Bull Mountain Epic
Dahlonega, Georgia
Located at the southern terminus of the Appalachian Trail, the Bull Mountain trail network includes more than 50 miles of great riding. The IMBA Epic route covers about 30 miles - nearly all of it singletrack. The trails include a little bit of everything - red clay singletrack, loose rocks, a few stream crossings, and some steep, sustained climbs. This is a multi-use trail system and you can expect to meet horses, especially on weekends.
Update: In partnership with SORBA and local equestrian orgaizations, the USFS completed the first major rerouting and maintenance project on this trail system in 2011. The new upgrades make for a flowly and fast experience on the Jake Mountain trail, Mossy Creek, and Black Branch trails within the Bill Mounatin system.
Location: Bull Mountain is located in north Georgia about 12 miles from Dahlonega (locals pronounce it dah-LAHN-ah-gah).
Epic Ride Length: Approximately 30 miles
Climbing: 3,000 feet
Elevation Range: 1,200 - 1,800 feet
Terrain: Singletrack trails on a mix of hard packed clay and loose rock with stream crossings and some ridgeline riding.
Map: http://www.mindspring.com/~keithmc/rides/maps/bulljake3.pdf
Season: Nearly year round, occasional closures in winter due to snow or heavy rain. Hint: the combination of red clay and rain does not equal good mountain biking. Trust us.
Details: "Off the Beaten Track, Volume Three," by Jim Parham and "Biking Georgia," by Alex Nutt.
IMBA Region: Southern Off-Road Bicycling Association (SORBA), http://www.sorba.org
Shop: Cartecay River Bicycle Shop, 123 North Main St, Ellijay, 706-635-2453, http://www.cartecaybikes.com
Camping: Etowah River Campground in Dahlonega
Lodging: Dahlonega has everything from cheap rooms to bed and breakfasts, http://www.dahlonega.org/index.php/where-to-stay.html
Travel & Tourism Association: Dahlonega/Lumkin Chamber of Commerce, http://www.dahlonega.org
Brew: Caruso's, a.k.a Curly's for post-ride pizza and a beer in Dahlonega.
More: Southern-style sweet tea at almost any place in town - iced, of course.
