Charlotte Trounce finds freedom on two wheels while exploring rural North Carolina trails. Growing up in western North Carolina on the Qualla Boundary, also known as the Cherokee Indian Reservation, was reminiscent of life in any small mountain town. Embracing every season, from harvesting ramps in spring to sledding in winter, provided cherished memories. Charlotte’s introduction to mountain biking came later in life, motivated by personal challenges and a desire for a new sport. Despite initial fears, she found solace and joy in the sport, relishing the freedom it offered away from societal roles. Fire Mountain Trails in Cherokee became her favorite spot, where she enjoyed night rides and encounters with nature. Local bike shops and friendly colleagues helped her embrace the biking community, highlighting the camaraderie and support found on the trails.
One of the wonderful aspects of these trails is their perfect balance of safety and sociability. They provide a secure environment for solo rides while also offering the chance to meet friends along the way. While I enjoy my cycling adventures with friends or on my own, the rides that hold the most value for me are those shared with my two sons: 12-year-old Charlie and 16-year-old Ross. As they tackle challenging terrain, my heart races with worry. Yet, their exhilarated shouts as they catch air fills me with nostalgia for the freedom I experienced when I first rode a mountain bike. Hearing my son exclaim, “This is amazing, Mom!” is perhaps the greatest reward these trails offer.
Mountain biking is not as intimidating as I once believed. It is, however, an extreme experience – one that brings extreme joy and a sense of living life to the fullest. There is a thrill in hurtling down a slope, momentarily losing control, brushing off the dust, and pushing forward. An earlier version of this account was featured in the June 2025 edition of Travel + Leisure magazine with the title “Ride Like the Wind.” You can find the original article on the Travel & Leisure website.
