Pedestrian Bridge Over US 74 – Bechtler Mint Historical Site loop from Thermal Belt Rail Trail - Pine Street Parking
Pedestrian Bridge Over US 74 – Bechtler Mint Historical Site loop from Thermal Belt Rail Trail - Pine Street Parking
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Pedestrian Bridge Over US 74 – Bechtler Mint Historical Site loop from Thermal Belt Rail Trail - Pine Street Parking
05:17
103km
1,060m
Road cycling
Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride. The starting point of the route is right next to a parking lot.
Last updated: May 9, 2026
Tips
The surface for a segment of your route may not be suitable
Some segments of your route comprise a surface that may not be suitable for your chosen sport.
After 85.8 km for 173 m
Waypoints
Start point
Parking
Get Directions
102 m
Pedestrian Bridge Over US 74
Highlight • Bridge
13.7 km
Piney Mountain
Highlight • Summit
28.0 km
Jack Moore Mountain
Highlight • Summit
85.8 km
Bechtler Mint Historical Site
Highlight • Historical Site
Tip by
87.8 km
Thermal Belt Greenway
Highlight • Cycleway
103 km
End point
Parking
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
47.4 km
29.1 km
21.3 km
4.88 km
144 m
< 100 m
Surfaces
53.5 km
48.8 km
270 m
167 m
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Elevation
Highest point (390 m)
Lowest point (240 m)
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Weather
Powered by Foreca
Today
Friday 26 June
31°C
17°C
58 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 14.0 km/h
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Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Description
If you're looking for a substantial road cycling challenge that combines history with diverse scenery, the Pedestrian Bridge Over US 74 – Bechtler Mint Historical Site loop from Thermal Belt Rail Trail - Pine Street Parking is a compelling option. This difficult 63.8-mile (102.6 km) road cycling route features 3483 feet (1061 metres) of elevation gain and takes approximately 5 hours and 16 minutes to complete, making it ideal for experienced cyclists seeking a long day out on smooth, paved surfaces.
What to expect on Pedestrian Bridge Over US 74 – Bechtler Mint Historical Site loop from Thermal Belt Rail Trail - Pine Street Parking
This extensive loop primarily follows the Thermal Belt Rail Trail, a well-maintained, 12-foot-wide paved asphalt path that offers a generally smooth ride. You'll journey through a varied landscape, transitioning from rural and wooded sections to charming small towns like Gilkey, Ruth, Spindale, Rutherfordton, and Forest City. Keep an eye out for the significant Pedestrian Bridge Over US 74, a notable landmark, and be sure to explore the Bechtler Mint Historical Site, where America's first $1 gold coin was minted. While the rail trail itself is known for its minimal grade, the overall distance and cumulative elevation gain of this loop classify it as a difficult ride, best suited for cyclists with good endurance.
Planning your visit
The Thermal Belt Rail Trail is well-equipped with amenities, including bike repair stations, fountains, and shelters along its length. Pine Street Parking serves as a convenient starting point, offering direct access to the rail trail and proximity to the US 74 bridge. The trail is generally accessible year-round, but checking local weather conditions is always advisable for a comfortable ride. Remember to carry sufficient water and snacks for this long-distance journey.
Trail details
- Distance: 63.8 miles (102.6 km)
- Elevation gain: 3483 feet (1061 metres)
- Difficulty: difficult
- Estimated time: 5 hours and 16 minutes
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