Welcome, I think you'll find this forum will help you out with your goals in cycling.
You talk about traveling away from Atlanta, but along those same lines, I have a question for you. I will be visiting Atlanta this week, arriving tomorrow night. I'm bringing my trusty steed (mtn bike) and plan to do some touring of the city. How is cycling in the city? Are there any mountain bike areas within riding distance of downtown? Anyway, hope you enjoy the forums, and good luck with your riding.
Mike