1.
Pounding Mill Overlook β View of Hominy Valley loop from Graveyard Fields Overlook
75.9km
05:28
1,800m
1,800m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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The best gravel rides in Haywood County
By Fede from komoot
Β·
Updated May 31, 2026
If you've ever tried planning gravel biking in Haywood County, you know how quickly the options can become overwhelming. With so many roads and trails crisscrossing this corner of Western North Carolina, it's tough to tell which routes are genuinely worth your time and effort. That's where we come in. Our komoot community has ridden, mapped, and reviewed countless routes here, and we've distilled all that experience into a curated shortlist, saving you the guesswork.
Gravel biking in Haywood County is defined by its stunning mountainous terrain, expansive national forests like Pisgah, and a network of unpaved roads that climb to impressive heights. Expect significant elevation changes and diverse landscapes, from misty ridgelines to clear-running streams. The region boasts the highest average elevation east of the Rockies, so be prepared for some serious climbing, but also for the incredible views that come with it.
If you're looking for a challenging day out with big rewards, we'd start with the Pounding Mill Overlook β Mills River Valley Overlook loop from View John Rock Overlook. This difficult 48.4 miles (77.8 km) route takes you through mountainous forest landscapes with over 6,000 feet (1,800 m) of climbing. For something a bit more approachable, especially if you're just getting started, the Gauging Station Trail β Pink Beds Loop Trail loop from South Fork Mills River is an easy 8.4 miles (13.5 km) ride through diverse terrain. Over 60 gravel bikers have already used komoot to explore Haywood County's varied terrain, so dive in and find your next adventure.
If you only do 3 of these routes
Compare these routes at a glance
Trail | Distance | Elevation | Difficulty |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pounding Mill Overlook β View of Hominy Valley loop from Graveyard Fields Overlook | 75.9Β km | 1,800Β m | Hard |
| Gauging Station Trail β Pink Beds Loop Trail loop from South Fork Mills River | 13.5Β km | 140Β m | Easy |
| Whaleback Falls loop from Davidson River | 68.6Β km | 1,580Β m | Hard |
2.
Gauging Station Trail β Pink Beds Loop Trail loop from South Fork Mills River
13.5km
00:58
140m
140m
The Gauging Station Trail β Pink Beds Loop Trail loop from South Fork Mills River offers a gentle gravel biking experience through a historically significant part of Pisgah National Forest. You'll pedal through dense forests, past clear brooks, and alongside wildlife meadows, with glimpses of the South Fork Mills River. While the famed "pink beds" of rhododendron and mountain laurel are more historical than descriptive today, the natural beauty of the area still shines through, especially on the northern half of the Pink Beds Loop which follows an old road.
This easy 8.4-mile (13.5 km) route, with a modest 448 feet (136 metres) of elevation gain, can be completed in about 57 minutes, making it a quick and accessible option. However, be mindful of seasonal bike closures on the northern Pink Beds Loop from April 16 through October 14. The Gauging Station Trail section has been reported to be in rougher condition, so expect some varied terrain. Parking is available at the trailhead, but always check for current conditions before you go.
This area is notable as "The Cradle of Forestry in America," being one of the first managed with modern forestry techniques. Beyond the gravel biking, the South Fork Mills River area provides access to backcountry fishing and diverse ecosystems, including mountain bogs and beaver dams. It's a great way to experience the natural and historical richness of Pisgah National Forest without a strenuous effort.
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3.
Whaleback Falls loop from Davidson River
68.6km
05:11
1,580m
1,580m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
View route
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Tips from the Community
mtm05005
June 19, 2025, Whaleback Falls
Whaleback Falls is in Pisgah National Forest and is a beautiful waterfall and swimming hole into a tranquil bend of the Davidson River. It is a great place to take a quick dip to cool off during a long ride.
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Matthew
September 17, 2023, View of Looking Glass Rock
You can find the Looking Glass Rock Overlook at Milepost 417 on the Blue Ridge Parkway. If your only goal is to see Looking Glass Rock, you'll get the chance to see the outcrop from a bunch of different overlooks on this section of the parkway. This is one of the biggest and most popular overlooks for viewing the spectacle since it has a lot of parking, informational signs, and hiking trail access.
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Matthew
September 17, 2023, Cherry Cove Viewpoint
Like a lot of the other nearby overlooks, the Cherry Cove View overlook offers another perspective of Looking Glass Rock. It's located at Milepost 415.7 on the Blue Ridge Parkway and sits about 1,000 feet above the cove it is named after.
