Beaverdam State Recreation Area

The TORC supported mountain bike trails at Beaverdam State Recreation Area (part of Falls Lake State Park) offer approximately 14 miles of singletrack trails catering to various skill levels. These trails were built over 20 years ago by one of the MTB clubs that joined together to form TORC in 2005. So expect an old-school riding experience. The trails are rugged but have excellent drainage, so they may reopen quickly after rain.

Core Trail Loops

The trails are generally divided into three main areas starting from the parking lot trailhead:

Inner Loop (1.1 miles): A beginner-friendly green trail. It is a short, wooded ride that is relatively level but still features the roots typical of the area.
Outer Loop (2.2 miles): Another green-rated trail that is more popular for those looking for a slightly longer but still manageable beginner experience. It is concentric with the Inner Loop.
West Loop (2.3 miles): Rated as an intermediate blue trail, it serves as a gateway to the more advanced sections. It features more roots and some moderate technical spots compared to the northern loops.

Advanced Sections

South Loop (7.3 miles): The longest and most challenging trail in the system, often rated intermediate to advanced. It offers the most elevation gain and descent, with many drainage ditch crossings and narrow “handlebar-catcher” tree gaps. Once you begin this loop, you are committed to the full distance as it is one-way.
Drop Zone (0.9 miles): A black diamond expert trail located off the South Loop. It features steep banks and drops, designed to feel like an “outdoor roller-coaster”.

TRAIL MAP

Trail Characteristics & Amenities

Terrain: Expect a classic Piedmont experience with an abundance of exposed roots and rocks. While not as steep and challenging as nearby “New Light” trails, they are considered more challenging than some other TORC supported trails.
Navigation: Trails are well-marked with distance indicators every 0.2 miles, which are critical for providing locations to emergency services if needed.
Facilities: Parking is available at the Beaverdam Access, where you can also find a swim beach and fishing areas.

Other Details

Most trails are one-way (counter-clockwise) and bikes are strictly prohibited on non-cycling designated trails.
In addition to the trails, there are two parking lots, restrooms, picnic shelters, grills and a lakefront beach! Great if you want to bring your kayak, fishing pole, burgers, or the rest of the family and make a day of it.
At certain times, there is a fee of $7 per vehicle to enter the Recreation Area. The fee applies to bicycles too if you ride in.
Dogs must be kept on leashes at all times.
Alcoholic beverages are PROHIBITED
You must enter the trails from the trail entrance within the park. Entering the trails from anywhere else is illegal.
As with all TORC supported trails, helmets are mandatory.
Class 1 e-Bikes are [allowed?]