Avg Rating:    |
25 trail reviews |
Difficulty:  - Intermediate |
|
| Length: 10 miles | Global Rank: #3478 |
| Tread: Doubletrack | Configuration: Out & Back |
| Ridden: 60 | Wishlist: 37 |
| 0 trail check-ins |
Climb // Descend +1,900 // -1,600 feet |
| Average Speed: 3.4 mph | Average Time: 2hr 53min |
Directions
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Description
Beginners: (Lake Loop 1.1 mi) Intermediate: Gold Mine Loop (6.3 mi), Cool Springs (7 mi) Advanced: East West Loop (14 mi) There are loops for various types of riders, but I have found none of them to be particularly mountain bike friendly. Most of the trails start off downhill and you have to pay for a 1000 feet elevation change at the end. There are nice scenic views of the North Georgia mountains and even creeks and springs. Deer are common and if you're lucky, you won't run into any of the bears. The eleven downhill switchbacks on the Cool Springs Loop are the most exciting thing I've run into on these trails. I know there has got to be better trails around the Chatsworth area though. Overall, the mountain bike trails seemed like good intentions on behalf of the forestry division but the trails are in desperate need of singletrack.
Mt Tabor Park (67%)
Harbins Park (67%)
River Loop (67%)
Raccoon Mountain Trail Network (67%)
To view directions to Fort Mountain State Park mountain bike trail, please login. If you don't have an account, sign up for a free account - it only takes a minute.
Description
Beginners: (Lake Loop 1.1 mi) Intermediate: Gold Mine Loop (6.3 mi), Cool Springs (7 mi) Advanced: East West Loop (14 mi) There are loops for various types of riders, but I have found none of them to be particularly mountain bike friendly. Most of the trails start off downhill and you have to pay for a 1000 feet elevation change at the end. There are nice scenic views of the North Georgia mountains and even creeks and springs. Deer are common and if you're lucky, you won't run into any of the bears. The eleven downhill switchbacks on the Cool Springs Loop are the most exciting thing I've run into on these trails. I know there has got to be better trails around the Chatsworth area though. Overall, the mountain bike trails seemed like good intentions on behalf of the forestry division but the trails are in desperate need of singletrack.
added by mudhunny 
on December 31, 2002
on December 31, 2002Trail Reviews [Add a review]
Review: Its not the sweet singletrack that you would find elsewhere in the North GA mountains, but its still an amazing place to ride thanks to its location.
We made the mistake of taking our cross bikes out there because I heard it wasn't single track, but that was a terrible idea. Its a challenging ride with lots of loose rocks in sections and when these are covered with leaves you can't see them at all.
I definitely recommend this ride because its a nice big 15 mile trail, with a great woods feeling, and its tests your endurance.
We made the mistake of taking our cross bikes out there because I heard it wasn't single track, but that was a terrible idea. Its a challenging ride with lots of loose rocks in sections and when these are covered with leaves you can't see them at all.
I definitely recommend this ride because its a nice big 15 mile trail, with a great woods feeling, and its tests your endurance.
Review: Rode this trail in the mist. Was advised to start out at the parking lot instead of trail head. Great advice bc of the shirt crazy uphill at the beginning but the rest was pretty fun. Bummer it's 3 bucks to ride plus a parking permit
Review: Found these trails in a guidebook and thought it would be an interesting ride and get us off our normal trails. I had read earlier reviews about the state of the trail and thought surely the trails would be repaired by now... nope. Multiple trees down blocking the entire trail, large sections of undergrowth are allowed to grow across the trail making it hard to see anything coming in your path, large parts being virtually unrideable, and terrible trail markings made for an iffy ride. I luckily brought a copy of the trail guide with me which made navigating easier, but on multiple occasions we entered a trail marked approved for mountain biking only to come to the next junction and see a sign prohibiting mountain biking on the trail we had just come from. The parts of the Gold Mine trail we were on were a little better cared for, as well as the hiking trails, but everything else was badly overgrown. I give it 2 stars only because of the potential of the downhill from the overlook on the Cool Springs Trail. Most of it was unrideable which didn't make the climb back up to the start worth it. With so many better options a couple hours outside of Atlanta, I would steer clear of Fort Mountain. Also watch out for the bitch in the main office, fair warning.
* Review edited 7/28/2012
* Review edited 7/28/2012
Review: Not a fun trail at all.. Some places are impossible to ride. Even walking was dangerous going down some rocky hills. we probably ended up walking half the trail.
Review: What a waist... Alot of climbing and alot of rocks! Downhills are way too bumpy to get any real speed...
Review: Rode the Gold Mine Loop on Saturday (March 19, 2011). Recommend (as the girl in the office told us) to start at the parking lot by the lake and do the narly uphill part first while you're fresh! It's a beeeoch of a climb with a lot of loose rock. Ended up having to push the bike part of the way! After that section its a lot of nice downhill and the rest of the climbs aren't too bad. A couple of pretty technical descents that will have you sitting on your back tire. Two really nice views on this loop to reward you. No other riders were spotted either on the trail or in the parking lots... surprised!
