Spring Cycle Camp
in Helen, Georgia
We welcome you and cycling friends to join us.
Since 2005 we have been returning to the Bavarian-themed town of Helen, located in the North Georgia mountains, for 4–6 days of early-season cycling. Typically, the group is 16–22 men & women with various capabilities. 2024 dates are Friday, April 19, to Friday, April 26. Pick your preferred dates within that 8–day window.
Why Georgia? The cars are few and the tarmac smooth. The vibe is friendly, not competitive. Weather in the 60s (sometimes warmer). Fantastic hill country with 1,500'–2,500' climbs over ridges ("gaps"). Expect to ride 30–70 miles daily with multiple stops (usually lunch). While we start together, we often break up midday into groups taking shorter or longer routes, according to capability or fatigue. We do not have a sag vehicle but, if necessary, we can coordinate a pickup. Scroll down for typical routes.
Lodging is at the Hampton Inn, where we've reserved a block of rooms at a discounted rate. Breakfast included. Estimated daily costs: $45 meals, $59.50 room (shared room). Round-trip gas from Park Ridge to Helen: $100 (shared). Most rideshare the 12-hour drive (700 miles) with bikes. If you fly, there may be a car with room for your bike. However you arrive, you won't need a car until it's time to head home.
Recommendations:
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Log 500 miles prior to departure
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Be comfortable riding in groups
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Riders only
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Bike in good repair with good brakes (shameless plug here for our LBS, Wheel & Sprocket, whose spring closeouts may be just what you need to get up those hills.)
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Minimum gearing 34x29 or lower. (You will use all your gears.)
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Pack tools, tires, tubes, floor pump & cleaning supplies (no local bike shops)
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Nutrition bars & gels
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Gear for sun, rain & cold
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Casual attire
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Well-stocked market nearby hotel for sandwiches, snacks, beverages
New to riding hills or multi-day bike trips? The Georgia climbs are tough, but we're riding, not racing. With adequate winter prep, you may be surprised how much more you can ride when free of life's daily responsibilities.
"Sounds fun, but I was wondering..." Our Georgia FAQ page has your answer! Or just reach out via the Join Us form.
Gettin' your bearings? Here's a map of roads near Helen and nerdy stats on all the climbs.
Typical routes
Lake Rabun–Clarksville–Batesville
(no gaps but plenty of rollers)
Hogpen gap—Wolf Pen gap—
Woody gap—wine country
(Wolf Pen is tough cat 2 climb but
the rest is milder.)
Lake Burton–Hiawassee–Owl Creek gap–Unicoi gap
Helen–Unicoi gap—Helen
(Helen's version of our Costco loop)
Summit of Hogpen Gap–
Secret Handshake loop—Wolfpen Gap
(The loop is delight of quiet back roads.)
