10 September, 2026
Pisgah Magic
Pisgah is more than a trail network. It is a living forest shaped by logging, conservation, weather and generations of people who have kept its paths open.
Many of the trails ridden today began as logging roads, mule tracks and rail beds. They were inherited from those who came before and gradually became part of one of North America’s most distinctive mountain bike communities.
When the forest changed
In September 2024, Hurricane Helene devastated Western North Carolina. Homes, businesses and lives were lost, while roads and hundreds of miles of trails were damaged across the region.
For the local community, reopening the trails became one small but meaningful part of the recovery.
On Bennett Gap, that work continues. Trail crews, volunteers and organisations such as Pisgah Area SORBA are rebuilding damaged sections while preparing the network for the future.
Beyond Pisgah
Pisgah is only one part of Western North Carolina’s diverse riding scene. Nearby destinations such as Kanuga Bike Park complement its natural backcountry trails with purpose-built lines and e-bike access, offering even more ways to explore the region on two wheels.
Rise LT
Nearby, the Rise LT takes on the purpose-built trails of Kanuga Bike Park. Its natural handling and added assistance open up more runs, more exploration and a different way to experience Western North Carolina.
The magic remains
The storm changed Pisgah, but it did not define it. Its identity lives in the people rebuilding trails, the riders moving beneath the canopy and the community gathering after every ride.
That connection between the forest and those who care for it is what locals call Pisgah Magic.
Occam LT
Walker rides the Occam LT through Pisgah’s steep, natural and technical terrain, a landscape that rewards control, confidence and adaptability.
TRAILHEADS
Stacey Wiedrich
| Stacey Wiedrich works to connect the people of Pisgah with the trails they love. |
| Through her role at Pisgah Area SORBA, she helps strengthen the community around the forest and give visibility to the work required to protect its trails. For Stacey, this connection is at the heart of Pisgah Magic. |
Walker Shaw
| Walker Shaw is a talented rider with a deep appreciation for natural, technical trails. |
| Riding Occam LT and Rise LT, he moves confidently through Pisgah’s roots, rocks and steep terrain, revealing the character that makes this forest such a distinctive place to ride. |
This project was made possible by Orbea Foundation
Orbea Foundation takes a new step towards driving projects, strengthening partnerships and contributing to a more sustainable, inclusive and fair future.