Georgia Mountain Bike Trails

Georgia Mountain Bike Trails really puts your skills to the test and gets you outside into the wildness of nature, whether you’re pedaling on a paved trail or in a municipal bike lane. Although you may make mountain biking as calm or exciting as you wish, there are fantastic trails for riders of all ability levels. Georgia is a fantastic location for mountain biking because of its abundance of parks, forested areas, and varied terrain. Here are some of Georgia’s top locations for mountain riding.

Georgia’s Top Mountain Bike Trails

Mulberry Passage

One of the first basecamps of its kind in the Southeast was in Mulberry Gap. This location, Ellijay, in the north Georgia highlands, is perfect for a weekend vacation. With its bunkhouse and a variety of camping alternatives, this location can serve as your home away from home. You don’t need to carry food because there is a cafeteria on the grounds. A variety of alternatives are available at Mulberry Gap for single riders, groups, and families. You can add as many miles of singletrack with numerous routes diverging through the forest as you like. The 60 miles of trails that can be used to bike through the lovely woodland can be divided up into various distinct routes. Mulberry Gap has shuttle services to take you back to basecamp if you don’t want to expend all of your energy cycling 13.5 miles back to the summit. There are many gravel road choices available for an adventure in the stunning north Georgia highlands if you want to grab a break from all the downhill shredding. Mulberry Gap offers a variety of riders of all experience levels and skill levels, as well as workshops to help you become more skilled and confident on your bike.

Park Southside

One of the best mountain biking experiences you can have in the metro region has been made workable thanks to the hard work of several volunteer groups and government organizations. Since the Atlanta Park System developed and maintained mountain bike routes all throughout the city, the Southside Park project was the first of its sort. It took four years to establish the master plan and start construction on the park, and it will likely take a further 7–13 years to complete the vision. One gravity track in one direction has already been unlocked by them. From novice to expert, the Southside trail system can accommodate all ability levels. You can connect a number of different pathways to make your own choose your own adventure. It is a terrific spot to visit with your family and is accessible to people of all skill levels. The Southern Off-Road Bicycle Association’s (SORBA) website and Twitter feed for the Atlanta Area provides information about workday hours and trail conditions. As the attraction is maintained by the local SORBA, there is also information about volunteering there.

Bull Mountain Trails and Jake

The only Epic trail system in Georgia with IMBA certification is found at Jake and Bull Mountain Trail System. You can ride more than 20 kilometers into the backcountry on rides designated as Epic by the International Mountain Biking Association. These trails are chosen by the general public from a list that must meet strict criteria, making an Epic classification a lofty goal for any trail. This certification’s ability to virtually ensure a good time and a wonderful ride are one of its many outstanding features. Parking at either trailhead enables you to embark on a continuous 100-mile singletrack ride with some of the Southeast’s best descents and most challenging hills. It’s a terrific trail for honing your skills, boosting your self-assurance, or pushing your bike to its physical limits. Bring your friends along while you backpack between mountains. Free camping is available throughout the park; just make sure you sign up at the trailhead.

Park at Cochran Shoals

The ideal location in the Atlanta metropolitan region for novices is Cochran Shoals Park. Depending on the type of ride you’re searching for, this system gives a few distinct possibilities. The trails feature a flat, more than 3-mile walk that follows the Chattahoochee River’s banks. The family should visit Cochran Shoals, especially young children who are still beginning to ride and developing their confidence. The river may be enjoyed during breaks, and parents don’t have to worry about any challenging terrain.

Georgia’s Top Mountain Biking Locations

In the mountain bike community, the West Coast receives all the attention. We’re not here to debate that, given that the mountain bike’s history can be traced back to either Crested Butte, Colorado, or Marin County, California (depending on who you ask). We’re also not here to contest the fact that Moab, Park City, and Sun Valley are home to any of the greatest trails in the nation, if not the entire world. However, you shouldn’t sleep on the East Coast, and you shouldn’t sleep in particular in Georgia’s top mountain bike locations. In fact, when Cannondale gave us the opportunity to test out their newest premium trail bike, the Scalpel SE LTD Lefty, we couldn’t think of a better way to put the new all-carbon down-country machine through its paces than a proper tour of all our favorite places in the Peach State. The mountain biking sites listed below should not be missed, regardless of whether you live in Georgia and are just starting out in the world of mountain biking or are an experienced rider searching for the greatest places to stop on a cross-country bike trip.

