Bauxite Trails: Collegedale, Tennessee's Hidden Gem for Cyclists

Overview

Tucked away in the heart of Collegedale, Tennessee, the Bauxite Trails offer a unique blend of speed and natural scenery for mountain biking enthusiasts. With 10 miles of loop routes, this trail system is ideally suited for riders who fall into the hard beginner to easy intermediate category. This engaging trail is not only well-marked but also packed with man-made features for an adrenaline-pumping experience.

Directions: Finding Your Way to Bauxite

Finding the trailhead is the first adventure here. Park near the graveyard and look for a worn path between two houses opposite the cemetery. A split rail fence serves as your cue to enter this well-maintained trail network. Alternatively, for those who don’t mind a warm-up ride, there's a school down the street where you can park and pedal to the trailhead.

Unique Features and Loops

The trail offers:

• Doubletrack connector leading to singletrack loops
• Fast, flowy paths in the majority of sections
• Man-made features to add an extra thrill
• Optional rocky descents and drop-offs for intermediate riders

Rider Insights

Cyclists who have ridden this trail report it as an exceptionally well-maintained system. Despite a fallen tree in the back of Murky Marsh Trail and a couple down on the Black Forest section, the overall condition is top-notch.Murky Marsh comes recommended for its elongated downhill section filled with exciting whoop-de-doos, followed by a satisfying climb. Pogo, another popular loop, offers a decision point where riders can opt for a rocky downhill or a drop-off, both of which are navigable for an intermediate-level cyclist.The trail signage is a highlight, ensuring that even first-time visitors will find their way around comfortably. One rider clocked nearly 9.7 miles on an odometer, finding it a refreshing course for both speed and stamina.

Tips and Precautions

1. The trail is excellent for those who are just graduating from beginner to intermediate levels.
2. Watch for fallen trees in the Murky Marsh and Black Forest sections.
3. The Forest Lane starting from B parking, opposite the Cemetery, makes for an excellent warm-up climb.

Conclusion

The Bauxite Trails provide an invigorating yet accessible mountain biking experience. With its well-marked paths, man-made features, and versatile loops, it promises an exhilarating ride without much of a hassle in terms of climbing. For those residing in or visiting Collegedale, this trail is a must-ride locale that offers a slice of Tennessee’s natural beauty.