Cycling Routes

Cycling in Madison County

Just 20 minutes north of Asheville is Madison County and hundreds of miles of cycling routes. Our quiet mountain roads take riders to breath-taking views as well as deep into valleys and scenic farmland. Below are some of our favorite cycling routes that have low-traffic and vary in distance and difficulty.

Plan your next ride and be sure to fuel-up at one of many restaurants! All of our favorite routes start and end in convenient locations so that you don’t have to worry about parking or food.

Caution: Some of the below routes take cyclists through remote mountain roads that do not have cellular service. Please plan accordingly.

Little Ivy Loop (12 miles)

This Mars Hill cycling route is an excellent choice for cyclists who want a fairly flat and scenic ride through country roads. This low trafficked route snakes its way through farmlands, valleys and along streams.

Collegiate Loop (24 miles)

The USA Cycling Collegiate Road Cycling National Championships was held on this route and boasts challenging slopes and great views.

Meadow Fork Loop (29 Miles)

The Meadow Fork Loop is a stunning countryside road-ride through the mountains. Riders will find themselves riding along tree-covered ridges as well as deep in valleys and into rolling countryside hills.

Big Laurel Grind (38 miles)

Starting at Mars Hill University, the first 10 miles is a series of warm-up hills through the rolling country of southern Madison County.

Hot Doggett (100 miles)

This route is one of the toughest you will find east of the Rockies and should not be attempted by inexperienced mountain riders!