Fondo training or scenic exploration. Expect 1500 - 3500 ft elevation gain on 20-30 mile rides. Here are some routes from Free Hub Bicycles and Komoot app.
3. Mountain Biking: Gateway Park, Paris Mountain, & Pleasant Ridge
Gateway Park: Pump tracks and flow trails in downtown TR
Paris Mountain: Rugged singletrack and technical climbs—just minutes away
Pleasant Ridge: Home of the JFA Trail, an advanced 6-mile loop with rock gardens and creek crossings
4. Fall Leaf Rides
Ride scenic 35–50 mile loops through colorful hardwood forests with cue sheets provided by the Greenville Spinners’ Virtual Leaf Tour.
In Town Skills Park
Warm up, sharpen your skills, take a couple loops around at Gateway Park in the heart of downtown Travelers Rest.
🗓 Yes, You Can Ride Year-Round in TR
Thanks to a mild climate and well-maintained roads and trails, Travelers Rest is a four-season destination for cyclists. Spring and fall bring cooler temps and beautiful views, while winter offers rideable days without snow. Rain or shine, you can ride here 12 months a year.
🛌 Bike-Friendly Places to Stay in Travelers Rest
The Station by Compo Hotels Boutique Cabins Modern, stylish cabins right on the Swamp Rabbit Trail Hampton Inn Travelers Rest Hotel Free breakfast, bike storage, easy trail access Field Trip Glamping Geodomes, A-frames, sauna, and mountain views Haus Holiday Vacation Rental Great for small groups with full kitchen Hotel Domestique Boutique Hotel Owned by George Hincapie; includes guided rides & fine dining and luxe rooms.
Pre Ride Coffee
Bridge City Coffee – local cafe in the heart of TR
Leopard Forest Coffee – Local roasted beans and chill patio vibes
TReehouse Cafe – Local hangout with good eats and rotating brews
Tandem Creperie – Sweet and savory crepes, great coffee drinks
Refuel and Relax
With so many food and drink options right out your front door. The whole town is the trail head!
🍺 Best Post-Ride Beer Spots
Swamp Rabbit Brewery – Craft beer brewed in the heart of TR
The Community Tap TR – Local beer, wine, and chill patio vibes
Chicora Alley – Local hangout with good eats and rotating taps
TR Tasting Room - Craft beer and fantastic wine selections
🚴♀️ Bike Rentals, Repairs & Group Rides
Freehub Bicycles
Your one-stop shop for:
Road, gravel, MTB, and e-bike rentals
Bike repairs and gear
Weekly group rides
Local route advice and GPX files
Sunrift Adventures
Road, gravel, MTB, and e-bike rentals
Bike repairs and gear
📍 Located right in downtown Travelers Rest near the Swamp Rabbit Trail
📚 Ride Smart: Cycling Greenville by Wendy Lynam
For a curated list of road, gravel, and trail routes—including elevation profiles and insider tips—grab a copy of Cycling Greenville by Wendy Lynam on Amazon. A must-have for serious riders visiting the area.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I ride in Travelers Rest year-round?
Yes! With a mild Upstate climate, TR is rideable all 12 months of the year—especially beautiful in spring and fall.
Where can I rent a bike in Travelers Rest?
Freehub Bicycles and Sunrift Adventures both offer high-quality rentals and gear.
Is the Swamp Rabbit Trail suitable for beginners?
Absolutely. It's flat, paved, and full of fun stops for food, coffee, and photos.
Are there guided rides?
Yes. Hotel Domestique offers guided road rides. Freehub Bicycles also hosts weekly group rides.
When is peak fall foliage in TR?
Usually late October through early November. Plan your leaf ride using the Greenville Spinners cue sheets.
Ready to Ride?
From casual trail cruising to expert climbs, technical descents, and vibrant local flavor, Travelers Rest is your all-season cycling destination. Whether you’re coming for the Gran Fondo Hincapie, a fall leaf ride, or a weekend escape, TR welcomes you with open roads, flowing trails, and unbeatable hospitality.
👉 Plan your ride + stay now with our Cycling TR Trip Planner
Because the TRail begins with TR.
