North Carolina has some the most beautiful outdoor scenery in the world. You can spend a day on the trails in the western part of the state at Lake James State Park or visit Hanging Rock State Park in the Triad Area. Wherever you choose to explore, this is a list of our top five places to mountain bike.

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5. Hanging Rock State Park

Since its creation in the 1930s, Hanging Rock State Park has offered the best of a traditional outdoor experience. In the park there are 73-site campgrounds, picnic grounds, and a whopping 8.4 miles of mountain biking trails. Vacation cabins are available for longer visits. Make the most of your visit, check out the lake for swimming and canoe rentals. Guaranteed are spectacular views of clear streams and waterfalls.

4. Lake Norman State Park

Lake Norman State Park, on the largest manmade lake in North Carolina, boasts one of the metrolina region’s more popular mountain biking network, offering 30.5 miles of single-track trail. A family campground with 32-sites and a group campground are available during warm-weather months with kitchen facilities available. Free interpretive programs are complemented by educational exhibits throughout the visitor center and along the child-friendly Dragonfly Trail.

3. Lake James State Park

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Lake James State Park offers a full menu of activities. In addition to boating, swimming and fishing in the beautiful, clear waters. There are 25 miles of trails, 15 of which are open to mountain biking. Trails vary from the short, educational Holly Discovery Trail with child-friendly activities, to the more adventurous, historic section of the Overmountain Victory Trail.

2. Dismal Swamp State Park

If you’re heading to the coast this summer, in addition to your bathing suit pack up your bike and head to Dismal Swamp State Park. This unique wilderness experience on a landscape that has been witness to American Indian hunting parties, exploration by George Washington and the story of the Underground Railroad. The park features 20 miles of trails, Mountain biking on the trails and kayaking the adjacent Dismal Swamp Canal are both encouraged. Visitors may bring their own equipment or rent at the park.

1. Medoc Mountain State Park

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Number one on our list is located in Hollister, NC. Medoc Mountain State Park. Visitors who want to ride the mountain bike trails should park at the visitor center and can access the trails by using the Bear Swamp Trail. The Saponi Loop bike trail spurs off from the Bear Swamp Trail and is 3.3 miles in length. Riders will get a moderate workout as part of the trail meanders through existing hiking trails. The Pyrite Loop Trail can be accessed from the Saponi Loop Trail and is 5.3 miles in length. The trail will offer riders a more difficult activity with several pinch points, stream crossings, and a banked turn.