Coontree is one of those Pisgah trails that looks innocent on paper — barely more than a mile of singletrack — and then proceeds to rearrange your day. Tucked beside US‑276 at the Coontree Picnic Area outside Brevard, the loop packs steep switchbacks, rock steps, and tight creekside wood into a compact ride that’s famous locally for its fierce uphill hike‑a‑bike and its technical, ridgetop descent. For riders who prize punchy, technical lines over long mileage, Coontree delivers a memorable short outing in classic Pisgah hardwoods.
Getting there and trailhead details
The trailhead is immediately across US‑276 from the Coontree Picnic Area; parking and picnic facilities are clustered at that lot. From Asheville, follow I‑26 East to Hwy 280 and then take Hwy 276 into Pisgah — the picnic area is on the left as you head north toward Brevard. Expect a small parking area; do not block the highway. The picnic site is a common staging spot for hikes and water access in summer, and the Forest Service lists Coontree as a named site on maps of the Pisgah Ranger District. If you rely on on‑site services (restrooms, potable water), confirm current availability before you go — seasonal facilities and janitorial services can change.
Route character: short but savage
Coontree is a compact, roughly 1.1‑mile one‑way segment (the full loop is commonly described as ~3.7 miles when combined with connecting trail sections). Most people ride the loop counterclockwise so the steep pitches work uphill and the singletrack rolls out on the descent — but that choice depends on whether you want to suffer uphill or test your nerves on technical downhills. Expect sustained climbs, abrupt grade changes, exposed roots, and rock features that turn what looks like a mellow forest trail into a series of punchy obstacles. In one direction the route is often a steep hike‑a‑bike; ridden downhill it feels like a short, technical Pisgah descent.
Navigation & useful beta
The trail begins across from the picnic area and quickly picks up Coontree Creek before ascending toward Bennett Gap and tying into nearby ridge trails. The east side of the loop is noted by the Forest Service as the portion open to mountain bikes seasonally; many locals favor counterclockwise travel because of the grades and flow. The tread can be narrow in places and the route intersects other Pisgah trails — carry a current trail map (Pisgah Ranger District map or a reliable mapping app), and mark the picnic lot as your anchor point. Expect limited signage on some junctions; when in doubt, follow blazes and double‑check your tracks against a map.
Riding character and skill checklist
This is an advanced line: technical handling, confident braking on steep rock and root, and the ability to pick smooth lines through tight, twisty singletrack are essential. Because the climb is steep enough to require hike‑a‑bike, riders should be prepared to shoulder their bikes briefly. Tires with good traction, a dropper post (if you have one), and protection — at minimum a helmet and gloves — will make the ride safer and more enjoyable. Given the trail’s short length, you’ll likely repeat sections or link to nearby Pisgah singletrack, so plan accordingly for energy and time.
Safety, etiquette and seasonal rules
The Pisgah Ranger District publications specifically note seasonal mountain‑bike use on parts of Coontree: mountain biking is allowed on the east side of the loop seasonally from October 15 through April 15. Outside those dates you should assume higher hiker use and that bike access may be restricted on certain segments. Because the trail sits along a popular picnic and swimming area, watch for day‑hikers, families at the creek, and people crossing US‑276 at the picnic area. Practice standard share‑the‑trail etiquette: yield to uphill traffic where posted, announce passes, and slow for users unfamiliar with mountain biking. Finally, cell coverage can be spotty in Pisgah; carry a map, headlamp, basic tools, and extra water.
Local context and after‑ride options
Coontree sits in the southern Pisgah landscape that threads together popular day spots — Pink Beds, Sycamore Flats, and the Pisgah Visitor Center are all within a short drive. The picnic area itself provides a pleasant place to cool off or regroup after a lap; Pisgah’s network of trails lets you link Coontree to longer loops if you want more miles. Local organizations maintain and monitor trail conditions; if you’re visiting from out of town plan rentals or shuttle help through Brevard outfitters, and check Pisgah Ranger District or local trail‑group updates for any seasonal closures or recent workdays before you ride.
Getting there
From Asheville, head south on I-26E. Take the exit for Hwy. 280, and follow that Southwest towards Brevard. Hang a right on Hwy. 276, and that will take you into the heart of Pisgah. Drive a few miles down 276, and park on the left at the Coontree Picnic area. The trail starts back across the highway.
Frequently asked questions
How long is Coontree and how hard is it?
The loop’s core segment is short — the Coontree singletrack is roughly 1.1 miles one‑way, with the commonly used full loop described on official maps as about 3.7 miles when linked with adjacent trails. Difficulty is advanced: steep pitch, technical terrain, and sections that commonly require hike‑a‑bike make it a physically demanding outing despite the small distance.
When is biking allowed on Coontree?
the Pisgah Ranger District trail guides, mountain biking is permitted seasonally on the east side of the Coontree Loop from October 15 through April 15. Because rules and seasonal access can be updated, confirm current dates with the Pisgah Ranger District before planning a trip.
Where do I park and are there restrooms?
Park at the Coontree Picnic Area on US‑276; the trailhead is across the highway. The picnic area is shown on Forest Service maps and is described as having picnic tables and restroom facilities in some official guides, but facility availability can vary by season — check current conditions before you go.
Is the trail suitable for beginners or casual riders?
No — Coontree is best for experienced riders comfortable with steep, technical singletrack and occasional hike‑a‑bike. Beginners should choose less technical Pisgah routes (for example, easier sections of Pink Beds or other lower‑grade loops) and build up to Coontree.
Can I link Coontree into a longer ride?
Yes. Coontree sits in a dense network of Pisgah trails and road access points. Many riders combine it with nearby ridge lines or return adjacent connector trails to extend mileage. Carry a current Pisgah map or use a reliable mapping app to plan linkups and avoid unwanted road stretches.
A close-up ride-and-hike feature on Coontree Loop near Brevard, NC — a brief but demanding Pisgah line that rewards commitment with steep pitches, creek-side forest, and ridge-top singletrack. Practical route beta, safety notes, and local context for planning a smart visit.