Ft Yargo State Park Mtn Biking (Winder)

Fort Yargo State Park features 18 miles of scenic mountain biking and hiking trails that surround its beautiful 260-acre lake.  The park is a convenient 45-minute drive from NE Atlanta (see directions below).

We'll be riding the 12 mile outer (blue) loop at an intermediate pace.  Some riding experience is recommended for this ride, as well as a mountain bike (suspension optional).  This loop includes at least one long climb (the "gas-line"), some fun "whoop-de-doos" and enough roots to keep you looking for that smooth line! Overall, we'd rate the outer trail as pure intermediate, with enough elevation change to keep your heart pumping and optional technical features to keep you interested. Comparable GA trails include the "Blankets Creek Dwelling" loop near Woodstock and the "Chicopee" main loop near Gainesville.

After the ride, we can head to Ruby Tuesday for lunch just outside the Park in Winder. Turn right out of park, restaurant is 0.6 miles on the left.

PARK FEATURES & SPECIAL NOTES:
• Online Park Trail Map here
• Directional Trails (everyone goes same direction)
• Restrooms at parking lot
• $5 GA State Park Parking Fee ($50 annual pass available at park entrance). You an also go to your local Library & check out a free pass if one is available.

DESTINATION ADDRESSES FOR USE WITH GOOGLE.COM/MAPS & GPS:
FT. YARGO STATE PARK ENTRANCE: 210 South Broad St, Winder, GA
BIKER PARKING LOT LAT/LON: 33.97937 N, -83.73446 W

DIRECTIONS FROM I-85/I-285 "SPAGHETTI JUNCTION" INTERCHANGE:
(It's about 34 miles each way -- about 45 minutes with normal traffic) 

1. Head northeast on I-85 North and go 10.2 miles 

2. Take I-85 Exit #106 to merge onto GA-316 eastward toward Lawrenceville/Athens and go 21.2 miles, 

3. Turn Left onto GA-81 N and go 3.0 miles,

4. Turn Right into Ft Yargo State Park.  Continue 0.4 mile to the trailhead parking lot on your left (across from the tennis courts).  Look for Harry's green Element.