Bear Creek and Pinhoti Trail System

The Chattahoochee National Forest, a vast 750,000+ acre tract with some of the most breathtaking views and difficult terrain you’ll find anywhere on the East Coast, is home to the best mountain riding in the state of Georgia. The Pinhoti and Bear Creek trail systems, which are frequently combined into the infamous Bearhoti loop, are widely regarded as Chattahoochee’s crown jewels. This 18-mile romp through some of the most varied and entertaining singletrack this side of the Mississippi is considered to be the Chattahoochee’s crown jewel. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit the Mulberry Gap mountain biking resort while you’re nearby. This family-run mountain biking haven in Georgia is adjacent to the Bears Hoti loop and offers access to more than 150 miles of trails within a 50-mile radius. For riders looking to make a special weekend trip out of their stay in North Georgia, Mulberry Gap also provides everything from food, drink, and housing to shuttles to the trailheads (for those who want to keep their climbs to a minimum).

Trails on Bull Mountain and Jake Mountain

The Jake Mountain and Bull Mountain trail networks are a must-ride mountain bike destination for hardcore fans because they are home to Georgia’s only IMBA EPIC-rated track. the most recent trip to Jake Mountain comprised just about every type of terrain you can think of, including some tough climbs, long lengths of gravel, and a few creek crossings that required some barefoot bike hiking. Although there isn’t much traffic on these well-kept trails, you should be aware that they are all multi-use and bi-directional, so you might come across a few bikers going the other way or even a few horses (we passed two) along the way. The fact that there is lots of parking at the trailheads for both Jake Mountain and Bull Mountain, as well as a ton of options for car camping or hiking just a short hike from each lot, is another reason we adore this Georgia mountain biking destination. Arrive early, ride all day, spend the night, and repeat.

Covert Creek

The fact that you don’t have to travel very far outside of the city to find excellent riding in Georgia is one of its best features. One of our favorite instances is Blanket’s Creek. With only about 15 miles of trails inside the park, Blankets Creek is rather tiny, but what really makes Blankets wonderful is the variety of terrain packed into the little space. There are some great flow trails, downhill singletrack with rippable berms, roller sections, and even a loop of one-way gravity features with an exhilarating jump line along the Quehl Holler route that is perfect for hot laps. It’s pretty much the ideal local trail network for people to squeeze in a lap or two after work during the week, but Blankets is also a worthwhile stop on any Georgia mountain bike tour due to the quality of the trails (which are well-maintained).

Park In Allatoona Creek

Allatoona Creek Park, another small mountain biking haven tucked away just off the beaten road in the city of Acworth, is located about 30 miles northwest of Atlanta. Allatoona’s magnificent 1,450-acre footprint is no slouch, even though it’s nicely tucked between a sizable suburban area and a public dog park, so we use the term small here with objectivity. Over 35 miles of great singletrack trails can be found inside the park; they are all one-directional but alternate every other day of the week to give your runs some diversity. Allatoona receives excellent reviews for its wide variety of terrain and difficulty levels, as well as its incredibly well-maintained trails, much like Blankets Creek. Allatoona holds the well-known All-A-Toona race once a year, which incorporates nearly all of the park’s features, from extensive XC portions to jump lines. The 32-mile All-A-Toona Loop on your preferred mountain bike trail app is a great option if you’re looking for a long day in the saddle and don’t want to wait for the race to enjoy it.

