Review
Intro
Anne Close Springs is not a typically greenway. Instead of a wide, flat path suitable for smooth tires and upright biking, ACSG is actually a series of multi-purpose, natural surface trail. The three mountain biking loops combine for a total of nearly eight miles. They flow well with a few elevations changes and rooty spots that prevent an all out speed-fest. Looping around a few ponds and spending time along the banks of scenic Steel Creek, the ASCG trails offer a pretty locale for a great ride.
What Makes It Great
One of the most interesting members of the Springs family, whose ties to South Carolina go back to the Revolutionary War, is Anne Close Springs. Among her many attributes, she is an ardent supporter of outdoor activity (she climbed Kilimanjaro three times, most recently at the age of 78). In 1995 her eight children opened the 2,100 acre Greenway in recognition of this dedication.
There are some 40 miles of trail within the properties boundaries. While some are set aside for equestrian and foot only paths, three loops are designed specifically with the mountain biker in mind. The School, Prairie, and Sugar loops combine for roughly 8 miles of moderately difficult biking.
The most notable characteristic of the single track trails at ASCG are the roots. Large, exposed sections of roots provide the challenge here, given the lack of serious elevation changes or man-made features. When roots aren’t present, however, the trail flows really well.
The historic and scenic grounds of Anne Springs Close Greenway are a very pleasant place to escape city traffic and spend a couple hours in the woods. Just 30 minutes south of Charlotte, these trails are sometimes forgotten and can be wide open, especially in the morning.
Who is Going to Love It
There aren’t many spots along the trail that a beginner biker can’t handle. However, its bumpy nature can make for a difficult run for a brand new biker. ASCG is a great place for anyone with even a little bit of experience to practice new skills and get some great mileage in. Although it’s only 30 minutes from Charlotte, its location in South Carolina causes many bikers to overlook it as a regular stop. So experience riders visit as an escape from busier Charlotte trails.
Directions, Parking, & Regulations
The biking trails are mostly located in the south part of the park and are accessed near the softball fields in the back of the parking lot off of Tom Hall Street.
The ASC Greenway is supported by donation and use fees since it’s not a government run park To ride the trails here you either need to be a member or pay the $5 fee (cash or check).. The trails can get confusing but trail maps are normally provided at the trail head kiosk near the pay station.
