Mountain bikers of all levels flock to Rabun County too for its challenging array of trails. Single track, double track, and forest roads combine to create numerous trail options. A few local favorites include:
- White Twister: This 4.5 mile moderately difficult loop is located in the Stonewall Falls mountain bike area. The White Twister winds through the mountains and alongside Stonewall Creek, and boasts a few challenging climbs. The trail has been nicknamed "the roller coaster trail" due to the numerous rolling areas. It travels through Fern Valley and along Root Ridge before connecting to the old railroad bed. The trail runs 1/2 mile in the old railroad bed and back to the beginning. For a more challenging ride, do it backwards. Directions to the White Twister are the same as Stonewall
- Stonewall Falls: The Stonewall Falls Trail now offers more challenges and greater distance than before. The trail is now considered by bikers as a true mountain bike trail and mountain bikers appreciate its challenge and the enjoyment it provides. In 2007 we completed nearly 7.5 miles of new single-track (Total Distance = 11 Mile Loop), which results in the best mountain biking has to offer in northeast Georgia. By design, it is not the easiest trail in the area, but it is considered to be what a "true mountain bike trail should be". At mileage 3.4 miles there is an optional exit to allow bikers to exit and return to the parking lot via the power line access road, rather than continue on the trail. There are optional routes along the trail with different difficulty levels. There is a good possibility of seeing wildlife in this area. Wildlife ranges from squirrels, grouse, deer, bobcats, and even wild bear.
- High Bluff and Stoneplace Trails at Tallulah Gorge: Located at Tallulah Gorge State Park, this moderately difficult out-and-back trail system has a 2 mile moderately technical section of trail called the High Bluff trail. It terminates into older road beds which become the Stoneplace trail and descends to the Stoneplace boat ramp on Lake Tugalo. Once you get to the boat ramp, the ride back is all ascending. Lake Tugalo is a primitive lake formed by the Chattooga and Tallulah rivers.
Directions:
White Twister and the Stonewall Falls biking loops are located approximately 2 miles south of Tiger on Hwy 441 South. Turn onto USFS road #20 at the beige metal building and go 1-1/4 mile on the gravel road. Turn right at the intersection, go 50 yards and park in the parking area. The Stonewall Falls loop starts by continuing past the parking lot and following the signs. The White Twister starts approximately 40 yards prior to the last turn for the parking area (on your left as you are driving in).
High Bluff and Stoneplace trails. This trail system starts at the Interpretive Center in the Tallulah Gorge State Park. The Interpretive Center is approximately 12 miles south of Clayton on Hwy 441. The Interpretive Center is 1/2 mile from Hwy 441 on the left side of Hwy 441 when you are traveling south. A parking permit is required.
For more information on local riding routes and trails, call or visit the welcome center, or contact the SORBA Northeast Georgia chapter at
nesorba@sorba.org.
