Overview of Dupont State Forest
DuPont State Recreational Forest, located near Brevard, North Carolina, spans over 10,000 acres and offers a diverse array of outdoor activities. Renowned for its stunning waterfalls—like High Falls, Triple Falls, and Hooker Falls—the forest provides a scenic backdrop for hikers, equestrians, and especially mountain bikers. With approximately 80 miles of multi-use trails, DuPont caters to both novice and experienced riders looking for variety, flow, and scenic exploration.
Terrain and Trail Features
The forest’s trail system includes a mix of singletrack and doubletrack routes that weave through hardwood forests, open meadows, and over exposed granite domes. Mountain bikers will encounter a mix of smooth, rolling trails and technically challenging sections, with roots, rocks, and moderate climbs. Trails like Cedar Rock and Big Rock offer a slickrock riding experience that feels more like the American Southwest than the Southern Appalachians.
With ample elevation changes and several loops available, riders can tailor their adventure to match their skill level and energy. The terrain offers everything from relaxing cruises through pine groves to adrenaline-pumping descents on exposed rock slabs.
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Accessibility and Trail Flow
DuPont’s infrastructure is designed for accessibility, with clear signage and well-maintained access roads that make it easy to reach key trailheads. Trails are often interconnected, which allows riders to piece together long loops or short out-and-backs. Shared use with hikers and horseback riders is common, but wide trail corridors and courteous trail etiquette help maintain a smooth user experience.
Read MoreNotable DuPont State Recreational Forest MTB Trails
Ridgeline – A local favorite and arguably the best flow trail in North Carolina. This intermediate trail delivers a smooth, fast descent filled with berms, gentle rollers, and sweeping turns.
Cedar Rock – A stunning ride over large granite slabs with expansive mountain views. Expect brief punchy climbs, technical rock sections, and an unforgettable slickrock experience.
Big Rock – Pairs well with Cedar Rock and adds steeper, more technical descents across exposed granite. Ideal for advanced riders looking to test their control and line selection.
Burnt Mountain – This lollipop loop combines strenuous climbs with rooty, off-camber descents. It’s technical, fast, and worth the burn.
Reasonover Creek – A moderate trail with varied terrain, including some short climbs, creek crossings, and fast, flowy descents through hardwood forest.
Lake Imaging Trail – A wide, smooth beginner-friendly trail perfect for families or as a warm-up loop before tackling more advanced trails deeper in the forest.
Camping Near DuPont State Recreational Forest
Camping is not allowed within DuPont State Recreational Forest itself, but several nearby campgrounds provide excellent access and amenities for mountain bikers:
DuPont Campground – Located just a mile from the forest. Offers both RV and tent sites with electric and water hookups. Amenities include picnic tables, fire rings, and direct trail access.
Black Forest Family Camping Resort – Situated in Cedar Mountain, this family-friendly site includes full-service amenities, cabin rentals, and shaded tent pads.
Ultimate Campground at DuPont – A rustic, bike-friendly option in Penrose. Includes both primitive and developed campsites with showers and easy access to major trailheads.
