Biking Around Spartanburg
From the fast-paced, heart-pumping trails perfect for mountain biking to the challenging climbs in the Blue Ridge Mountains, enjoy life on two wheels in Spartanburg. Named South Carolina’s first Bicycle Friendly Community by the League of American Bicyclists, Spartanburg provides a safe place for cyclists to explore the outdoors.
On The Road
Challenging elevation changes plus scenic views from the Blue Ridge Mountains help to make Spartanburg a haven for road cyclists. Known as The Assaults, each year riders from around the country congregate to take on two of the toughest climbs east of the Mississippi River with the Assault on Mt. Mitchell and the Assault on Marion.
If you enjoy tough climbs, the Assault on Mt. Mitchell should be on your biking bucket list. With 102-miles to the top and a total elevation gain over 10,000-feet, the journey from Spartanburg to Mt. Mitchell State Park in North Carolina is one only recommended for seasoned vets and those skilled enough to take on such a tall feat.
For those still looking for a challenge, but want to work their way up before conquering the Assault on Mt. Mitchell, then register for the Assault on Marion. Clocking in at 74-miles long and an elevation gain above 2,000-feet, this ride combines beautiful views of the rolling hills with multiple climbs to get the heart pumping.
Take a break from the action and spectate one of Spartanburg’s biggest cycling events. Known as the “fastest night in Spartanburg,” the annual Criterium features fast-paced laps around a closed-circuit on the streets of Downtown during the annual Spring Fling. Watch from the sidelines as riders reach speeds up to 30 mph and navigate through tight turns all while avoiding getting eliminated.
If your idea of road cycling is more of a leisurely ride through the streets of downtown, be sure to check out our Around Town bike map. From the Mills and Hills loop to the Downtown loop, there’s an adventure waiting for you in Spartanburg.
On The Trails
Spartanburg’s miles of trails range from quick-paced downhill adventures at Croft State Park to casual strolls on the Mary Black Rail Trail, so you can find a trail that fits your riding level.
Just a short walk from downtown sits the head of the Mary Black Rail Trail, where cyclists can tackle the trail on one of the bikes in Spartanburg’s BCycle fleet. The bikes are rentable using the BCycle app for various time frames, allowing users to explore the city on two wheels. This cyclist-friendly urban trail is filled with activities to fill your afternoon as you cruise through the streets of downtown.
Unpack your mountain bike and head for the Vic Bailey Subaru Bike Park along the Rail Trail for wooden-banked turns, rollers, jumps, and an elevated half log trail. Opened in 2020, this park allows riders of all skill levels to cruise through the trees or soar through the air before taking a break in the Rest Garden and watching the other riders. If you’re looking for a more consistent pace of action, drop into the pump track or Straight Rhythm to test your skills. After an afternoon on the Rail Trail and tearing it up in the Bike Park, refuel with a trip to the nearby Flock Shop or Little Pigs BBQ.
South Carolina’s largest State Park, Croft State Park, sprawls 7,054 acres and is home to over 20 miles of trails waiting just for you. Weave your way through the trees and get the blood pumping with intermediate and difficult trails, or simply pedal next to Lake Craig for some picturesque views while enjoying the fresh air. For riders looking to push their limits, Southside Loop offers over 16-miles of changing elevations through the rolling terrain and along creek sides. Considered one of the easier trails in the park for biking, Fern Gully is a 1-mile branch of the Southside Loop.
In this Bicycle Friendly Community, cyclists have plenty of options for their two-wheeled adventures. Whether it’s on the road or through the trees, experience it in Spartanburg. If you’re looking for even more trails to get your heart pumping, check out our maps and guides for around town.
