Cycling Near Saluda
The Saluda - Hendersonville area already has a lot of great cycling, and even more is coming soon! The Ecusta Trail that will run from downtown Hendersonville to downtown Brevard - nicknamed "Main2Main" - is already under construction and the first 6 miles are open between Hendersonville and the town of Horse Shoe.
The Saluda Grade Trail has not broken ground yet, but plans have been approved and funding is mostly in place. The Saluda Grade Trail will run from Inman, SC to Zirconium, NC, just north of Saluda, with the Saluda stretch being the primary attraction, as it is home of the Saluda Grade. Built in the 1870s, it was the steepest standard-gauge mainline railway grade in the United States, climbing 606 feet in less than three miles with grades reaching up to 4.9% to 5.1%. With a connector from Zirconium to the Ecusta Trail, Cyclists in Saluda can ride to Hendersonville and all the way to Brevard.
Bike Shop
Adventure Cycles: Located on Hwy 176 across from Green River BBQ, this bike shop is the go-to place for equipment or repairs, ensuring you’re always ready to hit the road. Hours are Monday thru Friday 10-1, 3-5:30, Saturday 10-3, and by appointment. Chris Young has been a bicycle technician for 10 years, with Shimano, Fox, SRAM/Rockshox, and Park Tool Summit Training.
Saluda is renowned for its diverse cycling routes that cater to different levels of experience and adventure. Here are some of the top rides you might consider:
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1. Saluda Grade Loop This short but scenic ride takes you down the Saluda Grade and up through Pearson’s Falls for a total of 7.3 miles. Ideal for a quick ride that offers beautiful vistas without a long commitment. View Route on RideWithGPS
2. Greenville Watershed Out and Back Starting in either Saluda or at the Hotel Domestique, in Traveler's Rest, SC, this route covers 26.7 miles through the breathtaking Greenville Watershed, perfect for those who enjoy serene rides surrounded by nature. View Route on RideWithGPS | View Route on Strava
3. Wilderness Cove Road Biking Loop Offering 25 miles of pristine landscapes, this loop is great for cyclists looking to challenge themselves in a remote setting. View Route on RideWithGPS
4. Gran Frodo Hicapie Routes - For those looking for a more grueling challenge, the Gran Frodo Hicapie offers the Medio Route (49.1 miles) and the full Gran Frodo HIncapie Greenville Route (83.56 miles), featuring stunning landscapes and rigorous climbs. Medio Route on Strave | Gran Route on Strava
Mountain Bikers Might Enjoy Ride Kanuga
Check out this Mountain Bike Park in Hendersonville. Ride Kanuga website
