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United States
Massachusetts
Middlesex County

Pinehurst

The best MTB trails around Pinehurst

By Fede from komoot

Β·

Updated June 1, 2026

If you’ve ever tried to plan mountain biking around Pinehurst, you know how quickly the options can feel overwhelming. With so many trails out there, it’s tough to tell which routes are genuinely worth your time and which are just filler. We get it – you want to hit the trails that deliver the best experience, not waste precious riding hours on guesswork.

That’s where komoot comes in. Our community has ridden, reviewed, and mapped these routes, giving you a curated shortlist of the best mountain biking in Pinehurst. We’ve done the legwork so you can skip the endless searching and get straight to the good stuff.

Mountain biking around Pinehurst is all about the unique Carolina Sandhills region. Expect picturesque longleaf pine forests and predominantly sandy, well-drained soil, which means the trails often hold up well even after rain. You’ll find everything from easy greenways perfect for a relaxed spin to more challenging singletrack, offering varied terrain for all skill levels.

If you only do one ride, we’d point you to the Burlington Landlocked Forest Yellow Loop, a challenging 6.4 miles (10.3 km) route that’s a top favorite among local riders for its engaging terrain. For something a bit easier but still incredibly scenic, the Northern and Gilson Hill Loops Trail offers an easy 6.1 miles (9.9 km) ride through beautiful natural features. With more than 600 mountain bikers having explored Pinehurst with komoot, and routes averaging 4.4 stars, you’re in good hands.

If you only do 3 of these routes

  1. 1

    Burlington Landlocked Forest Yellow Loop
  2. 2

    Northern and Gilson Hill Loops Trail
  3. 3

    Abandoned car ruins loop from Simond's Brook Conservation Area

Compare these routes at a glance

Trail

Distance

Elevation

Difficulty

Burlington Landlocked Forest Yellow Loop

10.3Β km

90Β m

Hard

Northern and Gilson Hill Loops Trail

9.91Β km

80Β m

Easy

Abandoned car ruins loop from Simond's Brook Conservation Area

9.15Β km

90Β m

Easy

Burlington Landlocked Forest – Abandoned car ruins loop from Paint Mine Conservation Area

8.19Β km

80Β m

Hard

Billerica State Forest – Grinding Stone on Gilson Hill loop from North Billerica

7.80Β km

80Β m

Moderate

Landlocked Forest – Abandoned car ruins loop from Burlington Strip

6.67Β km

70Β m

Easy

Lexington Battle Green – Landlocked Forest loop from Lexington

24.4Β km

220Β m

Hard

Bannon Hill – Landlocked Forest loop from Burlington Strip

6.96Β km

60Β m

Easy

Minuteman Bikeway – Battle Road Trail loop from Lexington

25.9Β km

130Β m

Easy

Billerica State Forest – Pump Track loop from Page Brook Reservation

30.4Β km

210Β m

Moderate

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1.

Burlington Landlocked Forest Yellow Loop

10.3km

00:59

90m

90m

If you're seeking a technical mountain biking challenge near Burlington, the Landlocked Forest Yellow Loop offers a rewarding experience. This difficult 6.4-mile (10.3 km) route winds through thick woodlands and open meadows, featuring rooty singletrack and numerous rock features that demand skill. You'll navigate pleasant creeks and wetlands, often on boardwalks, and discover unique abandoned car ruins hidden within the forest. With 289 feet (88 metres) of elevation gain, expect a roughly 58-minute ride that truly tests your abilities.

Planning your visit is straightforward, with parking available under the power lines on Turning Mill Road or at Estabrook School during weekends and holidays. The Burlington Landlocked Forest Yellow Loop mountain biking trail is typically well-marked with yellow circle tags, though some areas might require closer attention to navigation. Be prepared for potentially muddy and slippery conditions, especially after rain, as the natural surfaces can be challenging.

The Landlocked Forest is a remarkable "urban oasis" that provides a deep sense of natural immersion despite its suburban surroundings. Beyond the Yellow Loop, the entire system boasts an impressive network of 13 miles of trails, including options for various skill levels. Keep an eye out for local wildlife like birds and deer as you explore this unique area, which blends challenging terrain with unexpected natural features.

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2.

