Some say Tsali is the best riding east of the Mississippi, and it would be hard to argue. There are 4 loops, with nearly 40 miles of trails. 2 loops will be open to mountain biking each day, alternating with horseback riders, so plan a trip for at least 2 days and ride all the trails.
Mouse Branch is approx 10 miles, Thompson is 7 miles, Right and Left loops are roughly 11 miles each.
Almond, NC – From Charlotte, Take 85 south to Hwy 74 Kings Mountain exit. From Hwy 74W, follow the signs to I-26W, and from I-26W, get on I-40W. From I-40W, you will jump back on to Hwy 74W. You will stay on Hwy 74W for quite a while before you come to 28N just past Bryson City. 28N joins 74W for a small stretch, and then splits off to the right. Tsali is just a few miles up 28N on the right. The sign is very small and on the left side of the road. Once you pass Turkey Creek Campground, you will go approx 4-5 miles and you will see the small green sign for Tsali Rec Area….turn right onto the gravel road and it will take you to the parking lot, lake or campground.
Cost is 2.00 per day. 2 trails alternate each day between bikers and equestrians, so check the schedule board to make sure you are riding the appropriate trails for that day.
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