Alexander Mountain Bike Park

Alexander Mountain Bike Park: Potential Meets Challenge

Overview

Positioned a stone's throw away from Asheville, North Carolina, Alexander Mountain Bike Park provides riders with a moderately challenging singletrack experience. It features picturesque views of the French Broad River, and while not extensively technical, offers a blend of captivating climbs and flowing sections.

Key Features

• Distance: 7 mi
• Level: Intermediate
• Route type: Loop
• Location: Asheville, North Carolina

Trail Description

The Alexander Mountain Bike Park offers riders a unique experience with its mixed reviews. Here's a breakdown:

• Terrain and Technicality: While not overly technical, the park does present some sections that might challenge riders, such as a boulder capable of launching riders off the mountainside. Climbs are notable and might prove tough for some, yet they deliver a rewarding experience.
• Overgrowth: A common concern among riders is the overgrown nature of the trails. This often results in reduced visibility, especially during summer, leading to encounters with spiderwebs. A good number of riders suggest visiting during winter for an optimum experience.
• Trail Navigation: Some riders have reported getting lost due to inadequate signage. Particularly, the red loop can be confusing. Proper direction markers and a comprehensive map might help in enhancing the navigation experience.

Rider Experiences

Feedback from the rider community brings diverse perspectives:

• "The trail offers potential but suffers from lack of maintenance. If more riders contributed to its upkeep, it could rank among the best."
• "Despite its challenges, the park provides a solid workout. The key is understanding the loops and directions. Riding the red loop counter-clockwise, as indicated by the upfront map, proves enjoyable."
• "It's a decent spot for polishing handling skills, especially around slow uphill obstacles."
• "While the right loop can feel disjointed, the left loop offers a smoother experience. The overlook spot on the left loop offers a calming view of the French Broad River."
• "There are moments, like the rock face section, that might catch riders off guard. Awareness and caution are advised."

Getting There

To access Alexander Mountain Bike Park, from Asheville, one needs to follow SR 251 (Riverside Drive). After crossing a small bridge, parking is available just 0.5 miles ahead.

In Conclusion

While Alexander Mountain Bike Park has its flaws, like overgrowth and lack of maintenance, it does present potential. Its beautiful view of the French Broad River, mixed with challenging climbs and technical sections, can offer riders a memorable experience. Proper care, maintenance, and a little community support could elevate this park to its rightful place among Asheville's biking destinations. It's worth noting that the park officially closed in January 2020 due to landfill expansion, which means potential visits should be pre-planned and researched.