Northern and Gilson Hill Loops Trail

9.91km

00:50

80m

80m

The Northern and Gilson Hill Loops Trail offers a fantastic mountain biking experience through the tranquil pine forests and diverse terrain of Billerica State Forest. You'll navigate high-quality singletrack, enjoying everything from flowy, serpentine sections to areas with natural roots and rocks. The route also incorporates fun technical features like berms, drops, and jumps, particularly on trails like 'Carbon Force', providing a dynamic ride for various skill levels.

This easy 6.2-mile (9.9 km) mountain biking route, with 279 feet (85 metres) of elevation gain, can be completed in about 50 minutes. Parking is available near the trailhead, and while the overall trail is accessible, some segments within the loops are rated as moderate. Consider visiting in spring or fall for the most comfortable temperatures and beautiful scenery.

Beyond the engaging ride, the trail holds a touch of history with the Grinding Stone on Gilson Hill, an ancient Native American artifact. The loops are also part of a larger interconnected network designed by the Merrimack Valley NEMBA, offering extensive riding options and showcasing excellent trail design that makes the most of the natural landscape.

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3.

Abandoned car ruins loop from Simond's Brook Conservation Area

9.15km

00:47

90m

90m

Easy mountain bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Suitable for all skill levels.

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6.

Landlocked Forest – Abandoned car ruins loop from Burlington Strip

6.67km

00:35

70m

70m

Explore the Landlocked Forest – Abandoned car ruins loop, a distinctive mountain biking trail that winds through a verdant oasis of dense woodlands and open meadows. This route offers a blend of natural surfaces, including dirt, roots, and rocks, with the unique experience of encountering numerous decaying, abandoned car ruins scattered throughout the forest, a fascinating relic of the area's past. You'll also spot interesting rock outcroppings and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of this natural gem.

This easy 4.1-mile (6.7 km) mountain biking loop, with a gentle 215 feet (66 metres) of elevation gain, is designed for a quick and enjoyable ride, typically taking around 35 minutes to complete. The trail is accessible for a wide range of riders, making it a great option for a casual outing. While specific parking information for the Burlington Strip trailhead isn't detailed, the area is generally easy to access, and it's advisable to check local conditions before your visit.

The Landlocked Forest is notable for its unexpected historical elements, particularly the abandoned car ruins, which are believed to be from a time when the area was a farm, cut off by the extension of Route 3. This unique feature transforms a standard forest ride into an exploratory journey through an outdoor museum, offering a compelling narrative alongside the natural beauty. It's a popular route for those seeking a blend of nature and history on their mountain biking trails.

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7.

Lexington Battle Green – Landlocked Forest loop from Lexington

24.4km

01:49

220m

220m

Hard mountain bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Advanced riding skills necessary. Some portions of the route may require you to push your bike.

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8.

Bannon Hill – Landlocked Forest loop from Burlington Strip

6.96km

00:37

60m

60m

The Bannon Hill – Landlocked Forest loop offers a diverse mountain biking experience, weaving through woodlands, meadows, and wetlands on primarily singletrack trails. You'll encounter varied surfaces, from rooty sections to technical features, and even unique sights like abandoned car ruins. The route provides a good mix of cross-country flow and optional challenges, making it an engaging ride for many skill levels.

This easy 4.3-mile (7.0 km) loop, with a modest 207 feet (63 metres) of elevation gain, can be completed in about 36 minutes. It's a popular destination for mountain bikers and dog walkers, so consider an earlier start to secure parking. The Landlocked Forest network has trails ranging from easy to more difficult, ensuring there's something for everyone.

What makes this area truly stand out is its blend of approachable riding with optional technical elements, all within a significant natural space amidst suburban development. The presence of glacial erratics also makes parts of the area suitable for bouldering, highlighting the diverse recreational opportunities available here.

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Tips from the Community

Andrus
September 11, 2024, Grinding Stone on Gilson Hill

An interesting part of the local history sits here on Gilson Hill. For hundreds of years the Native population of Massachusetts would come here to grind corn and other food staples. You can see the evidence across the face of the stone, where bits of rock were ground away along with the food.

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Alex
September 10, 2024, Abandoned car ruins

This open clearing in the Landlocked Forest, on the Milk Crate Trail, has some old, banged-up, graffitied cars. An interesting sight to pass by and a good open area to take a break in.

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0

An inconspicuous boulder with round indentations. Supposed to be used by native Americans to grind corn 🌽.

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Billerica State Forest, also known as Gibson Hill State Forest, is a state forest that is available for public use. This park is home to Gibson Hill, a 262-foot hill.

