Everyone Has "That Trail"

Image by Laurie

You already know which trail I am talking about because every rider in every trail ridden area of the world has at least one. The weather is poised to be perfect over the weekend. Your local forum is buzzing with suggestions on where to ride and take advantage of everything the great outdoors has to offer. Several riders throw up suggestions and nothing seems to really stick. The conversation starts with around 30 eagar riders all waiting in anticipation of the RTR spot. Then it happens…

One of your favorite riding buddies suggests…that trail. All of the sudden you have 1/2 of the excited group bailing and the other half are gearing up for the pain as they prepare for the inevitable sufferfest that is “that trail”. 

That trail for us north Georgia residents is Rich Mountain. Rich consists of Stanley Gap, Flat Creek, Lake Blueridge and Green Mountain. This 20+ miles of mountain biking heaven is about 20 minutes north of Ellijay, GA and once you are done…it feels like you actually rode over 50.

Littered with super technical climbs, this out and back route delivers the same amount of excitement coming down, but you pay for it…over and over again. Even the best riders come to Rich Mountain expecting to walk some. That last climb back over Stanley Gap is pure survival mode as you try to save at least a little bit in the tank for that last incredible, several mile downhill to the car. 

So…what makes it that trail?

Like I mentioned before, every area has a trail like Rich. It is that trail that half of your riding group grimmeses at the thought of riding it and the other half gets an evil grin hoping that this is the ride that they conquer the beast. That trail tests your endurance, heart and technical ability all in one ride. Some riders may not find this ride fun at all, but for us insane few…this is where mountain biking is at its best. 

Challenging what we consider normal is part of the fun in my riding. I am constantly trying to push the envelope of technical ability and endurance. Rides at Rich test all of your skills at once, and after finishing…I have a feeling of accomplishment as I love to hate the next trip out to this hill. I will never turn down a ride to this area as it makes me a better rider with every attempt. This kind of challenge is not for everyone, but if you give yourself the chance…you can find out that you are much more capable than you ever thought.

Next time you find yourself bailing on the ride that visits “that trail”…don’t. Take the chance and see what you are really made of. Everyone is in the same boat so just pace yourself and make it through. You might never fully conquer the beast, but you will gain a lot along the way.

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