The Ultimate Mountain Biking Guide Near Travelers Rest, SC
Travelers Rest has quietly become one of the best mountain biking basecamps in the Southeast. With world-class trail systems, legendary climbs, and flowy singletrack all within an hour’s drive, TR is where riders stay, refuel, and repeat.
Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or planning a full riding itinerary, here’s your guide to the best mountain biking trails near Travelers Rest — plus where to eat and recover afterward.
1. Paris Mountain State Park
Paris Mountain State Park
📍 ~15 minutes from Travelers Rest
Paris Mountain is a classic Upstate ride with technical climbs, fast descents, and a strong local riding culture.
Top Trails for Bikers
Fire Tower Trail – A must-ride climb with rewarding descents
Sulphur Springs Trail – Rooty, rocky, and technical (great for experienced riders)
Brissy Ridge Trail – Flowier sections with fun rollers and views
Pipsissewa Trail – A favorite connector with varied terrain
2. DuPont State Recreational Forest
DuPont State Recreational Forest
📍 ~45 minutes from Travelers Rest
Often ranked among the top mountain biking destinations in the Southeast, DuPont delivers wide, fast, and scenic trails with waterfall views and smooth flow.
Trail Highlights
Ridgeline Trail – Iconic flow trail with berms and rhythm sections
Big Rock Trail – Fast and fun with technical options
Hickory Mountain Loop – A solid loop combining climbs and descents
3. Pisgah National Forest (Brevard Area)
Pisgah National Forest
📍 ~1 hour from Travelers Rest
Pisgah is legendary — raw, technical, and demanding. If you’re an experienced rider looking for true mountain biking, this is it.
Classic Pisgah Routes
Black Mountain Trail – A bucket-list ride for advanced bikers
Avery Creek Trail – Technical descent with roots, rocks, and water crossings
Bent Creek Gap Connector Routes – Long rides with serious elevation
Caesars Head Area Backcountry Rides
Caesars Head State Park
📍 ~50 minutes from Travelers Rest
While best known for hiking, the surrounding backcountry roads and forest trails near Caesars Head offer challenging terrain for seasoned riders seeking adventure routes and endurance rides.
Where to Eat After Your Ride in Travelers Rest
After logging miles and climbs, Travelers Rest has you covered with rider-approved refueling spots.
🍳 Topsoil
Perfect for a post-ride brunch or relaxed lunch with seasonal, farm-to-table dishes.
🍔 Chicora Alley
Casual, hearty, and ideal after a long day on the trails — burgers, wings, and cold drinks.
🥪 Upcountry Provisions
Right by the Swamp Rabbit Trail and great for quick bites, coffee, and easy grab-and-go meals.
🚴♂️ Why Stay in Travelers Rest?
Easy access to DuPont, Pisgah, Paris Mountain, and more
Walkable downtown with food, coffee, and local shops
Direct access to the Swamp Rabbit Trail for recovery rides
Bike-friendly lodging and trailhead proximity
Travelers Rest isn’t just close to great riding — it’s the ideal place to stay between trail days.
