Owls Roost Trail Review: The Intermediate Cyclist's Playground in Greensboro, North Carolina

Overview

In a city brimming with scenic trails and riding opportunities, Greensboro's Owls Roost stands out as an intermediate-level gem. This 8-mile loop offers a balanced blend of technical challenges, speedy sections, and mesmerizing lake views. Whether you're a local or just passing through, Owls Roost is a must-ride trail for anyone looking to experience the best of what North Carolina cycling has to offer.

How to Get There

From I-85, take 220 North (Battleground Ave) for approximately 10 miles. Make a right turn onto Owls Roost Road and look for the Bur-Mill Park parking lot on your left. For those looking to extend their ride, the trail is easily accessible from Country Park via Old Battleground and Lake Brandt Rd.

Trail Description

Start and Initial Downhill

Embark on your ride from the Bur-Mill Park parking lot. The first 1.5 miles sets a delightful pace, showcasing smooth and fast downhill terrain. As you reach a T-junction with a wide dirt path, turn right to continue on Owls Roost. A sign clearly marks the trail entrance on your left.

Key Features

• Technical Challenges: Expect moderate technicality, including rooty uphills and strategically placed logs.
• The Gully: A standout feature of the trail is a ten-foot gully halfway through the loop. It requires careful handling but offers an adrenaline rush.
• Lakeside Views: The trail meanders near Lake Brandt, providing stunning visuals.
• Terrain: A mix of hard-packed soil, roots, and a few short but punchy climbs.

Bonus Laps and Alternative Routes

If you're craving more, go straight past the Owls Roost sign to add a bonus lap. This detour takes you past a fishpond and back into the woods, offering another good climb and additional speedy singletrack.

Rider's Insights

• Not an overly technical trail, but enough to keep things interesting.
• Comparisons with other Greensboro trails like Wild Turkey reveal Owls Roost as slightly less technical but equally fun.
• Popular among both beginners and intermediates for its deceptive short climbs and speed-friendly flat sections.
• Often frequented by runners and hikers; so keep an eye out.

Concluding Thoughts

The Owls Roost Trail has something for everyone—from beautiful lake vistas and root-filled technical stretches to brisk singletracks. While it's not the most challenging trail in the Lake Brandt Trails system, it makes up for it with its variety and flow. Perfect for intermediate riders or advanced beginners looking for a bit of a challenge, this trail delivers an invigorating ride with the scenic backdrop of Greensboro's natural beauty. So gear up and set out to explore this little piece of North Carolina biking paradise.