Mountain Biking the Big Ivy (Coleman Boundary) Area

Overview

The "Coleman Boundary" area, as it is locally known, is actually called Big Ivy by the National Forest (a sign at the entrance to FR 74 attests to this fact). However, people have called it by the former name for many years, and will continue to do so for the foreseeable future, so we call it both.

The area is located northeast of Asheville and encompasses the watersheds of Carter and Dillingham creeks - headwaters for the Big Ivy River, which give the area its official name. These Pisgah National Forest lands are draped across the Great Craggy Mountains and the westernmost fringes of the Black Mountains, which also contain Mount Mitchell, the highest point east of the Mississippi River. This mountain area, bordered by the Blue Ridge Parkway to the east, contains some of the most rugged and scenic terrain in Western NC.

Many significant attractions can be found here: large waterfalls and cascades (notably Walker Falls and 70 foot free falling Douglas Falls); sheer rock cliffs which draw rock climbers from afar; and scenic forests and streams. Rare old growth and virgin forests with enormous trees make the area ecologically significant; the Craggy Mountain Scenic Area encompasses a section of Big Ivy. At the time when there was a push to create a National Park in the Southern Appalachians, this entire region was under consideration for being made into a National Park (as was the Great Smoky Mountains). Now, however, much of it is under National Forest Service ownership and mountain biking is allowed on most of the trails.

Riding here is made more worthwhile for the rugged, backcountry nature of the trails and the incredible natural beauty. An 8-mile gravel road, FR 74, traverses the area, and is popular for mountain biking. Seven singletrack trails are also open to mountain bikes. Horseback riding is also popular in this area, so be extra aware of horses when riding here.

Camping & Lodging

Camping

No developed camping is offered in this area. Backcountry camping is allowed as long as you are 500 feet from roads and the picnic area, and not in designated wildlife openings.

Lodging

The town of Mars Hill presents options for lodging closest to this area and Asheville has most major chain hotels/motels, about a 40 minute drive.

Apple Blossom Cottage
Mountain biking, road riding and hiking galore are only minutes from Apple Blossom Cottage. We're 5 miles from the Blue Ridge Parkway (milepost # 405.5), 10 minutes from Pisgah National forest, 20 minutes from Bent Creek trails and 20 minutes from downtown Asheville! Come back to the cottage after a fun filled day...wash and then store your bikes in the basement, enjoy a cool one on either the front or back porch, then head to the hot tub where you can sit and relax while gazing overhead at the stars and moon while enjoying the luminance of the fireflies! And don't forget...we're PET FRIENDLY!
http://www.ashevillecabinscottagesandmore.com/

Dry Ridge Inn
Most important to your Asheville getaway is a warm welcome and courteous attention. This is what you will receive at the Dry Ridge Inn, located in Weaverville, NC. Our historical three story home has eight rooms and all include private baths, gas fireplaces, and Cable TV and DVD Player. Some can be combined to make suites for large families. Our bed and breakfast country inn is just a short drive from the Blue Ridge Parkway - ideal for recreation or simply to enjoy the enchantment of the Blue Ridge mountains. The Biltmore Estate and downtown Asheville are also just 10 minutes away, and the Coleman Boundary area is a scenic 20 minute drive. The inn provides a wonderful getaway for those romantic special occasions: honeymoons, an anniversary, or any other time when romance is in the air! Our desire is that your stay with us at our bed and breakfast accommodation be a comfortable, happy, and memorable one. You will find our home comfortable, food delicious and our spacious grounds inviting and relaxing. Enjoy a book on the porch swing or gaze into the water garden and let the waterfall soothe you.
http://www.dryridgeinn.com

Wolf Branch Cabin
This cabin is located 34 miles (or a 40-minute drive) north of downtown Asheville, on 25 private acres surrounded by trees & water. The cabin is about 12 miles from the Appalachian Trail where it crosses Sam's Gap at the NC/TN state line. Enjoy soaking in the hot tub on the deck while listening to the creek, which runs right in front of the cabin. This cabin has 2 bedrooms. The main BR is in the loft with a skylight over the bed - great for stargazing! The kitchen & 1.5 baths are fully equipped. Amenities include a gas grill, satellite TV, XM radio, extensive movie, book & CD collection, gas fireplace, W&D, privacy, and much more. Linens are provided plus Pets are Welcome!
http://www.accandm.com

Directions

From Asheville, take US 19-23 north (4-lane) for about 11 miles. Take the Jupiter/Barnardsville (NC 197) exit. Turn right toward Barnardsville and follow NC 197 (2-lane highway) about 6 miles to the town of Barnardsville. Turn right onto Dillingham Road just past the fire station. It's about 6 miles to the National Forest - stay on Dillingham Road. You will cross a one-lane bridge and the road will turn into gravel FR 74. Several rides start at the Corner Rock picnic area, about .4 mi up this road, on the right, across a concrete bridge. See a map for getting there.