Mountain Biking, Taprooms, and Community
Discover Brevard’s Authentic Outdoor Culture
Last Updated February 23, 2026
Transylvania County is known across the country as the mountain biking capital of the East. Over 350 miles of singletrack curve through these Blue Ridge hills, and people from around the world travel to get a taste of this sought-after destination. In and around Brevard, NC, mountain biking isn’t just a pastime—it’s woven into the community’s culture.
On any given weekend when the weather is nice, cars and SUVs with bike racks strapped to the trunk line the roads of Pisgah National Forest and DuPont State Recreational Forest. With routes suitable for all skill levels, the area is equally attractive both to biking newbies and seasoned racing professionals like Brice Shirbach.
“Brevard is uniquely positioned for East Coast mountain biking. The scale of the descents, the combination of high-quality and abundant trails, the infrastructure supporting cycling of all types, and the year-round riding make it hard to beat,” says Shirbach. “I first came here in 2014 for a Pinkbike story featuring World Cup athletes Luca Shaw and Neko Mulally. Even back then, the area immediately stood out, and I’ve kept returning ever since.”
Over the years, many other mountain bikers (and more recently, gravel bikers) have caught wind of the excellent riding in the area. Several respected publications, including Singletracks, have given their two cents on some of the best rides in and around Brevard.
It’s not just the trails and terrain that make Transylvania County stand out to mountain bikers; it’s also the unmistakably authentic outdoors community.
Two-wheeled adventure is woven into the culture of Brevard and its surrounding communities, including Cedar Mountain, Rosman, and Pisgah Forest. The connection is tangible, literally. Bikers can ride from the heart of Downtown Brevard through the Bracken Mountain Preserve to the challenging trails of Pisgah.
If you’d like a local expert to give you ride recommendations there are several bike shops in the area ready to help, and many double as taprooms. A few to check out are:
- The Hub: All around outdoor store w/ taproom right outside Pisgah National Forest
- Weevil Beer & Gear: Bike shop that makes custom MTB kits, stop in for gear & apparel
- Earth Mountain Cycle: Downtown spot for MTB & gravel riders, rent an e-bike to ride on the Ecusta Trail
- Squatch Bikes & Brews: Lumberyard district spot with bike rentals and sales for all types of riders
If the trails and taps weren’t enough, Brevard also celebrates its mountain biking culture with community rides and the annual WNC Bike Fest. Hosted by Pisgah Area SORBA, the free event is a chance for mountain biking enthusiasts to get together, connect, and give back to the trails that make Brevard the incredible biking destination that it is.
Speaking of Pisgah Area SORBA, many of the trails in Transylvania County wouldn’t be as accessible and maintained as they are without the organization’s hard work and stewardship. It just goes to show—in Brevard, mountain biking is more than an outdoor activity. It’s a crucial thread in the fabric of community culture.
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About THE TCTDA
The Transylvania County Tourism Development Authority (TCTDA), through its Explore Brevard brand, supports a sustainable and thriving tourism economy in Transylvania County, NC. The organization contributes to the broader elements of tourism in the county through investment in the community’s natural resources and tourism infrastructure. Funding for the TCTDA is provided by a 5% occupancy tax on overnight visitors to Transylvania County accommodations. The TCTDA office is located in downtown Brevard at 175 East Main Street on the second floor. To learn more, view our Media Kit or contact our media team at [email protected].