Thrift Cove

Thrift Cove Trail: Elevate Your Ride With Airtime and Elevation in Brevard, North Carolina

Essential Trail Info: Get the Basics Down

• Distance: 5 mi
• Level: Intermediate
• Route Type: Loop
• Location: Brevard, North Carolina

How to Get There: Your Starting Line

Originating from Asheville, jump onto I-26 South and take exit 9 (NC 280). Make a right towards Brevard and continue for approximately 15 miles until hitting US 276. Turn right; a massive rock sign indicating Pisgah N.F. confirms you're on track. Approximately 1.2 miles down the road, a parking lot presents itself on the right side, adjacent to the work center.

Navigating the Trail: Follow the Blazes

Starting from the parking lot, ride about 0.1 miles and make a right onto the Thrift Cove Trail. Adorned with red blazes, the trail leads to an intersection with Grass Road—make a left. For the descent, switch to the Black Mountain trail on the left, following the white blazes back to your starting point. Don't forget to enjoy the 'whoop te doos,' five sequential jumps that are a highlight for many riders.

Key Features:

• Elevation Change: 750 feet
• Trail Conditions: Smooth ascents and fast, flowy descents
• Technical Elements: Occasional roots and rocks but no extreme technical challenges
• Speed: Fast downhill sections, especially after passing Thrift Cove trail again

Rider Impressions: Hear it from the Community

Thrift Cove Trail receives applause for its rapid downhill sections and well-maintained conditions. Several riders rave about the recent improvements on the trail, stating the work has genuinely paid off. However, some see its brevity as a drawback, with the loop taking approximately 30-45 minutes to complete.This trail acts as a connector to Grassy Road and Lower Black Mountain trails, offering varied riding experiences. It's noted for a moderate but manageable uphill climb, making it a suitable warm-up for more strenuous routes. Thrift Cove Trail earns additional points for being an excellent after-work ride—providing exhilaration without exhausting your time.

Pro Tips for an Exhilarating Experience

1. Mind your speed, especially during the fast downhill sections.
2. Always line up straight before executing any jumps.
3. If short on time, this trail delivers a quick yet fulfilling ride.
4. For variety, consider riding Thrift Cove Trail in both directions.

Final Take: Your Quick Fix for Airtime and Adrenaline

Thrift Cove Trail, situated in Brevard, North Carolina, serves as a quick dose of mountain biking bliss. With a loop time of about 30-45 minutes and modest technical challenges, it's a ride that can be easily slotted into a tight schedule or combined with nearby trails for a more extensive excursion. Most notably, the 'whoop te doos' jumps stand as a memorable segment, adding airtime to your trail experience. Whether riding after a long workday or exploring the broader network of trails, Thrift Cove delivers a smile-inducing ride every time.