With its well-packed, flowing singletrack, Brumley Forest Trails offer an intriguing mix of natural flow, mild climbs, and small rock gardens. Located in Chapel Hill, North Carolina, this 9-mile network of trails provides an intermediate-level riding experience that has become a local favorite.
The trailhead starts from a gated, gravel parking lot off New Hope Church Rd. Simply navigate to the designated parking area and gear up for an action-packed day on the trails.
Brumley Forest Trails are an excellent example of trail design done right, considering the limited natural terrain. Cyclists praise the system for its seamless integration of the few available rocks, creating a natural flow that is both invigorating and technical.
While the trails are best suited for intermediate riders, there are sections that even beginners could enjoy. A handful of natural rock gardens present more than just a beginner obstacle but are far from being overly demanding. Gullies and ravines dot the trails, and a few can be challenging to navigate—adding a welcome layer of complexity to the ride.
From mild climbs to small jumps, the trails offer enough diversity to keep both beginners and experienced riders entertained. The trails are also well-marked, reducing the risk of getting lost or veering into difficult terrain unprepared.
Brumley Forest Trails make for an exceptionally balanced ride, with enough technical challenges to keep you on your toes and enough flow to keep the wheels spinning effortlessly. While it's not a trail system that can be easily categorized as beginner-friendly or expert-level, it offers a fulfilling ride for intermediate cyclists—and enough variation to make every visit a unique experience. Overall, Brumley is not just a trail; it's a celebration of what Chapel Hill's natural terrain has to offer to the mountain biking community.
10 mi 