System Of Five Points

The 5-Points trail system, which is close to Georgia’s well-known Cloudland Canyon State Park, is a network of around 20 miles of quick, easy-to-follow singletrack trails with a few challenging and technical portions if you know where to look. The 3.4-mile stretch from the west into the Ascalon Road Trailhead on the Cloudland Canyon Connector, which is likely the most well-known route in 5-Points, is a very enjoyable segment. Although it is totally up to you where you go from there, technically, you could bike these trails all the way into Tennessee if you so choose.

Trails In The North Georgia Mountain Bike Trails You Must Ride

The Appalachian mountain range is extremely concentrated in the North Georgia Mountains, making them fantastic. You certainly leave off strong. I keep going back because it’s possible to cycle in remote areas, find large ridges, and push yourself to the maximum. During our conversation about the terrain, BRO athlete and ardent mountain cyclist Gordon Wadsworth said, In North Georgia, there is so much concentrated riding that leaving seems almost impossible. A beginner to the intermediate path may be found close to Hiawassee on Jackrabbit Mountain. 11.3 miles and 693’ of climb make up the entire distance. It is a singletrack with a 12% incline at most. The Chatuge Lake may be seen beautifully from the route, which is open all year long and well-maintained.

Brooks Creek
Moss Creek is a three-mile intermediate path with some fantastic singletrack. This track is easy and flowing, with an elevation increase of more than 400 feet. Moss Creek features a variety of terrain, including climbs, descents, tight turns, and switchbacks.

Brown Creek
A 10-mile singletrack loop with a 4,700’ elevation increase makes up this intermediate trail. The majority of the Pinhoti trail’s loop may be riding downhill. The path is flowing and fast overall, with a few water crossings. The Gannet Poplar, a massive poplar with a circumference as wide as six adult wingspans, is the focal point of this loop.

Kenneth Mountain
Over time, Jake Mountain has made significant progress. It was once abandoned but has lately undergone renovations and has become popular among riders of all levels. This 600′-gaining, 7-mile singletrack network. The trail is called intermediate because it crosses a deep creek, Jones Creek, and because the climb back out is infamously steep, despite the fact that much of the path is flowing.

Pinhoti Trail: Snake Creek Gap to Armuchee
One of Georgia’s great epics is the Pinhoti trek. The route is fast and flowing and runs from around Ellijay to Alabama, although how technical it is depends on which part you’re riding. This 15-mile portion is classified as an intermediate ride. The out-and-back singletrack trail rises 2,800’ in elevation.

Mountaintown Creek on the Pinhoti Trail
This challenging singletrack course is 5 miles long with a 3,000’ rise and was formerly an old logging road. Mountaintown Creek is a one-way trail with extensive backcountry riding. Riders should anticipate being wet and slightly damaged. But it’s all worth it because of one of North Georgia’s best descents. Keep in mind that there are numerous waterfall vistas along the trail, so keep a lookout as you travel.

West, Georgia Mountain Bike Trails, Are A Must-Ride

I got together with mountain bike trail designer Ethan Quehl to check out the exciting new Mo Flow quarter-mile downhill at Acworth’s Allatoona Creek Mountain Bike Park. This ride, which is rated expert, is loaded with berms, rollers, and jumps. Ethan is eager to point out that Mo Flow is made for everyone, even if it is rated expert. Advanced riders use the characteristics of Mo Flow to gain some air and improve their riding techniques. However, an experienced cyclist can have just as much pleasure leisurely cruising Mo Flow. The West Georgia SORBA (Southern Off-Road Bicycle Association) is a volunteer group that organizes trail work parties and special events, instructs bike patrols for trail emergencies, and maintain Mo Flow and the other Allatoona Creek trails. Volunteers who work on trails meet on Saturdays and receive rewards for their dedication. Check out some of the West Georgia mountain bike trails below to get involved in this wonderful community.

Mason’s Bridge Connector + Rusty Bucket – Allatoona Creek (Beginner): The ideal location for families to experience the thrill of mountain riding is on this 1.5-mile track. When I was last on Rusty Bucket, I saw a young child riding a balancing bike! This straightforward trip aids novice bikers in learning the fundamentals of mountain biking because there are hardly any elevation variations and scaled-back trail features.

