Backyard Trails

The Backyard Trails are an urban mountain biking network located in Charlotte, North Carolina. They are primarily situated within Park Road Park, offering a natural escape right within the city limits.

While the overall route on komoot is rated as 'easy' due to its length and elevation, many sections of the Backyard Trails are considered highly technical. Riders can expect black diamond and even double black diamond features, especially on jump trails. It's a challenging system best suited for experienced mountain bikers.

Due to the highly technical nature, including rock gardens, drops, wooden structures, and mandatory gap jumps, the Backyard Trails are generally not recommended for beginners or those returning to the sport after a long break. There are progressive features, but many require advanced skills.

You'll find tight and twisty singletrack winding through a dense forest. The terrain features a mix of natural and man-made obstacles, such as technical sections, rock gardens, punchy climbs and descents, and various wooden structures like skinnies, rock bridges, and ladder features. There are also dedicated flow jump trails. Be aware that the trails can become significantly more difficult and janky when wet.

The trails offer several unique points of interest. You might encounter the Park Loop Road Twists, a Black Diamond Trail Difficulty Warning indicating challenging sections, and even an Abandoned 1950s Car in the Woods. The network is also known for its 'OG Jump Line,' considered the best downhill jump line in the Piedmont.

Parking is available at Park Road Park, which serves as a primary access point for the trail system. The trails are accessible from various points within the park.

The trails can be ridden year-round, but conditions vary. They are best enjoyed when dry, as the technical sections become exponentially more difficult and potentially hazardous when wet. Spring and fall often offer the most pleasant riding conditions.

Specific regulations for dogs on the Backyard Trails themselves are not detailed, but as they are located within Park Road Park, it's generally advisable to check park rules regarding pets. Typically, dogs are allowed on leash in Charlotte city parks.

No, there are no specific fees or permits required to access and ride the Backyard Trails. They are part of a public park system.

Yes, the route intersects with several other paths. Notably, it runs alongside sections of the Little Sugar Creek Greenway and the Cross Charlotte Trail. Other official trails you might encounter include Middle Third, Farmbrook Loop, and the Tech Loop.

As a public park in Charlotte, standard city park regulations apply. These typically include rules about park hours, littering, pet leash laws, and respecting other park users. There are no specific entrance fees for Park Road Park.