Mountain Bike Trail - Unicoi State Park in Georgia

Mountain Bikers in Georgia may already be aware of the state park run program, Muddy Spokes. If not, Muddy Spokes is a program allows mountain bikers to complete a series of rides, which helps them get their cards punched to eventually earn a t-shirt for their efforts. These rides consistent of 11 trails in 11 different state parks. One of the most difficult rides on the list is the mountain bike trail at Unicoi State Park.

Consisting of a 7 mile loop, this trail will require the skills of experienced riders. Although much of the trail is built along an old roadbed, the wide track doesn't make the ride any easier.

From the parking area, riders cross a grassy meadow before reaching the trail head. Almost immediately, the trail requires a steep, technically difficult ascent. From there, the trail winds up and down with long stretches of ascents, followed by fast-paced descents. Riders will find these descents exhilarating , with a mixture of leaf-covered slick rides, and boulder covered bumpy rides.

The mountain bike trail was designed as a NORBA racing course and has been used for a number of mountain biking racing events. In many areas the trail is a real challenge, but some areas provide a little bit of a break. In these sections, you can enjoy the scenery as you follow the creek and take in some of the views at a few higher elevation portions of the trail.

Once you complete the ride, be sure to drive up to the lodge, and get your Muddy Spokes card punched for completing the ride. For more information on hiking and biking trails in Georgia, check out SouthernHiker.com.