Columbus/Pine Mtn GA rides?

[Paniolo]

I'm going to be attending a family reunion at Caloway Gardens the weekend of June 29. I would love to get a ride or even two in. Any info on the area? mtb or road and I would need to rent a bike. Post up any links/info.

Thanks!

[tbdean]

Caloway Gardens is great. Here is a 30 mile loop I did when I went to a conference there:

http://www.routeslip.com/routes/5712

Do it counter-clockwise. Mostly rural, hardly any traffic at all with the exception of one highway-type road but there you've got a decent shoulder. Caloway is famous for the "big hill" and this loop will take you on it. Pace yourself, it has a false summit. That hill is at the top of the highway, afterwards you'll turn left and decend into the State Park and head back to Caloway. It's not completely down hill, but it's nice and shady and very woody. I saw a deer.

This is about 30 miles and 2000' of climbing. If you want more then see if the MS150 route map has been published. They leave from Caloway on both days I think.

Sorry, I don't know of any MTBing in the area, but see the other thread for two good MTB books that probably list some stuff.

I rode with about a dozen guys (well, before I got dropped...) and one of them did rent a road bike. I'm not sure if it was from the Caloway people, or just a shop nearby, but Caloway should be able to give you details.

[Paniolo]

Great thanks for the route! My preference is roadie so thats great. I'll contact the gardens to see about bike rental options and plan on packing pedals and shoes. It would be great to find a group to go with so if anyone knows a lbs there give me a name.