North Slope is a short, steep piece of Pisgah singletrack tucked into the Davidson River corridor outside Brevard, North Carolina. It begins in the Davidson River Campground, climbs the flank of North Slope Ridge, connects with the Art Loeb a steep connector, then follows an old road and singletrack back down toward the campground amphitheater. Because of its riverside start, steep climbs, technical roots and rock, and short length, North Slope is often ridden as a quick shuttle-friendly loop or as a technical warm-up/cool-down for longer Pisgah rides.
Quick facts & access
Trail identifiers and length vary by the Pisgah Ranger District trail guide lists North Slope as Trail #359 and gives roughly 3.7 miles; other trail directories list it at about 3.4 miles. The official approach is US 276: turn into the Davidson River Campground parking area and use the Art Loeb Trailhead / amphitheater parking as the walking/riding access described in the ranger guide. Note the seasonal mountain-bike allowance: North Slope is managed with a seasonal window for bikes (October 15 through April 15). Confirm parking rules and any temporary closures before you go.
Route and route-finding
From the amphitheater/Art Loeb parking area, follow the connector through the campground toward the Laurel Loop and find the signed North Slope trailhead (between campsites). The trail initially runs near the Davidson River and then turns inland to climb the flank of North Slope Ridge. There is a fork early on — take the right-hand line as the guide describes. Near the crest the North Slope Connector climbs steeply up to the Art Loeb; the main North Slope continues left and follows an old roadbed before descending. The trail terminates back at the campground amphitheater lot; use the paved campground road to return to your vehicle. Blaze color is orange.
Riding character and technical details
Expect a compact ride that mixes flowing riverside singletrack, punchy, sometimes-unrideable climbs, and a long, rooty/rocky descent. Soil and tread vary — sections of old roadbed provide easier pedaling, but many spots are rock- and root-dominated. Footbridges and wooden structures exist along the sidehill; these can be slick when wet. Because the grade sometimes falls into a fall-line descent, line choice and good braking technique are important. The trail is most commonly described as intermediate in difficulty, but a handful of very steep pitches and technical sections can push the outing into the advanced zone for less experienced riders.
Scenery and seasonality
North Slope sits in the Davidson River valley so the ride begins with river views and forested coves. Mountain laurel puts on a strong show in late spring along the climb; however, because mountain-biking is restricted to a defined season, many riders experience the trail in fall, winter, and early spring when colors and low foliage improve sight lines. Summer use by hikers and campers can be heavy; check seasonal use windows and anticipate more foot traffic if you visit outside the bike season.
Safety, etiquette, and logistics
Helmets, a working brake system, and a basic repair kit are essential. Expect limited cell service in parts of Pisgah; carry a map, know the campground roads, and leave an itinerary with someone if you’re heading into ridge-top connections. The Davidson River Campground enforces parking and campground rules—do not park in campsites or on grass. Because the trail runs close to campsites and the river, yield to hikers, announce passes, and follow Pisgah area rules. If you plan a shuttle or a ride that combines North Slope with Art Loeb or other Pisgah trails, factor in steeper connector climbs and possibly road shuttles.
Local context and after-ride options
North Slope is a compact taste of Pisgah terrain that pairs well with nearby classic rides (Farlow Gap, Art Loeb segments, or nearby Pisgah singletrack loops). Brevard offers multiple bike shops and services for rentals and repairs, plus cafes and taprooms for post-ride food. Because the trail begins and ends at Davidson River Campground, it’s an easy add-on for campers or an afternoon visit for travelers based in Brevard. Always check campground parking procedures and local trail-condition updates before planning an itinerary.
Getting there
From Asheville, take I-26 South to exit 9 (NC 280). Go right towards Brevard. Go approximately 15 miles to US 276. Turn right. You will see the huge rock sign that says Pisgah N.F. Go about a mile to the Davidson River campground. Park at the parking lot on the left and begin the ride across the bridge.
Frequently asked questions
When can I legally ride my mountain bike on North Slope?
North Slope is seasonally open to mountain bikes from October 15 through April 15 under Pisgah Ranger District management. Confirm current seasonal dates or temporary changes with the ranger district before traveling.
Where do I park and how do I reach the trailhead?
Park at the Art Loeb Trailhead / Davidson River Campground parking area. Walk or ride into the campground toward the amphitheater; the North Slope trailhead sits near the Laurel Loop between campsites. Follow the campground route described on local trail guides rather than parking in campsites or on roads.
How technical is the trail and what bike is best?
The trail is generally rated intermediate but contains several very steep pitches, rocky/rooty descent sections, and narrow sidehill tread. A trail or all‑mountain bike with good brakes and modest travel will be most comfortable; less-experienced riders should dismount on the steep climbs and select conservative lines on the descent.
Are there water crossings or bridge sections to be aware of?
The route runs near the Davidson River at the beginning and includes a few footbridges and river-adjacent sections. Bridges and roots become slippery when wet—take extra caution in rainy conditions.
Is cell service and bail-out access reliable?
Cell service is inconsistent in Pisgah. Because North Slope starts and ends at the campground, bail-out is relatively straightforward back to roads and parking, but riders should still carry a paper map or offline map, basic repair gear, and an emergency plan.
A compact but characterful Pisgah singletrack that climbs from the Davidson River campground, meets the Art Loeb, then rides a root-and-rock descent back to camp — open to bikes seasonally from October 15 through April 15.