The Unvarnished Beauty of Ft. Bragg's Bike Trails: A Comprehensive Review

Located in the Smith Lake Rec Area by Simmons Army Airfield, the Ft. Bragg bike trails in North Carolina offer a mixed bag of experiences that can both thrill and frustrate. Before we dig into the nitty-gritty, here's a snapshot of the trails:

• Distance: 8 miles (Total)
• Level: Ranges from Easy to Intermediate to Hard
• Route type: Out & Back
• Location: Ft. Bragg, North Carolina

Getting There

The trailhead starts conveniently by Simmons Army Airfield on State Hwy 210 in Ft. Bragg. It's particularly well-located for those living in or near the military post, offering a nearby haven for cyclists.

The Color-Coded Experience

The trails are color-coded for simplicity: Green (Easy), Blue (Intermediate), and Black (Hard). Additionally, there are two lesser-known trails: Red and Brown.

Green Trail

The Green trail is a beginner's dream, stretching about 2-3 miles of flat, sandy terrain. It's an excellent place for newbies, including kids. No surprises, no fuss.

Blue Trail

The Blue trail introduces a level of complexity with its ditches, but that's about it. Most of the ride is straightforward, and as an intermediate cyclist, you might be left wanting more.

Black Trail

On the Black trail, you're in for a more complete experience: logs, climbs, bridges, and ditches galore. The variety of obstacles adds excitement, but unfortunately, the trail is relatively short at about 2-3 miles.

Hidden Gems: Red and Brown Trails

The Red trail, ideal for family rides, branches off from the Blue trail and is approximately 2 miles long. The Brown trail, on the other hand, is the unsung hero of Ft. Bragg's bike trails. Extending about 4 miles, it starts and ends off the Black trail, featuring steep climbs, downhill sections, and even an almost-pump track near the end.

Additional Features and Challenges

• Wild jump lines, made of rocks and natural features
• Sand can be annoying, but it’s a constant in the area
• Some areas are overgrown; bug spray is recommended

Pro Tips and Summary

• The trail system drains quickly after rains thanks to its sandy nature.
• The area is typically not crowded, even on weekends.
• For a different experience, some locals suggest riding the trails backward, starting with the hard and working down to the easy.

While it's not without its quirks—excessive sand and some maintenance issues—Ft. Bragg's trails offer a lot for the local cycling community. It may not be a destination trail system, but it's a reliable local leg-stretcher with something for every level of cyclist. Whether you're looking to introduce your kids to mountain biking or seeking a more challenging ride, Ft. Bragg has you covered.