George Poston Park - Mountain Biking

The trail system at George Poston Park has one of the more interesting layouts in the Charlotte area. The system is comprised of a series of interconnecting loop trails which get progressively more difficult. Beginning with the Lake Loop, a generally easy trail with some tight turns, and continuing through to the challenging Spencer Mountain Loop, with its gaps and ledges, George Poston holds a variety of difficulty.

What Makes It Great

The tight turns, hill climbs, and bumpy sections of single track at George Poston Park seem to make some of the best use of local topography. Undulating along the small lake, the Lake Loop twists and turns it’s way up and down the banks. Even though it’s the most forgiving in the park, the Lake Loop still has a few tricks up its sleeve.

The next in the series of loops is Laurel Hill. Short gains and losses of elevation are punctuated with plenty of rocks. The Laurel Loop is reserved enough for a rider with a few trips under their belt but probably not for the rank beginner.

The third and fourth link in the loop chain are Big Leaf and Soccer Loops. This section of trail is mostly an uphill (on the way out) run up to the Spencer Mountain Loop. Not as twisty or as rocky, these sections lies in the climb. Luckily, what goes up also comes down. The flowy downhill return run on each loop are some of the most fun sections in the park.

The Spencer Mountain loop is the finale in the park. Some down and uphill culminates in a choice of a several foot ledge or a super-fast downhill and wide ledge jump. Spencer Mountain is, obviously, not for the first time rider. You can basically return via the backside of each loop, adding multiple runs for additional distance.

Who is Going to Love It

First time riders are better off at the Green Loop of the U.S. National Whitewater Center. But the advanced beginners can tackle the first two link loops at Poston. The real winners at Poston are experienced riders who love a great variety. With some technical features, excellent hill climbs, and swooping downhills, Poston challenges Charlottes best riders.

Directions, Parking, & Regulations

The suggested parking area, and the one that leads to the Lake Loop, as near the entrance to the park at Shelter 1. Helmets are always important but even more so at Poston. Since runners also use these trails, it's important to be mindful of typical trail etiquette – announce your approach and give way to faster movers.

This content was originally published on RootsRated.com.