Two Park Plus Ride

It was just under 40 degrees when the four TLCMC riders (Steve, Robert L., Melinda and Bob S.) headed north-east working their way on colorful and historic backroads to Chatsworth, and the two hundred year old Vann House. They arrived just in time to join a tour of what had been the home of one of the most powerful families in the Cherokee Nation. The Vann House is original, as is its setting on a knoll just off the Old Federal Road. On the grounds are many period out-buildings, but the grounds, while picturesque, are only a fraction of the thousands of acres the plantation once contained.

After completing the tour and poking their noses into the restored outbuildings the four headed east on SR 52 to take a glance at the first of the two parks on the itinerary, (Fort Mountain), while heading to Ellijay for lunch. What is usually a first class motorcycling road over the mountain, was this day unfortunately clogged with cars whose drivers apparently were seriously intimidated by the "twisties" that most riders love. So it was  follow the on again, off again brake-lights most of the way down to Ellijay. At least it gave the riders a chance to take in the vistas.

Ellijay was crowded with folks who probably came north to see the "colors" (too late) so a quick decision was made to forgo lunch at the Cantaberry Restaurant, and instead head for the second park, Amicalola , for lunch at the Lodge.. Here again there were crowds enjoying a family day outside. In spite of the throng the four were seated quickly, and soon had plates of goodies from the buffet. Over lunch the four shared "war stories" and tips/techniques for negotiating the turns prevalent on the north Georgia roads.

After lunch it was down the hill and over numerous semi-secret backroads to Cherokee county and home by 4 p.m. By all accounts a good ride and great fellowship. Fall and Winter offer some great riding if you are prepared. Heated vest/jackets and heated gloves help make cold weather riding a different, and enjoyable experience.

(Photos and video of the trip are in short supply as some knucklehead (me) left the home-made lens cover on the GoPro for much of the trip. Now I know why GoPro doesn't offer one as an option.