Note: There were several trees down on the trail forcing us to stop and carry the bikes over/under so use caution.
* Review edited 3/21/2011
* Review edited 3/21/2011
Review: Just rode Trail 301, which is the main loop. It is 14.2 miles, I had to cut it short at checkpoint 4 and hike up the switch back section trail 302 back to the central bike parking lot/area.
This trail is one of my favorites in Georgia, its wide I grant, but why I like this trail is the legacy it has in it. The old double track are logging / gold mining roads from the 20's. There are old abandoned mines litters all over the place, and while it sounds putrid, there is old machinery littered all over, such as an old desiel hand crank engine, an old donkey track belt driven engine for pulling mine cars. It really is cool.
Like the Goos said, bring your lungs and a lunch, its nice to eat lunch by one of the three massive overlook sections.
The main downhill section if you are going clockwise runs down a powerline row and it is awesome, technical and scary at sections.
Updatefor Parking Fees are now $5
Trail permit is $2.
Worth twice as much :)
* Review edited 10/30/2010
* Review edited 10/30/2010
Review: I rode the East West trail and while it wasn't singletrack, it was some of the most challenging Doubletrack I have ever ridden. VERY technical for the majority of the trail. Bring you lungs for this ride as it will certainly work you over the last three miles; all uphill with a nasty switchback section that would even put it to a full blown racer. Don't let the intermediate difficulty rating fool you, this place is NOT for beginners or even the majority of intermediate riders.
If I had to rate this place on trail quality alone, I'd only give it 4 of 5 stars but this is hands-down the most scenic trail I have ridden in GA. that easily makes up for the few issues you will run into reqarding the trail making it a 5 of 5 for me. It always recharges my batteries to go out into places that are still true wilderness and this is one of those few places left on the East Coast. Great views from plenty of overlooks. Interesting old ruins. Great places to camp and hike. I'm sure there was a lot of luck involved but in one trip I saw a family of 10 turkeys, 4 hawks, countless deer, and a bear.
If you are ready for a challenge and want to get out in the wild. This is your trail.
* Review edited 9/22/2010
Similar Trail: Stanley Gap for the aerobic challenge Snake Creek section of Pinhoti for technical challenge
* Review edited 9/22/2010
Similar Trail: Stanley Gap for the aerobic challenge Snake Creek section of Pinhoti for technical challenge
Review: All the reviews are spot on
Rode the trails last weekend was as everyone said but lots of down trees with no option to navigate them (anything over 2 feet or so i cant j- hop)
But there were a few i had a blasted soaring over on the downhills
Similar Trail: Bull Mountain For more single track fun
Similar Trail: Bull Mountain For more single track fun
Review: If you are looking for a challange this is the trail for you! The trail is very rocky and technical on the decents and the ascents. This trail pretty much goes down the mountain and then goes back up. The down hill is fast and rocky, and the climb is rocky and steep but towards the top it smooths out but it is still pretty steep. You will come across a nice waterfall at the midpoint of the climb witch is rewarding. I wouldn't recomend doing this trail after it has been raining because it just makes it near imposible to get traction while climbing over those mean rocks. Have Fun!!!
Review: Trek sums it all up in his review! This is a great place to ride, especially if you want some technical challenge and some gnarly DH runs. Beautiful scenery!
Review: Most of the reviews here are right on. The trails are tough but not just because of the elevation changes. Expect to find loose and rocky trail conditions all the way around the East-West loop and sections of overgrown trail. These trails are mostly wide singletrack and doubletrack and you probably won't see anyone else out here even on a Saturday.
The official state park website says to plan on 4-8 hours to complete the entire East-West loop but I'd say that's a bit of an overestimate (it took me just under 3 hours). The East-West loop is not recommended for beginning riders. $2 fee for mountain bike trail permit at the park office in addition to the $3 state park vehicle pass.
Similar Trail: Bull Mountain, though BM has more singletrack and easier climbs.
Similar Trail: Bull Mountain, though BM has more singletrack and easier climbs.
Review: This place is awesome. Make sure you bring extra parts because if something breaks, you will have a really long walk, I speak from experience! Bring alot of water. The downhills here are top notch. There is one underneath the power lines that is a mile long or so. This place needs to be on your list.
Similar Trail: Tsali, but rougher.
Similar Trail: Tsali, but rougher.
Review: What a beautiful park! And what a beautiful drive up U.S. 52 between Ellijay and Chatsworth. Had the park to myself. I rode a trail and 1/2 which was about 7 miles. From the trailhead I rode trail 301 downhill then trail 303 uphill. You definitely need lungs and horses but if you want a good taste of riding this place without taking up your whole day and all your energy this is a good route to take. The park charges $5. $3 for your car and $2 for your bike. It's worth it! You get a gorgeous view, ridiculous downhill that's not too technical, and just enough climbing to put your lungs to the test. Try this in the morning, lunch in Ellijay, then head east of Ellijay and ride Rich Mountain/Cartecay tract.
