Bear Creek and Pinhoti Trails (Ellijay)
Some of the oldest and most loved mountain bike trails in the Southeast, deep in the national forest outside Ellijay. Long climbs, remote singletrack, and big descents.
| Location | Chattahoochee National Forest, west of Ellijay |
| Drive from our store | About 2 hr 45 min |
| Length | 20+ miles across Bear Creek and Pinhoti 1, 2 and 3 |
| Surface | Singletrack and old doubletrack, rocky and technical in spots |
| Skill level | Intermediate to advanced |
| Restrooms | None |
Cartecay Bike Shop trail guide for current conditions, hours, and fees.
About the ride
Bear Creek and the nearby sections of the Pinhoti Trail are a backcountry-style ride in the national forest outside Ellijay. They're some of the oldest mountain bike trails in the region, with a mix of singletrack, old logging roads, stream crossings, and big climbs.
The Bear Creek loop is a good introduction. Link in Pinhoti 1, 2, and 3 for a long, hard day. The Pinhoti sections are best for intermediate and stronger riders.
Stop at Cartecay Bike Shop in Ellijay for a map and local advice on how to link the loops.
Where to park
| Lot | Address | Links |
|---|---|---|
| Bear Creek Trailhead | Bear Creek Trailhead, Ellijay, GA |
Map Directions |
The trailhead is up a gravel Forest Service road off Gates Chapel Rd. On weekends, park along the paved road below when the lot fills.
Good to know
- E-bikes are not allowed on the Pinhoti Trail or other non-motorized national forest trails.
- No restrooms or water.
- The lot fills on weekends.
- Mulberry Gap, a mountain bike lodge nearby, is a popular place to stay.
Stop by Okana Outdoors before you ride
We are at 1101 Parkside Main, Greensboro, GA 30642, in the Publix shopping center next to Amici. We sell and service Trek, Electra, Aventon, and Segway bikes.
Hours: Monday to Friday 10am to 5pm, Saturday 11am to 5pm, closed Sunday. Heading out early on a weekend? Stop by the day before so you have what you need.
Questions about where to ride? Call us at (706) 405-3393.
Road trip? Need a way to haul your bikes? We rent a 2-bike hitch carrier that fits a 2-inch receiver. See rentals.
See all bike trails near Lake Oconee
Trail information is believed to be accurate but is not guaranteed. Conditions, closures, fees, and parking can change without notice. Please check with the park or trail manager before heading out, and ride within your ability.