Riverbend Park is a county-owned park on the banks of Lake Hickory. It offers activities such as picnicking, hiking, and of course mountain biking.
The mountain bike trail marked with blue markers is very technical. I would not recommend this trail for the beginner. The trail has very steep, technical downhills followed by heart-pumping climbs. Sections of the trail have some big air potential and some damage potential for the bike and the body. Very scenic sections along the lake side of the park.
The total mileage of the blue trail is 4.5 miles, but more mileage can be added by riding the green trail. This trail is has some of the best singletrack in Catawba County.
From I-40 take Exit 132 "To 16 Conover-Taylorsville". At the top of the exit ramp go north to first intersection (this is a stoplight at Hwy 16). At intersection, turn RIGHT on to HWY 16 North. Go about 7 miles and look for a Dollar General/Exxon on your right(see trail photos). Continue on Hwy16 North about 1/2 a mile and look for a green park sign that says Riverbend Park - the park entrance is on your right. Park in the parking lot and sign in at the bulliten board. Pedal to the "Overflow/Trailhead" parking lot and take a right - Look for the trailhead marked with a blue marker (See trail photos).<br/><br/><br />Park Office Phone: 828-256-9157 or Web for hours (closed on Wednesdays): http://www.catawbacountync.gov/depts/parks/rbndmain.asp
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