Flat Creek Loop

Ran the trail clockwise on my Santa Cruz Blur. Trail starts fast and tight, watch for hikers. The climb is long with some mild technical features but it’s a great workout. Once you get to the top the end is very fast with plenty of room. Ran into at least 3 downed trees that I had to dismount for.

as with all Blue ridge trails the geography is absolutely gorgeous. this however is really a downhill trail. and you have to have a big bike to handle it; not recommended for XC at all. frankly clockwise is impossible, there are no clear lines and practically impossible to get a cadence.

Flat Creek Loop is one of the better mountain biking trails in North Georgia and is more challenging than the Blue rating implies. Although 100% rideable in either direction, counterclockwise is best. The trail has three distinct sections which are quite different. Initially, riders will climb a wide, reasonably sustained uphill that in nearly forest service road. Upon reaching the high point, one of the longer sustained downhills in the area begins. This section is rocky, rooty, and fast with over 700ft and elevation drop. There are multiple foot wide water crossings that amount to little more than puddles. After completing the downhill and crossing the bridge, a challenging uphill gains over 400ft in one mile. The steep, rooty, and narrow uphill is not easy, but can be cleared by advanced riders. Evan though this trail is popular with hikers, it is reasonable to ride on busy weekends.