shelbyfv

I'd like to call your attention to the BRAT tour (Bicycle Ride Across Tennessee) in September BRAT ? Bicycle Ride Across Tennessee I guess because of the time of year, kids in school, etc, this ride is very popular with us old folks. This year it's 5 riding days, down from 7 last year. The ride is a loop, no shuttles or transport complications. BRAT is organized and run by TN state parks, the support is great. Food is usually very good and two meals a day, plus rest stops are included. They haul your baggage. A real bargain compared to some tours. The past few years we've had shower trucks, clean and convenient. I've done at least 10 of these, all parts the state, and it's always been fun.

bikemig 

I did it once and thought it was a terrific ride.

FlashBazbo

It's reputed to be an excellent ride, but people should be aware . . . Unlike similar rides in other states, "Bike Ride Across Tennessee" doesn't actually ride across Tennessee. It rides from / among various State Parks in the state and each year focuses on a different region. Great cycling roads and some of the best scenery on the planet.

shelbyfv

They put a lot of effort into finding back roads that take you away from traffic. Last year was off and on the Cumberland Plateau and was relatively strenuous, plus a full 7 days. This year may have less climbing but still significant mileage. The routes are exceptionally well marked, would be difficult to get lost even w/o the provided cue sheets.

BlazingPedals

I've done many of them myself, including the first half of last year's ride. My biggest complaint is that the campsites aren't always 'tent friendly.' Last year the start/layover campsite had very little in the way of flat grass/dirt on which to pitch a tent. The showers aren't always hot, but they're rarely completely cold either. The Feds pre-empted the shower trucks the year Katrina hit and I haven't seen a shower truck since. Otherwise the support is first-class, the roads are sure better than Michigan, the routes are scenic, and the food is great.

shelbyfv

Yes, those spots at Cumberland Mtn weren't the best! They did have the shower trucks at least some of the time last year. I remember getting up one night when it was hot and taking another shower....