The best gravel rides around Durham

Durham offers a good selection of gravel bike trails, with over 15 routes available for exploration. These range from easy to difficult, ensuring options for various skill levels.

You'll encounter diverse landscapes, from the woodlands and wetlands along the American Tobacco Trail to the lush forests of Duke Forest. Many routes also feature scenic river corridors, like the Eno River, and views of large lakes such as Lake Crabtree.

The komoot community highly rates the gravel biking experience in Durham, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 30 reviews. Riders often praise the varied terrain, the peaceful journey through natural areas, and the well-maintained multi-use paths.

Yes, Durham has several family-friendly options. Routes like the Reedy Creek Multiuse Trail – Chainsaw log loop from Lake Crabtree Dam are rated as easy, offering shorter distances and generally flat surfaces suitable for families. The northern, paved sections of the American Tobacco Trail also provide a smooth ride with gravel shoulders.

Many of Durham's gravel routes are designed as loops, providing a convenient way to start and end at the same point. Examples include the Lake Crabtree – Crabtree Creek loop from Morrisville and the Reedy Creek Multiuse Trail – Chainsaw log loop from Glen Royal Rd at Brownleigh Dr.

You'll find a mix of surfaces. The American Tobacco Trail features hard-packed gravel, especially in its southern sections, while Duke Forest offers extensive graveled roads and dirt trails. Multi-use paths around lakes and along creeks also provide varied hard-packed gravel and dirt surfaces.

While public transport options vary, many popular trailheads, especially for the American Tobacco Trail and routes around Lake Crabtree, offer dedicated parking areas. It's advisable to check specific trailhead information for parking availability before your ride.

Durham's gravel trails cater to a range of abilities. Out of 16 routes, 3 are considered easy, 12 are moderate, and 1 is difficult. This means you can find everything from gentle, flat rides to more challenging routes with greater elevation changes.

Many routes, particularly those closer to urban areas or popular parks, may have cafes or other amenities nearby. For example, the American Tobacco Trail passes through areas with access to various establishments, especially near its northern sections in Durham.

For scenic river views and the chance to see waterfalls, consider exploring areas around the Eno River. While specific gravel bike routes might not go directly to waterfalls, Eno River State Park, which preserves over nine miles of the scenic Eno River, offers nearly 30 miles of hiking trails with river views and waterfalls. You can often find connecting paths or nearby roads suitable for gravel bikes.

Spring and autumn generally offer the most pleasant conditions for gravel biking in Durham, with mild temperatures and beautiful foliage. Summers can be hot and humid, while winters are typically mild but can have occasional cold snaps or wet conditions that might affect trail surfaces.

While popular trails like the American Tobacco Trail can see more traffic, exploring the extensive graveled roads and dirt trails within Duke Forest often provides a more secluded experience. These routes wind through diverse ecosystems, offering a quieter ride.

Dog policies vary by specific trail and park. Generally, dogs on leashes are permitted on many multi-use trails and in parks like West Point on the Eno Park. Always check the specific rules for Duke Forest or Eno River State Park before bringing your dog, as regulations can differ.