Turtleback – Allatoona Creek (Intermediate): This four-mile path flows quickly and is full of steep dumps and quick ascents. The trail makes excellent use of the topography to evenly distribute the elevation change without many difficult technical challenges. Turtleback is a fantastic advancement from the beginning.

Mt. Tabor Park: The stacked loop trail system contains shorter novice loops as well as longer, more difficult routes (basic to intermediate). Rocks of Doom, a 1.7-mile rock garden that leads into the park’s most difficult path, Booger, testing riders, while Pine Pong offers beginners a largely level ride through the pines.
Bill-paying expertise – Clinton Nature Preserve: This short and sweet circuit, a favorite among local professionals, tests motorcyclists at every bend with a log ride and rough terrain. A 109-foot dip is available while going downhill, but going the other way results in one of Clinton’s more challenging climbs.

Allatoona Creek Voodoo (Expert): Voodoo is a three-mile challenging path with a rustic atmosphere that offers challenging log and rock elements, a creek crossing, and fast flow stretches that test experienced riders. At the top of the two-mile Mumbo Jumbo loop is Voodoo.

Whippersnapper – Allatoona Creek (Expert): This brief tune is surrounded by controversy… Does it qualify as a trial if it is long enough? In any case, it’s a local favorite with standout technical characteristics that set it apart from other trails.

Georgia Mountain Bike Trails Near Blue Ridge

Loop Trail at Long Branch
The Long Branch Loop, which is a part of the broader Aska trail network, is one of the simpler rides. Multiple riders can ride together comfortably on the wide, busy trail, which has few challenging obstacles. The trail is also largely hidden by a thick forest canopy, which reduces vistas but does provide some much-needed shade in the summer. Beginners who want to explore the Aska trail area and the Long Branch Valley might check out the Long Branch Loop.

Shortline/Rail Trail at Tallulah Falls
The Tallulah Falls Rail Trail, commonly known as the Shortline Trail, is a quick and enjoyable trail that runs through the breathtaking Tallulah Gorge State Park. The path meanders through the beautiful Appalachian mountains and is paved, making it highly beginning-friendly. For additional scenery, riders will traverse a strong suspension bridge over the Tallulah River.

Trail of Hickey Knob
A beautiful ride down the Hickey Knob Trail will not disappoint cyclists looking for a trail ride with a vista. This easy-to-follow track passes through wide-open meadows bursting with wildflowers and offers panoramic mountain vistas, making it ideal for riders with little mountain riding expertise. The loop is convenient, quick, and dog-friendly.

Trail of Moss Creek
The three-mile-long Moss Creek Trail may be found in Dahlonega, Georgia. It is well recognized for its singletrack that is simple to ride and suitable for both novice and experienced riders. The trail has an elevation increase of more than 400 feet which is easy and flowing. This trail never gets old since it always changes. The track features gradual ascents, exhilarating descents, a few sharp curves and switchbacks, and a ton of scenery.

frequently asked questions regarding Georgia’s mountain bike routes

What mountain bike route is the longest in Georgia?

Georgia Jewel is the state’s longest mountain bike trail, according to AllTrails.com. The estimated length of this trail is 59.7 kilometers, and the average hiking time is 16 hours and 21 minutes.

Which mountain bike route in Georgia gains the highest elevation?

Georgia: Of all the mountain biking trails in the region, Georgia Jewel has the biggest elevation rise (1,713 m). With 1,353 m of elevation gain, Pinhoti Trail: Mulberry Gap to Heddy Creek Campsite is the mountain bike trail with the next-highest ascent.

What is Georgia’s most well-liked and challenging mountain riding route?

With a 4.3-star rating from 309 reviews, Mumbo Jumbo, Voodoo, and Hocus Pocus Loop is Georgia’s most well-liked and challenging mountain biking course.