Author: Shop Crew
Sherman Branch is ~11 miles of fast, flowy singletrack with berms, small jumps, rock gardens, and wood features—built to keep speed without big climbs.
The Basics (Because You're Here for Intel)
Sherman Branch is roughly 11 miles of singletrack with berms, jumps, rock gardens, and wooden features.
Built in 2006 by Tarheel Trailblazers, and maintained by volunteers.
Elevation gain is about 600 feet, with mostly gradual climbs and frequent short descents.
The Rollercoaster Effect (It's Real)
Sherman Branch rides like a long pump track.
Short climbs, quick drops, and berms that carry speed.
Most of the loop is steady rhythm—accelerate out of corners, pump rollers, and keep moving.
One-Way Traffic (Check Before You Drop In!)
Here's the thing about Sherman Branch: it's a clockwise one-way loop. This means everyone's flowing in the same direction, which makes for safer, faster, and WAY more fun riding.
BUT (and this is important), always check the signs at the trailhead for the direction of the day. Some trail systems rotate direction depending on maintenance schedules or events, so don't be that person flying the wrong way into a group ride.
Start at the main kiosk and follow the arrows. The trail crosses an emergency access road several times, which is actually clutch if you need to bail early or someone flatted and needs a quick exit.
What You're Getting Into
Sherman Branch packs a lot into a short loop:
Berms for Days: High-banked corners that let you practice leaning into turns and carrying momentum. If you've been wanting to work on cornering technique, this is your classroom.
Rock Gardens: Not gnarly enough to terrify beginners, but technical enough to keep intermediates honest. Pick your line and commit!
Wooden Features: Bridges, log jumps, and elevated sections add variety and challenge. Most have ride-arounds if you're not feeling it.
Rooty Sections: Because this IS North Carolina, after all. Keeps you alert and your bike handling sharp.
Man-Made Jumps: Small to medium tabletops and lips scattered throughout. Hit them or roll them, your choice!
Most features are optional, with ride-arounds in many spots.
Who Should Ride Sherman Branch?
Most riders with a mountain bike will have a good time here.
Beginners: You'll be fine here, especially if you're comfortable on your bike and ready to level up. The flow is forgiving, the technical stuff is mostly optional, and you can walk anything that feels sketchy. Weekend mornings might be crowded with families and dogs, so plan accordingly.
Intermediate Riders: This is YOUR trail. Sherman Branch hits that sweet spot where you can push your speed and work on technique without feeling like you're in over your head. Perfect for building confidence and endurance.
Advanced Riders: You'll have a blast ripping through at speed, hitting every feature, and treating the whole thing like a pump track. Bring your XC race bike and see how fast you can lap it!
Cross-country and trail bikes are ideal here. Full suspension works great, and a capable hardtail works well too.
If you’re shopping, we’ve got a big selection of trail and XC bikes at Spirited Cyclist.
Pro Tips from the Shop Crew
Bring Water: 11 miles of constant pumping and pedaling adds up. Bring at least one bottle (two if it’s warm).
Check Your Suspension: If you’re bottoming out or getting bounced around, a quick setup check helps. If you want, swing by the shop and we’ll help dial it in.
Tire Pressure Matters: Don't run road-bike PSI on this trail. You want enough squish to handle roots and rocks but enough support for the berms. Sweet spot is usually 25-30 PSI for most riders, but your weight and tire width will vary that.
Weekday Mornings Are Quieter: Weekends can get crowded with hikers, dogs, and group rides.
Session the Features: Don't feel pressure to complete the whole loop in one go. Find a section you love and ride it multiple times. That's how skills get built!
The Cardio Reality
Sherman Branch is smoother than it looks, but it’s still work.
Constant pumping, repeated accelerations, and short bursts to clear features add up.
Bring water and a snack if you tend to bonk.
Get Your Ride Dialed Before You Go
Sherman Branch is more fun on a well-sorted bike—especially suspension, brakes, and tires.
When’s the last time your fork was serviced? Brakes consistent? Shifting clean?
Swing by Spirited Cyclist for a quick once-over or a service appointment. We can check suspension setup, brake pads, and drivetrain tuning before you ride.
Ready to Ride
Sherman Branch is a solid loop for flow, cornering practice, and steady pace.
Pack water, do a quick bike check, and follow the posted direction.
Need service, parts, or setup help before you go? Stop by Spirited Cyclist and we’ll get you trail-ready.