Kitsuma is an awesome downhill run - 13 switchbacks up the Continental Divide, and then a screaming (and I mean screaming) run back down for about 4 miles, followed by a return ride back up an abandoned section of US 70. It's one of the top 3 downhills in all of Pisgah Forest. Before we moved here, we'd hammer 4 hours out from Raleigh on Saturday morning, just to get in 2 loops at Kitsuma before driving back home.

For directions, either check with the folks at Epic Cycles in Black Mountain (about 3 miles from the trailhead), or take a look at my book, Mtn Biking North Carolina by Falcon Press.

The trailhead for Kitsuma is just off Exit #66 on I-40. You can explore, or follow someone else through. But directions are helpful if you want to return to your car.

If you need more info on trails in WNC, give me a shout at dirt_addictions@yahoo.com. Be glad to share all the maps and info I have.

Ride it like you stole it!

Timm the Trailrat