From scenic greenways and family-friendly trails to historic rail routes and countryside road rides, Rowan County offers a variety of biking experiences for every skill level. Nestled in the North Carolina Piedmont, our county features a four-season climate, rolling landscapes, charming small towns, and more than 222 miles of biking routes connecting cities, parks, recreational areas, and points of interest.
Whether you’re looking for a leisurely afternoon ride, a challenging nature trail, or a full weekend cycling getaway, Rowan County is an original destination to explore on two wheels.
Explore Rowan County’s Bike Routes
Rowan County’s cycling network includes:
- 139 miles of signed biking routes
- 83 miles of unsigned connector routes
- Scenic rural roads favored by cyclists
- Paved greenways and park trails
- Nature preserves and rail trails
You can choose anything from a quick family outing to an all-day ride through the county’s countryside and historic communities.
Guided Tours & Bike Shops
Before you hit the trails, stop by one of Rowan County’s cycling hubs for rentals, repairs, local insight, or a guided ride.
Photo by The Pedal Factory.
Skinny Wheels Pedals & Pints
111 W. Innes St., Salisbury, NC 28144
Part bike shop, part social gathering spot, Skinny Wheels serves cyclists of all experience levels. The downtown shop offers bike sales, repairs, accessories, and local group rides, plus a beer and wine bar perfect for relaxing after a ride.
The Pedal Factory
311 E. Council St., Salisbury, NC 28144
This nonprofit community bike center focuses on making cycling accessible for everyone. The Pedal Factory repairs and recycles bicycles, supports community riding programs, and serves as a valuable resource for local riders and visitors alike.
Salisbury Bicycle Tours
Experience Downtown Salisbury from a new perspective on a guided, family-friendly bike tour by The Pedal Factory. These approximately 5-mile rides highlight historic landmarks, murals, public art, green spaces, local shops, and cultural sites throughout the city. Tours begin and end at The Pedal Factory and are ideal for beginners and visitors wanting a relaxed introduction to Salisbury.
Easy & Family-Friendly Bike Trails
Looking for a relaxed ride? These paved greenways and park trails are great for beginners, families, casual riders, and anyone wanting a smooth, scenic experience.
Photo of the Salisbury Greenway by Salisbury Parks & Recreation.
Salisbury Greenway
1825 W Park Rd., Salisbury, NC 28144
One of the county’s most popular greenway systems, the Salisbury Greenway connects multiple parks through paved paths, sidewalks, and neighborhood connectors. The system includes several segments totaling more than 4 miles and offers an easy, accessible ride close to Downtown Salisbury.
Kannapolis Greenways
Nearby Kannapolis features multiple paved paths ideal for biking and walking with the Kannapolis Greenways, including:
- Bakers Creek Greenway
- 8th Street Greenway
- Irish Buffalo Creek Greenway
Together, these trails create scenic loops and connections between parks including Bakers Creek Park, Village Park, Safrit Park, and Vietnam Veterans Park. Portions are also part of the Carolina Thread Trail network.
Granite Lake Park
500 N. Salisbury Ave., Granite Quarry, NC 28146
This small community park offers easy paved and dirt walking trails around a peaceful lake. Granite Lake Park is a great option for a casual ride with children or a relaxing afternoon outdoors.
Hurley Park
304 Annandale Ave., Salisbury, NC 28144
Known for its beautiful gardens, bridges, and wooded pathways, Hurley Park provides a quiet setting for leisurely biking and outdoor exploration.
Sloan Park
550 Sloan Rd., Mt Ulla, NC 28125
Located beside the historic Kerr Mill, Sloan Park features approximately 3 miles of relatively easy trails winding through open green space and wooded areas.
Town of Cleveland Park & Walking Trail
300 Clement St., Cleveland, NC 27013
The Town of Cleveland Park & Walking Trail is a 30-acre community park that includes a walking and running trail suitable for casual biking, along with picnic shelters, playgrounds, and athletic fields.
Moderate Trails & Scenic Rides
For riders wanting a little more adventure, these trails offer natural surfaces, wooded scenery, and unique historic experiences.
Photo of the Spencer Yadkin River Park Trailhead by the Town of Spencer.
Gold Hill Rail Trail
440 St. Stephens Church Rd., Gold Hill, NC 28071
The 2.2-mile Gold Hill Rail Trail follows a historic narrow-gauge railroad spur once used during the Gold Hill mining boom of the 1880s. The wooded trail connects the Historic Gold Hill district to preserved mining structures and scenic natural areas. It’s a peaceful ride with a blend of history and outdoor recreation.
After your ride, explore Gold Hill’s restored shops, historic buildings, and local attractions.
Spencer Yadkin River Park Trailhead
Opened in 2023, the Spencer Yadkin River Park Trailhead connects Spencer to the regional Yadkin River Park via the historic Wil-Cox Bridge, now dedicated to pedestrians and cyclists. Riders can enjoy scenic river views, access hiking and biking trails, and connect to recreational amenities on both sides of the Yadkin River.
The area is rich with history, from Native American settlements and Revolutionary War crossings to Civil War landmarks and industrial heritage.
Salisbury Community Park
Spanning more than 300 acres, Salisbury Community Park & Athletic Complex offers a mix of recreation and outdoor adventure for riders looking to explore beyond paved greenways. The park features approximately 8 miles of mountain bike trails winding through wooded natural areas, along with a paved 1-mile loop perfect for casual rides and warm-ups. Visitors can also enjoy scenic lake views, picnic areas, hiking trails, athletic fields, and a peaceful outdoor setting just minutes from Downtown Salisbury.
Challenging & Nature-Focused Trails
Ready for something more rugged? These trails are best suited for riders looking for natural terrain and off-road exploration.
Photo of Eagle Point Nature Preserve by Salisbury Parks & Recreation.
Eagle Point Nature Preserve
Located along High Rock Lake, Eagle Point Nature Preserve features more than 3 miles of natural trails through forests, coves, and wildlife habitats. The terrain is best suited for fat-tire bikes and more experienced riders comfortable with unpaved surfaces.
The preserve offers lake overlooks, wooded loops, wildlife viewing opportunities, and a peaceful backcountry atmosphere. Visitors may spot bald eagles, herons, deer, wild turkey, and other native wildlife along the trails.
Tips for Planning Your Ride
- Bring plenty of water, especially during summer rides.
- Wear a helmet and bright clothing for road visibility.
- Check trail conditions before visiting natural surface trails.
- Many greenways and parks include picnic shelters and restrooms.
- Downtown Salisbury makes a great starting point for food, shopping, and bike services before or after your ride.
Make It a Weekend Adventure
Turn your biking getaway into a full weekend adventure in Rowan County. After a day exploring scenic greenways, countryside routes, and historic trails, relax with an overnight stay at one of Rowan County’s lodging partners. With our Overnight Stay & Play Package, visitors can earn 50% back on their hotel stay to use at participating local attractions, restaurants, and businesses - making it even easier to extend your ride and discover more of what makes Rowan County original. Book your overnight stay through the Stay & Play widget below to start planning your cycling getaway.