Mountain Biking in Big South Fork

The basic out-and-back (three miles one way, six miles total) on double-track of packed sandstone leads to an overlook above North White Oak Creek. Most experienced riders will take the sand and mud bogs in stride, although a novice biker may feel daunted at times. The ride, however, is worth it to whoever wants a great peek at the Cumberland Plateau. At the overlook, Coyle Branch can be seen and heard dropping into the North White Oak below. The knoll in front of the overlook hides most of Logging Hollow, with its twin branches. On the other side of the North White Oak, Panther Creek (panther included, so they say) drains the north face of Hurricane Ridge, the huge rock mountain to the southeast.

Finding the trail: Leave Oneida on TN 297, headed west. About 10 minutes out of town, TN 297 turns left at Terry and Terry Store where a forest servicebrown sign points the way to Big South Fork. Travel several slow, switchbacking miles on the descent into the river canyon and on the climb back out. Once back on top, continue straight past the right turn to Bandy Creek Campground. Three miles from the turnoff to Bandy Creek, turn left onto Blevins Road; it is probably unsigned. Soon after you turn onto Blevins Road, the West Entrance Trail comes in on the right. Before going down the first steeper section, North White Oak Loop crosses the double-track. Park near where the pavement ends.

Notes on the trail: The first 2 miles of this trail are easy. Then, however, a descent into a creek bottom and the following climb combine for a somewhat demanding section. The final descent to the overlook loses 60 feet in its half-mile approach. For those who want to extend this ride and make it a physical workout, take the portion of North White Oak Trail leaving Blevins Road on the right (south), just before Blevins begins a steep descent. Be prepared for at least three additional creek crossings on this 2-mile section. Each crossing comes with its own drop into and climb out of a steep draw. Finally, take a right onto Blevins at the bottom of the hill, just before crossing another creek. Return the way you came.

View: Trail Map