Jackrabbit Mountain Bike Trails, Hayesville, NC
About Jackrabbit Mountain Bike Trails
The Jackrabbit Mountain Bike and Hiking Trail System, near Hayesville, NC, spans over 14 miles of singletrack trails. These trails, built for all skill levels, were developed by the Southern Appalachian Bicycle Association (SABA), the U.S. Forest Service, and the Clay County Communities Revitalization Association. Rated one of the top bike trails of North Carolina outdoor recreation. The trail was opened in 2011, the system lies in the Nantahala National Forest on the NC-GA border. For instance, the 3.1-mile Central Loop connects to trails like Burrell Cove and Rabbit Ridge, added in 2021. Additionally, trails wind through pine forests and along Lake Chatuge, offering scenic views. SABA maintains clear signage, ensuring easy navigation for all.
Jackrabbit Mountain Bike Trails
Located on a scenic peninsula by Lake Chatuge, Jackrabbit Mountain Bike Trails offer exciting adventures for hikers and biker and is one of the top rated North Carolina outdoor recreation bike trails. For example, this trail system in the Blue Ridge Mountains provides stunning lake views and well-maintained paths. Therefore, it’s a top destination for outdoor enthusiasts in North Carolina and Georgia. Cyclists enjoy fast singletrack, while hikers explore serene trails, creating unforgettable experiences.
Features of Jackrabbit Bike Trails
- Stacked-Loop Design: The 3.1-mile Central Loop links to side trails, allowing routes from 3 to 15 miles.
- Scenic Lake Views: Trails by Lake Chatuge offer stunning vistas, perfect for photos.
- Varied Terrain: For example, smooth singletrack suits bikers, while gentle paths attract hikers.
- Well-Maintained Paths: SABA ensures trails stay groomed with clear signage for safety.
- Family-Friendly Recreation: The nearby campground offers 92 sites, a beach, and picnic areas.
- Skill-Building Opportunities: A skills trail helps cyclists improve, while hikers enjoy easy paths.
Visitor Information
- Location: Jackrabbit Mountain Recreation Area, NC-175, Hayesville, NC 28904.
- Directions: From Murphy, NC, take US Hwy 64 East for 18.9 miles. Turn right on NC Hwy 175 South, go 2.5 miles, then turn right onto Jack Rabbit Road. Bear left after 250 ft; parking is on the left after 0.5 miles. From Franklin, NC, take US Hwy 64 West for 28.3 miles, turn left on NC Hwy 175 South, and follow the same route.
- Trail Length: Over 14 miles, with a 3.1-mile Central Loop and additional loops.
- Difficulty: Easy to moderate; some side trails are technical for advanced bikers.
- Activities: Mountain biking, hiking, camping, fishing, boating, and swimming nearby.
- Facilities: Free parking, pit toilets, picnic tables, grills, bike repair stand, and wash station.
- Fees: No trail fees; camping fees apply at the campground
- Safety Tips: Hikers should watch for bikers around turns. Additionally, wear blaze orange during hunting season. Avoid poison ivy on paths.
- Trail Conditions: Trails are well-maintained but may have wet spots after rain. For example, check AllTrails.com for updates.
- Nearby Attractions: Visit Brasstown Bald or enjoy Lake Chatuge. Camping nearby at Jackrabbit Campground or swim at Jackrabbit Recreation Area
Contact
For Recreation Inquiries
- Clay County Chamber of Commerce
Phone: (828) 389-3704
Website: Clay County Chamber
Address: 2390 NC-69, Hayesville, NC 28904
For trail events, recreation, or tourism info - U.S. Forest Service – Tusquittee Ranger District (NC)
Phone: (828) 837-5152
Website: U.S. Forest Service NC
Address: 123 Woodland Dr, Murphy, NC 28906 - Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest (GA)
Phone: (706) 745-6928
Website: U.S. Forest Service GA
Address: 2042 Highway 515 West, Blairsville, GA 30512
Contact Advantage Chatuge Realty
Phone: +1-828-508-0803
Email: gward828@gmail.com
For NC or GA mountain properties near biking and hiking trails, contact Gary Ward
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Buying property is a huge investment. Having someone who keeps your interest in mind can mean the difference between a good investment and a poor one. Some realtors only look at the bottom line. Gary Ward of Advantage Chatuge Realty is an honest family man with strong values, that is why we say to always ask for Gary if you are looking for property in this area or if you are wanting to list your property here. It is the only way we can assure you that you are getting the quality, honesty, and assistance you deserve. Working as a Broker for over 25 years in the north Georgia and North Carolina Mountain area, he will show you any available property and will represent you as a buyer’s agent as long as it is not his listing, in that case he is representing the seller and he will tell you that up front. Either way, you will always know where you stand and be well-informed. His knowledge and expertise in the area will put your mind at ease.