Biking the Backroads: North Georgia’s Scenic Cycling Escapes
With practically year-round weather to enjoy the great outdoors - it is no surprise that Clarkesville has much to offer the cycling crowds. Whether you're a seasoned cyclist or a beginner looking for a leisurely ride, Clarkesville and its surrounding areas have options to explore.
Frank Flores @unsplash
Road Cycling Routes
For road cyclists, Clarkesville offers several routes with varying lengths and difficulty levels. One of the popular routes is the "Relaxed Monday Route in Clarkesville," a 32 km ride perfect for a leisurely start to the week. If you're up for a longer ride, the "Lengthy Thursday Ride in Clarkesville" offers a 28 km route to explore. BikeMap.net is an excellent resource for all types of bike routes.
Mountain Biking Trails
Mountain bikers will find some trails fairly close to Clarkesville. The Lake Russell Loop in nearby Cornelia is a 5-mile intermediate trail that offers a blend of challenge and scenic beauty. The Moccasin Creek State Park, nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, offers a variety of trails for different skill levels[5].
Photo source:https://www.singletracks.com
For those seeking a more radically adventurous ride, there are 13 mountain bike trails near Clarkesville listed on Free Arenas. These include High Point, Yotee's Run, and Sneaking Creek, each offering unique terrain and stunning views! To be clear, “near” is debatable as some of these are over an hours drive away. The best trails are found a bit farther north, where the terrain offers a bit more challenge.
Cycling Events
If you are up for the “big ride,” The Bicycle Ride Across Georgia (BRAG) is a seven-day statewide cycling event that includes an overnight stop in Clarkesville. This event sees around 2,500 riders averaging about 55 miles per day, making it a significant event in the Georgia cycling calendar. Riders come back and participate year after year at all levels of training.
Bike Rentals
If you don't have your own bike and are looking to rent one - we recommend heading to Helen, GA where several outfitters have bikes for rent or to rent one from REI in the Atlanta area before heading to the area.
So, grab your helmet, pump up those tires, and get ready to pedal through some of the most beautiful landscapes Georgia has to offer. Happy cycling!
