Brush Creek

Brush Creek Bike Trail Review: A Rider’s Haven in Ocoee, Tennessee

For mountain biking aficionados, there's no shortage of trails. But, every once in a while, a hidden gem stands out. And for many, that gem is the Brush Creek trail near Ocoee, Tennessee. Part of the expansive Tanasi trail system, this ride offers a medley of thrill, flow, and nature.

Navigating to the Trail

Brush Creek trail is nestled close to the renowned Ocoee Whitewater Center. From the center, it's just a 2-mile ride east on Route 64. For the best views, and possibly the perfect sunset snapshot, turn right to Boyd Gap overlook.

Trail Highlights

• Technical Tidbits: Spanning a distance of 7 miles, the trail is a loop, meaning it’s as great for beginners as it is for seasoned riders. While largely a very easy trail, riders will encounter around 500 yards of technical terrain — a maze of rocks and roots where maintaining balance is crucial.
• Views Galore: Apart from the adrenaline, what makes Brush Creek special is the scenic beauty. Riders can enjoy captivating views of the river, occasional wildlife sightings, and the serene atmosphere of zooming through a dense forest.
• Additional Trails: From the trailhead, riders can journey for 6.8 miles to reach the Boyd Gap Overlook. Additionally, from the same parking lot, the Boyd Gap trail awaits, known for its high-speed, rocky descents.
• Safety Points: A word to the wise — the trail is two-way. This means while you could be enjoying a high-speed descent, another rider might be thinking the same from the opposite direction. As thrilling as blind corners can be, they're also spots where caution is necessary.

Rider Insights

• Fun and Flowy: A recurrent sentiment among riders is the “flow” of this trail. Many describe it as fast, fun, and flowy, making it one of the top choices whenever they're in the area.
• For Every Rider: From beginners to seasoned riders, Brush Creek offers something for everyone. With an elevation of 684 ft, both climbing and descending are equally exhilarating.
• Nature's Presence: Riders have reported sightings of wildlife like rattlesnakes. The trail also winds through areas dense with poison ivy, so protective gear is a good idea.
• Seasonal Considerations: During certain times of the year, the trail can be wet, leading to slippery foot bridges. Those looking to speed through should approach with caution. Also, since the area is active for hunting, wearing bright colors is recommended.

Conclusion

Whether it's the draw of the serene views, the pulse-racing descents, or the fun climbs, Brush Creek in Ocoee, Tennessee, holds a special place in the heart of many riders. If mountain biking is your passion, this trail deserves a spot on your list. And with its close proximity to other trail systems, it promises an adventurous day out in nature. So, gear up and ride on!