Research Triangle Park Mountain Bike Trail: A Local Gem Worth the Ride

Quick Overview

• Distance: 5 miles
• Level: Intermediate
• Route Type: Network
• City: Durham
• State: North Carolina

Introduction

Nestled in the bustling tech hub of Durham, North Carolina, the Research Triangle Park Mountain Bike Trail offers a delightful escape for riders seeking a quick thrill. With just about 5 miles of track, it may not be the longest trail out there, but its unique features make it a hidden gem. Whether it's the purpose-built rock garden or the courteous community, this trail has much to offer.

The Trail Features: More Than Meets the Eye

This single-track network comes with an array of interesting features to keep riders engaged. There are a couple of jumps, some neat wooden planks to ride, and a few rooty sections. Elevation changes are minimal, but the trail compensates with its technical elements.

• Purpose-built 12ft rock garden
• Skinny bridge
• Semi-natural pump sections
• Rooty sections with little elevation change

Getting There

To access the trail, turn east off Highway 55 onto Kitt Park Road. Make a right on Louis Stephens and continue until you spot volleyball courts on the west side. The trailhead is adjacent to these courts, offering convenient parking.

Rider Impressions

The trail is often described as an excellent after-work location to catch some saddle time. Its proximity to residential areas makes it particularly attractive for quick spins. While seasoned riders may find it somewhat small, it serves as an excellent ground for new riders to hone their skills.The community around this trail stands out for its courteousness, especially to slower or newer riders. The trail is well-marked, but during peak hours after work, it can get a bit congested. A recurring suggestion among users is to introduce clear "one-way only" signs to mitigate the risk of collisions around blind corners.

Points to Consider

• Safety: The trail has a number of blind corners. A clear directional system could improve safety.
• Crowd: The trail tends to get busier after work hours.
• Signage: While the trail is marked with arrows, a more detailed signage system could help newcomers.

Final Thoughts

Overall, the Research Triangle Park Mountain Bike Trail offers a pocket-sized adventure perfect for those looking to squeeze in a quick ride. For those living in the area or with young family members looking to get into mountain biking, this trail comes highly recommended. Despite its small size, it packs a punch and offers a distinct, enjoyable experience.