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Burlington Landlocked Forest, situated in Burlington, Massachusetts, is an urban oasis spanning 270 acres. This vibrant conservation area is an ideal spot between Concord and Lexington if you're looking for a nice hike in nature.

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rklinkhammer
September 10, 2022, Landlocked Forest

Be careful of the path that follows south along route 3. A couple of narrow spots over a drainage culvert.

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Landlocked Forest is a great playground for mountain bikers near in Burlington, MA around 30 minutes outside of Boston. This trails system is pretty small containing approximately twelve miles of mountain bike trails. It is worth coming here: You will find some great flow, jumps and features.

1

0

Billerica State Forest is very small but it has many great trails for intermediate riders. The south loop – aka Gilson Hill area – has lots of quality trails that can be combined to a fun loop.

1

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Frequently Asked Questions

How many mountain bike trails are available in Pinehurst?

Pinehurst offers a good selection of mountain biking opportunities, with over 30 routes available. These trails cater to various skill levels, from easy greenways to more challenging singletracks.

Are there mountain bike trails suitable for beginners in Pinehurst?

Yes, Pinehurst has several trails perfect for beginners. The region's greenways, like the Reservoir Park Loop and Nick's Creek Greenway, offer gentler rides. For a komoot-curated easy route, consider the Northern and Gilson Hill Loops Trail, which is 6.1 miles long with a moderate climb.

What makes mountain biking in Pinehurst unique?

Mountain biking in Pinehurst is characterized by its unique setting in the Carolina Sandhills. The terrain features ancient wind-blown sand sheets and rolling dunes, resulting in predominantly sandy, well-drained soil. This creates picturesque wooded landscapes dominated by longleaf pine forests, offering a distinct riding experience.

What is the best time of year for mountain biking in Pinehurst?

The well-drained, sandy terrain of the Sandhills means trails often dry quickly after rain, making them accessible year-round. However, spring and fall generally offer the most pleasant temperatures for riding, avoiding the peak heat of summer and potential chill of winter.

Are there any challenging mountain bike trails in Pinehurst?

For those seeking a challenge, Pinehurst does offer more difficult options. The Burlington Landlocked Forest Yellow Loop is a difficult 6.4-mile trail that navigates through the region's characteristic wooded terrain, featuring a notable elevation gain.

Can I find family-friendly mountain bike routes in Pinehurst?

Absolutely. The greenway system in Pinehurst and Southern Pines provides excellent family-friendly options. Trails like the Reservoir Park Loop (2 miles, green difficulty) and Nick's Creek Greenway (2 miles, gravel path) are suitable for various ages and skill levels, offering a gentle introduction to mountain biking.

Are dogs allowed on the mountain bike trails in Pinehurst?

Many outdoor areas in Pinehurst, including greenways and parks, are generally dog-friendly, often requiring dogs to be on a leash. It's always best to check specific park or trail regulations before heading out with your canine companion.

Where can I park when visiting mountain bike trails in Pinehurst?

Parking is typically available at trailheads and major access points for the greenways and parks in Pinehurst. For example, Reservoir Park and other community parks usually offer dedicated parking facilities for visitors accessing the trails.

What kind of natural features can I expect to see on the trails?

The trails in Pinehurst showcase the unique longleaf pine ecosystem of the Carolina Sandhills. You'll ride through majestic pine forests, encounter sandy soil, and experience the rolling topography of ancient dunes. The region's commitment to green spaces means you'll often be surrounded by diverse native vegetation.

Are there any loop mountain bike trails in Pinehurst?

Yes, many of the trails in Pinehurst are designed as loops or can be combined to form loop routes. For instance, the Abandoned car ruins loop from Simonds Brook is a 5.7-mile trail that offers a circular ride through the longleaf pine forests.

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

The mountain biking community highly rates the trails in Pinehurst, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 50 reviews on komoot. Riders often praise the unique sandy terrain, the scenic longleaf pine forests, and the variety of routes suitable for different abilities.

What other outdoor activities are available near the mountain bike trails?

Beyond mountain biking, Pinehurst offers a wide array of outdoor activities. You can explore hiking trails at Weymouth Woods Sandhills Nature Preserve, enjoy disc golf at West Community Park, or try kayaking and paddleboarding at Lake Pinehurst or Reservoir Park. The area is also famous for its world-class golf courses.

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