Tsali Recreation Area

Just minutes from NOC is Tsali Recreation Area, regarded as the Southeast's mountain biking mecca. This system of four trailts totals 42 miles on a peninsula on Fontana Lake. It is close to where the Tuckaseegee River used to merge with the Little Tennessee River, now submerged beneath the lake's waters. Riders can expect to see tight curves, hilly passes and views of the lake while pedaling through.

Trails

Open to mountain bikers Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Sunday
Right Loop - 11 miles
Left Loop - 11.9 miles

Open to mountain bikers Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday
Thompson Loop - 7.7 miles
Mouse Branch Loop - 9 miles

Forest Service management alternates trail days between mountain biking and horseback riding to minimize risk for all visitors.

In addition to a system of four maintained trails, Tsali also features a campground, boat launch for Fontana Lake, restroom facilities and even a bike wash. Tsali Recreation Area is maintained by the USDA National Forest Service, Cheoah Ranger District. Stop in NOC's Bike Shop for printed information on Tsali.