The best road cycling routes in Haywood County

Haywood County offers a diverse network of over 20 road cycling routes, catering to various skill levels. These routes traverse the stunning Blue Ridge Mountains, including sections of the iconic Blue Ridge Parkway and areas bordering the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

Road cycling in Haywood County is characterized by mountainous terrain with significant elevation changes. You'll find winding mountain roads, high-elevation balds, and forested areas. Routes range from moderate sections with gradual climbs to challenging segments with substantial ascents, such as the climb to Waterrock Knob from Soco Gap, offering panoramic views.

While many routes feature significant climbs, there are options for easier rides. For instance, a section of the Mountains to Sea route offers a more gentle experience. The Town of Waynesville has also implemented a bicycle plan with designated lanes, providing accessible paths within the town for exercise and recreation.

Haywood County's routes offer breathtaking vistas. You can cycle past high-elevation balds, including the tallest grassy bald in the Appalachian range, and enjoy sweeping views from overlooks along the Blue Ridge Parkway. Notable viewpoints include Graveyard Fields Overlook and the area around Mount Pisgah Summit & Observation Area, which you can experience on routes like the Graveyard Fields Overlook – Pounding Mill Overlook loop from Mount Pisgah.

Yes, experienced riders will find plenty of challenging options. Routes like the Blue Ridge Parkway & Lake Logan Road loop cover over 44 miles with significant elevation gain. Another demanding option is the Mountains to Sea Bicycle Route, which features over 1000 meters of climbing.

The spring, summer, and fall months generally offer the most favorable conditions for road cycling in Haywood County, with pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery. The Blue Ridge Parkway, a central feature of many routes, is particularly stunning during autumn with its fall foliage. Cyclists should be aware that higher elevations can experience cooler temperatures and potential road closures due to snow or ice in winter.

Yes, many road cycling routes in Haywood County are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the popular Roadbike loop from Waynesville, which explores the local countryside, and the Lake Logan – Lake Logan loop from Cold Mountain Gameland.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Reviewers often praise the stunning mountain vistas, the challenging yet rewarding climbs, and the opportunity to cycle along sections of the iconic Blue Ridge Parkway. The diverse terrain and natural beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains are consistently highlighted as major draws.

Beyond the scenic routes themselves, Haywood County offers several points of interest. Cyclists can find routes near significant peaks like Black Balsam Knob and Tennent Mountain summit. The region also borders the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, offering access to areas like Cataloochee Valley, known for historic farmsteads and elk sightings.

While specific cafes directly on every route may vary, Haywood County has actively supported cycling with 'bicycle outposts' like Bethel Grocery Store, which cater to cyclists by stocking relevant supplies. The town of Waynesville, a central hub, also offers various amenities. For more information on local businesses and visitor resources, you can visit visithaywood.com.

Yes, Cold Mountain, made famous by the novel and film, is a prominent peak within Haywood County's dramatic mountainous backdrop. While not all routes directly ascend it, many routes in the region, such as the Lake Logan – Wolf Bald loop from Jukebox Junction Restaurant and Soda Shop, offer expansive views of the surrounding landscape, including glimpses of this iconic mountain.