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Matthew
September 17, 2023, Pounding Mill Overlook
The Pounding Mill Overlook is one of the most popular and most photographed overlooks on the Blue Ridge Parkway. It's situated at Milepost 413.2 and looks out over Looking Glass Rock, Frying Pan Fire Tower, and a lot of Pisgah National Forest. There is ample parking and is a good spot to read about the history of this section of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
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Matthew
September 17, 2023, Cradle of Forestry Overlook
The Cradle of Forestry Overlook is located at Milepost 411 on the Blue Ridge Parkway and looks out over Pisgah National Forest. The main spectacle you can see is the obvious Looking Glass Rock. There are some historical informational signs next to the parking area with more information about what you can see from the viewpoint.
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Matthew
September 17, 2023, View of Pink Beds
Pink Beds Overlook is situated at Milepost 410.3 on the Blue Ridge Parkway. This is a popular pull-off due to the expansive view and the ability to see the mountain laurel and Catawba rhododendron that create the "pink beds" of flowers.
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Matthew
September 17, 2023, Funnel Top View
You can find Funnel Top View at Milepost 409.3 on the Blue Ridge Parkway. The view is an official overlook, and at 4,925 feet, this is a great spot to see multiple rows of mountain spines.
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Matthew
September 17, 2023, Mills River Valley Overlook
At Milepost 404.5 on the Blue Ridge Parkway, the Mills River Valley Overlook is the first of many close by scenic overlooks when heading north. There are actually viewing areas of the valley on both sides of the parkway, and there is hiking trail access at this pull-off, making it a really popular stop for a lot of parkway visitors.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many gravel bike trails are available in Haywood County?
Haywood County offers a selection of gravel biking routes that traverse its diverse mountain landscape. Currently, there are 4 curated routes available in this guide, ranging from easy to difficult, providing options for various skill levels.
Are there any easy gravel bike trails suitable for beginners or families?
Yes, for those seeking a less strenuous ride, the Gauging Station Trail β Pink Beds Loop Trail loop from South Fork Mills River is an easy option. This 13 km route offers a gentle introduction to gravel biking in the area.
What is the best time of year for gravel biking in Haywood County?
The region experiences an 'emerald paradise' in spring and vibrant colors in the fall, making these seasons particularly scenic for gravel biking. Summer offers lush greenery, while winter can bring challenging conditions at higher elevations. Always check local weather and trail conditions before heading out.
Are there any gravel routes that offer scenic viewpoints or natural attractions?
Haywood County is rich in natural beauty. Many routes will offer views of the surrounding mountains. For specific viewpoints, consider areas near the Blue Ridge Parkway. The region is also known for its misty spruce-fir ridgelines and clear-running streams. While not directly on a route in this guide, nearby attractions like Graveyard Fields Overlook and Mount Pisgah Summit & Observation Area offer stunning vistas.
Can I find any circular gravel bike routes in the area?
Yes, all the routes featured in this guide are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. For example, the challenging Davidson River β Pisgah Ranger Station loop from Pressley Gap is a 52 km circular route.
Are there any gravel trails where I might see wildlife or unique natural features?
The Cataloochee Valley, accessible via unpaved roads, is renowned for its reliable elk sightings and historic farmsteads. The broader region, including Pisgah and Nantahala National Forests, is home to diverse wildlife and features like high-elevation balds and numerous waterfalls, which are common and picturesque features throughout the county.
What are some of the more challenging gravel biking options in Haywood County?
For experienced gravel bikers seeking a challenge, routes like the Pounding Mill Overlook β Mills River Valley Overlook loop from Fork River Bald offer significant climbs and distances. This particular route spans nearly 78 km with substantial elevation gain, testing your fitness and endurance.
Are there any upcoming developments for cycling in Haywood County?
Yes, the Raccoon Creek Bike Park is currently under construction in Waynesville, with an initial phase expected to be completed in Fall 2024. This park will feature a bike pump track, bike skills course, and walking/biking paths, further enhancing the area's cycling opportunities. You can find more information on the Haywood County website: haywoodcountync.gov.
What kind of terrain can I expect on gravel bike trails in Haywood County?
Expect a diverse and rugged landscape. Trails often wind through misty spruce-fir ridgelines, alongside clear-running streams, and across varying elevations. Many routes utilize unpaved forest service roads and gravel paths, offering a true mountain biking experience away from paved roads.
Are there any specific areas known for their gravel roads that are not necessarily full routes?
Beyond specific routes, areas like Cove Creek Road, Rosemount Road (known for a steady, steep climb from the Blue Ridge Parkway), and Old Cataloochee Turnpike to Waterville Road are popular for their extensive gravel sections. These areas offer opportunities to explore many smaller gravel roads.
What should I know about accessing the Great Smoky Mountains National Park via gravel roads?
Haywood County provides a less-crowded, gravel road entrance into the Cataloochee Valley section of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. This unpaved, well-maintained road offers a scenic and rewarding gravel biking experience into the park, known for its natural beauty and wildlife.
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