Atlanta

Rivers, streams, springs, and seeps are never far from any trail, adding to the beauty and the challenge of our trail systems. Did I mention rocks? Atlanta has every kind ranging from battleship-sized outcrops to a litter of shifty shingles sliding ceaselessly beneath your wheels to slithery sand pits. Granite, sandstone, mica, and schist are all there, adding to your bumpy jaunt through the woods. You can traverse sheets of granite, bobble through baby heads, pucker over pebbles, and wash out in a pit of sand if you don't keep your wits about you. Unless, of course you're traversing our endemic red clay, which can be as hard and fast as polished glass, or as gooey and slowing as peanut butter.

From climbs and descents to flow and berms, a mountain bike trip to Atlanta will give you a little bit of everything. The area features both hand-built and machine crafted singletrack.

Most trail systems surround Atlanta on the west, north and east sides of the metro area. Be aware of traffic on weekdays. During EST, working and riding become difficult with the short days, so many trail systems offer night riding.

When the weekend hits, many local riders escape to the mountains. The options within a two-hour drive of Atlanta are impressive, including the Bull and Jake Mountain - IMBA Epic and anything around Mulberry Gap.

It's possible to ride in Atlanta year-round. The freeze-thaw cycle can be an issue during December and January so check conditions before you go out.

Best Eats:

• Sope Creek: Heritage BBQ
• Blankets Creek and Rope Mill: 7 Tequilas, Canyon Burgers, Pure, Taqueria Tsunami, Papa P's, Taste of Italy, Marco's Pizza, Sidelines Grille
• Big Creek MTB Park: Mr. Taco, Pure, Lucky's
• Chicopee Woods: El Sombrero, Eat at Thai