Chase Street

Athens' Hidden Gem: The Chase Street Singletrack

In the heart of Athens, Georgia, concealed amidst urban structures, lies an unexpected treat for mountain bikers: The Chase Street Singletrack. Dubbed by many as a phenomenal urban trail, it promises an exhilarating ride across its 6-mile span.

Quick Trail Facts:

• Distance: 6 mi
• Level: Intermediate
• Route Type: Out & Back
• City: Athens
• State: Georgia

What to Expect on the Trail

Daring steep climbs, sharp switchbacks, and technical sections welcome riders seeking a challenging experience. This singletrack, often characterized by its clear evidence of dedicated maintenance, offers unique features like:

• Brand new bridge crossings over creeks, replacing older, shakier structures
• Sections alongside powerlines leading to extensive climbs on utility roads
• Opportunities for speed boosts in select segments, though some riders might find obstacles limiting their momentum.

Getting to the Singletrack

From the Loop in Athens, the Chase Street exit is the gateway. Behind a gate on the northside of the loop, precisely where the road forks under a powerline, the trail unveils itself. For a more detailed map and directions, longtime riders have often referred to external resources such as mtbr.com and mtobikes.com.

Cyclists Weigh In

The Chase Street Singletrack garners a variety of opinions:

• Several find it a breath of fresh air in urban riding, celebrating its challenging layout, and reveling in the excitement of finishes near local attractions like the Terrapin Brewing Co.
• A few, after a hiatus, are pleasantly surprised by the trail's sustained quality, and continuous improvements, like log overs built around tree crossings.
• Technical segments, for some, become excellent training grounds, enhancing their skill set for other trails.
• However, not all reviews glow. Some downhill riders mention the trail may not be suitable for their preference.
• A few critics find sections overgrown, obstructed by fallen trees, or hindered by spider webs, affecting the ride's flow and overall experience.

Verdict: A Local Delight or Just Another Track?

For those in Athens looking for an intermediate-level challenge, the Chase Street Singletrack might just hit the mark. However, with its out and back nature, riders must stay alert, scouting through sections to make the most of their experience. It might not cater to everyone's preference, but for those who find its quirks endearing, it's undoubtedly a local treasure.