Explore Asheville on Two Wheels: 6 Expert‑Curated Cycling Adventures
See Asheville From Behind the Bars
Asheville’s outdoors scene is a playground for cyclists, offering hundreds of miles of road and mountain biking routes. Whether you’re a seasoned rider or just looking for a scenic ride, these six tours showcase the city’s best without requiring advanced skills.
1. Velo Girl Rides
Velo Girl Rides (VGR) delivers a premium, fully supported touring experience. Their luxury van and trailer are stocked with spare parts, extra bikes, snacks, chairs, tables, and tents—so you can focus entirely on the ride.
Who it’s for: VGR targets the “avid recreational rider”—those who enjoy a solid challenge without needing to be a pro. Options include the Beer City Bicycle Tour, the Asheville Bike Tour to Cheese, and custom itineraries tailored to your interests.
2. Cycle to Farm
Designed by VGR, Cycle to Farm highlights Asheville’s local farms while delivering a classic cycling workout.
Who it’s for: Ideal for riders who love climbs and farm‑fresh food. The 63‑mile loop covers 5,300 feet of elevation gain, with farm stops every 10‑15 miles. The event ends with a farm‑to‑table meal, live music, and a range of swag.
3. Beer City Bicycles
Run by Frank and Michael, Beer City Bicycles offers both hybrid and mountain bikes with knowledgeable staff ready to recommend trails based on skill level.
Who it’s for: Great for those who want to rent a bike and hit the road immediately. Their favorite rides include Bent Creek Experimental Forest and Dupont State Forest, or a relaxed hybrid tour around town—talk it over a pint if you’re unsure.
4. The Biltmore
Explore the 8,000‑acre estate surrounding America’s largest home with miles of paths perfect for families and couples.
Who it’s for: Wooded trails for the adventurous, scenic paved routes by the French Broad River for casual riders. Rent beach cruisers, hybrids, or mountain bikes from the Biltmore Bike Barn, or bring your own—just check in for a trail map.
5. Kolo Bike Park
Four miles of purpose‑built mountain bike flow trails sit just outside downtown Asheville.
Who it’s for: Riders of all ages and skill levels, with beginner, intermediate, and advanced features. A new pump track for children opens in summer 2015, and plans for a fully advanced loop are underway. The park is adjacent to Asheville Treetops Adventure Park, offering a family day of biking, zip‑lining, and rappelling.
6. Moving Sidewalk Tours (Non‑Bicycle Bonus)
Take the Segway for a unique, city‑wide tour that’s both fun and a conversation starter.
Who it’s for: Anyone 14+ who enjoys trying new things. Guided tours begin at the Asheville Visitor Center, include 20‑30 minutes of training, and cover downtown’s concrete streets. Check the Moving Sidewalk FAQ for physical requirements and bathroom breaks.
Cycle to Farm photo by Larry Pierson. Biltmore photo courtesy of The Biltmore Company. Kolo Bike Park photo courtesy of Kolo Bike Park.
