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MTB trails
United States
North Carolina
Orange County

Hillsborough

The best MTB trails around Hillsborough

4.5

(11)

249

riders

7

rides

If you've ever tried planning a mountain biking trip around Hillsborough, you know how quickly the options can pile up. With so many trails to choose from, it's tough to know which ones are genuinely worth your time and effort. That's where we come in. Our komoot community has mapped, ridden, and reviewed these routes, and we've curated this guide to save you the guesswork and point you straight to the trails that deliver.

Mountain biking around Hillsborough, NC, is…

Last updated: May 28, 2026

5.0

(7)

115

riders

#1.

Springhouse and Buckeye Loop

17.9km

01:30

110m

110m

The Springhouse and Buckeye Loop offers a delightful mountain biking experience through the scenic hardwood forests of Brumley Nature Preserve. This 11.1-mile (17.9 km) route, with its smooth singletrack and…

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Easy

The Brumley Forest Pond – Brumley Forest loop offers a delightful 6.9-mile (11.1 km) mountain biking experience through the varied landscapes of Brumley Forest Nature Preserve. This easy route, with…

Easy
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The Brumley Forest Pond loop offers a delightful mountain biking experience through the George and Julia Brumley Family Nature Preserve, despite its name suggesting a start from Johnston Mill Nature…

Easy

The Brumley Forest Pond loop offers a highly enjoyable mountain biking experience through mature hardwood forests and alongside streams. You'll find a mix of smooth, flowy singletrack and speedy sections,…

Easy

The Brumley Forest Pond – Brumley Forest loop from Brumley Forest Nature Preserve offers a fantastic, easy mountain biking experience, covering 4.5 miles (7.3 km) with only 169 feet (52…

Easy
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Tips from the Community

Matthew
January 18, 2024, Brumley Forest Pond

Brumley Forest Pond is a small reservoir within the Brumley Forest Nature Preserve. There is a singletrack trail that hugs the shores of the pond, which connects to the many miles of other trails on the property.

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The George and Julia Brumley Family Nature Preserve, also known as the Brumley Nature Preserve, is a 673-acre nature preserve with mixtures of mature and young hardwoods and pines. The park is also home to ponds and streams alongside the ruins of what was once planned as a town off New Hope Road.

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There are not many open areas in Brumley Forest, but this pond is one of them. If you don't mind a little detour, you can even enjoy your break on the pier. Be aware that you must dismount your bike for the few hundred feet connecting the MTB trail with the pond.

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This section is representative of the other trails you will encounter throughout Brumley Forest. Expect fun switchbacks, single tracks, and a few climbs and great descents.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How many mountain bike trails are available around Hillsborough?

There are 9 mountain bike trails around Hillsborough listed on komoot. The majority of these routes are rated as easy, making the area accessible for various skill levels.

Are there mountain bike trails suitable for beginners in Hillsborough?

Yes, Hillsborough offers several easy-difficulty mountain bike trails. For instance, the Springhouse and Buckeye Loop is an 17.9 km easy route with gentle climbs. Another good option is the Brumley Forest Pond loop from Brumley Forest Nature Preserve, which is a shorter 9.3 km easy trail.

What is the typical length of mountain bike trails in Hillsborough?

The mountain bike trails around Hillsborough vary in length. You can find shorter routes like the Brumley Forest Pond loop from Brumley Forest Nature Preserve at 9.3 km, or longer options such as the Brumley Forest Pond – Brumley Nature Preserve loop from Johnston Mill Nature Preserve, which extends to 27.2 km.

Are there any advanced mountain biking routes in Hillsborough?

The mountain bike trails around Hillsborough are predominantly easy to moderate. Out of 9 routes, 8 are rated easy and 1 is moderate. There are currently no trails explicitly rated as difficult or advanced in the immediate area according to komoot data.

What kind of terrain can I expect on Hillsborough's mountain bike trails?

The trails around Hillsborough traverse natural preserves and forested areas, such as Brumley Forest and Johnston Mill Nature Preserve. You can expect varied terrain with gentle elevation changes, winding through wooded sections and offering views of features like Brumley Forest Pond.

Are there any circular mountain bike routes in Hillsborough?

Yes, many of the mountain bike trails in Hillsborough are designed as loops. Examples include the Springhouse and Buckeye Loop and the Brumley Forest – Brumley Forest Pond loop from Brumley Forest Nature Preserve, both offering circular paths through the natural landscape.

What can I see along the mountain bike trails in Hillsborough?

While riding the mountain bike trails, you can explore natural features like the Brumley Forest Pond and sections of the Eno River. Some routes also pass by viewpoints such as the Overlook of the Abandoned Quarry.

What do other mountain bikers enjoy most about the trails in Hillsborough?

The mountain bike trails in Hillsborough are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.75 stars from over 20 reviews. Riders often praise the calm environment of the natural preserves, the well-maintained forested paths, and the suitability of the routes for a relaxed outdoor experience.

Is it possible to mountain bike in Hillsborough during winter?

Mountain biking in Hillsborough during winter is generally possible, as the region does not typically experience heavy snowfall that would make trails impassable. However, trail conditions can vary with rain and freezing temperatures, potentially leading to muddy or icy sections. Always check local weather and trail reports before heading out.

Are there any family-friendly mountain bike trails in Hillsborough?

Given that 8 out of 9 trails are rated as easy and feature gentle elevation changes, many of Hillsborough's mountain bike routes are suitable for families. The natural preserve settings offer a safe and enjoyable environment for riders of all ages. The Brumley Forest Pond – Brumley Nature Preserve loop from Duke Forest Edeburn Division, at 16 km, is an easy option that families might enjoy.

Are there opportunities to see wildlife while mountain biking in Hillsborough?

The mountain bike trails in Hillsborough pass through natural preserves and forested areas like Brumley Forest and Johnston Mill Nature Preserve. These environments are home to various local wildlife, offering opportunities for observation, especially during quieter times of day. Keep an eye out for birds, deer, and other small animals.

Are there cafes or places to eat near the mountain bike trails in Hillsborough?

While the trails themselves are primarily within natural preserves, the town of Hillsborough is nearby and offers various cafes and dining options. It's advisable to plan your route to start or end near the town if you wish to combine your ride with a visit to a cafe.

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