The trail is a loop consisting of singletrack on old forest roadbeds, a gated Forest Service road, and newly cut singletrack. The trail follows two parallel ridgelines with a dip at either end to cross Sumac Creek. There are some great views along the latter part of the ride and the fall color is great all along this trail.
Highlights: The view along the ridgelines are great. There are some pretty spots down along Sumac Creek that just beg for a good camera and a few minutes of exploration. The creek crossings are deep and refreshing. If you like switchbacks, you'll love this trail. If you don't like switchbacks, at least you'll be better at riding them after you finish this trail. The climbs are typical Cohutta--short but steep, and you have to earn the three overlooks. The fall color is awesome throughout the trail. There is a sweet singletrak downhill halfway through the ride that makes the ensuing climb out almost worth it.
To get to the trail head from Chattanooga: From I-75 south, go left at the second Ringgold exit (Hwy 41). Turn right onto GA 2. Follow GA-2 through Varnell, past Prater Mill, through Beaverdale to US-411. There are several turns. GA-2 crosses US 411 at Cisco. Continue on 2 beside a stone church - the road turns to gravel. At 1.5 miles past US-411, the road forks; go right. At 1.8 miles, go straight at the 3-way intersection. At 3.1 miles, turn right onto FS17 across from a game check cabin on your left. Follow FS17 for 2.1 miles to a parking lot on your right at the intersection of FS17 & FS17-A. Park here. Go thru the gate on FS17-A and the trailhead is about 1/10th of a mile on your left.<br />
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