Review: I first rode this trail after 6 months of pretty intense 60 + mile weeks. I though I was ready. I was wrong. THis trail is not for the week of heart. excuse me for not having specific route information. I have only ridden this trail once. I am not sure the exact route that we took but it was around 14 or 15 miles total. At first this ride is a series of uphills with a small reward of screaming downhill after each climb. When we got to the powerlines we started a section of down hill that to some riders need to walk. It is about an `1800 Ft elevation drop in about 1.5 miles. It is sick 2 riders with us spilled. after the White knuckle trip down the MT. we started the Climb after a little ways we came to a waterfall after a fairly exhausting climb. REST HERE you will need it becasue the next three miles will be the longest and steeping uphill section only few trails can boast. Overall this is a good trail if you have an entire afternoon available to drive there and ride. But bring your lungs and I woul dnot recommend this trail for a beginner.
As for me i will try this trail agaiin soon. I will have a lot better idea what to expect and know to take it easy for the beginning and save for the end
Happy Trails to You
Similar Trail: Bear Creek, Mountaintown Creek, Bull Mountain, Chicopee woods
Similar Trail: Bear Creek, Mountaintown Creek, Bull Mountain, Chicopee woods
Review: Not bad though some trail maintainance would be nice, lots of climbing but there's great rewards too, i.e. views. Bring a friend for safrty because I don't hink the trails are riden too much, I go there all the time and I've seen no other bikers. Tip: on the lake loop, watch out for inexperienced hikers. I have had several close calls with them and their dogs.
Review: Moderate to strenuous uphills, fast downhills that are slowed by switchbacks. Four-wheeler sized trail. Forget about it when it rains. There is also a 14m loop but bring food, very strenuous. Don't forget to check in at Ranger post.
Review: Cool Springs Loop #302 is in need of trail matainence: a lot of over brush - especially of the poisionous plant varieties.
Similar Trail: Fort Mtn Lake Loop(easy),Gold Mind Loop(beginner), and East-West Loop(advanced).
Similar Trail: Fort Mtn Lake Loop(easy),Gold Mind Loop(beginner), and East-West Loop(advanced).
Review: The east west loop is a must do if you are in this area. I originally rode this when it was brand new, and it was not quite groomed. I have been back twice since, and the people up there have done an incredible job. But be warned, this trail will test you, and is not for the begginer. One of my favorite trails anywhere. The downhills are tricky and a real blast. Bring agood set of lungs for the climbs.
Similar Trail: Windy Gap
Similar Trail: Windy Gap
Review: Alot of climbing. The trail was fun and challanging. The downhill was crazy! Make sure you bring extra tubes. You may need then.
Similar Trail: Bull Mtn
Similar Trail: Bull Mtn
Review: The trails at Fort Mountain are quintessentially North Georgia. Streams, views, wildlife, and yes...climbing (part of the sport!) True mountain biking at its best! Beginners and intermeds should keep to the Gold Mine loop, East/West loop will punish you. Park mgt is pro mtn biking! Support their efforts. They've even built bike washes!
Similar Trail: Iron mountain, Red & White Loop with River loop, Flat Creek in Blue Ridge.
Similar Trail: Iron mountain, Red & White Loop with River loop, Flat Creek in Blue Ridge.
Review: I thought the trail was pretty cool!! The back side had a knarly downhill, but THE CHUMPMAN rode it!!!
Similar Trail: Bull Mtn.
Similar Trail: Bull Mtn.
Review: Tip: instead of parking in the bike parking lot, park near the campgrounds by the park. That way you don't have to do that final ascent after riding the rest of the loop.
Review: I spend an hour and half in the car for the climbing (there isn't any climbing like this around Atlanta). The Nasty Secret: The bicycle parking area is the second highest point in the park... what goes down must come up! On the East/West Trail there are a few climbs that require just putting your head down and grinding... you'll get there eventually but it's best not to look. I typically ride this trail alone but I shouldn't. I rarely see any other riders and most of this trail seems very remote (it is). The downhill on the south end is dangerous (it takes alot to get me to walk my bike down hill)... it might be wishful thinking to count on passing riders to help you and your broken collar bone back to civilization. The upside to this remoteness is the views. I don't typically stop long enough to smell the roses when I ride but there are some heart stopping views here. There are gorgeous mountain streams and old gold mines that are pretty cool too. Bring your legs, your lungs, your camera and plenty of water.
Similar Trail: Unicoi State Park, GA/Fontana Village, NC
Similar Trail: Unicoi State Park, GA/Fontana Village, NC
Recommendations
Blankets Creek Bicycle Trail (100%)Mt Tabor Park (67%)
Harbins Park (67%)
River Loop (67%)
Raccoon Mountain Trail Network (67%)
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We made the mistake of taking our cross bikes out there because I heard it wasn't single track, but that was a terrible idea. Its a challenging ride with lots of loose rocks in sections and when these are covered with leaves you can't see them at all.
I definitely recommend this ride because its a nice big 15 mile trail, with a great woods feeling, and its tests your endurance.