Hickory Mountain Loop

An Exhilarating Loop Near Ridgeline: A Cyclist's Guide to This DuPont State Forest Trail

Quick Stats: The Trail at a Glance

• Distance: 1 mi
• Difficulty: Intermediate
• Route Type: Loop
• Location: Brevard, North Carolina
• Coordinates: 35.2196121, -82.6011579

The Primer: What Makes This Loop Unique?

Nestled in DuPont State Forest, this 1-mile loop serves as a magnificent prelude to the renowned Ridgeline Downhill. Offering a steady climb followed by an engaging downhill section, the trail brings a splash of variety to the already adrenaline-pumping experiences in this corner of the forest.

Getting There: Your Gateway to Adventure

Access to the trail is straightforward. Just navigate to the coordinates 35.2196121, -82.6011579 and you're good to go. A well-marked trailhead sets the stage for the experience that awaits.

The Ride: Directional Choices and Trail Features

The trail offers something for everyone, but directionality plays a big role in the kind of experience you'll have. Go counter-clockwise for a thrilling, fast descent that seamlessly connects to the Ridgeline Trail. Opt for the clockwise route if you're after a more gradual, longer downhill portion. Either way, it's a win-win situation.

Pro Tips and Insights:

• Directionality Matters: Choose counter-clockwise for a short, steep descent; go clockwise for a more leveled experience.
• Off-Camber Rock: Be cautious of a particular off-camber rock that can be tricky when riding the trail counter-clockwise.
• Elevation Boost: This loop provides some welcomed bonus elevation that perfectly sets up the Ridgeline descent.
• Viewpoints: While the views are partially obstructed by trees, you'll still find snippets of vistas at the trail's pinnacle.

How it Compares: Integration into the Ridgeline Loop

The general consensus among experienced riders is that this loop functions excellently as a supplementary addition to a Ridgeline outing. With its fun descents and challenging features, the trail amplifies the overall enjoyment and elevates the heart-pumping action.

In Conclusion: An Essential Addition to Your DuPont Experience

In terms of variety, challenge, and sheer fun, this 1-mile loop delivers. While it may lack the grandeur of some longer trails, it compensates with an array of elements that test both skill and nerve. Definitely add this trail to your Ridgeline loop to experience the full spectrum of what DuPont State Forest has to offer. A trail not to be overlooked, and most certainly not to be underestimated.