Turner Creek Trail: An Underrated Gem in the Jake/Bull Mountain Trail System

Overview

Turner Creek Trail serves as an enthralling point-to-point mountain bike trail, located in the beautiful city of Dahlonega, Georgia. With a distance of 7 miles and a difficulty rating of 'Difficult,' this trail guarantees a heart-pounding adventure. While this trail might be overshadowed by its bigger siblings in the Bull Mountain area, those who dare to ride here find it to be a rewarding experience.

Trail Features and Terrain

• Extensive switchbacks leading to the ridge
• Sections of doubletrack that have overgrown into singletrack
• Creek crossings and moderately tough climbs
• A mix of erosion-prone areas and well-maintained stretches

The trail was rerouted in early 2013, transforming it into a more sustainable singletrack path. While some stretches still offer a doubletrack, it's mainly a challenging and versatile trail featuring some incredible switchbacks leading to the ridge. The forest around the trail has regrown, making it feel more like an adventurous path rather than a "dirt sidewalk."

Connectivity and Accessibility

Easily accessible from Atlanta, it serves as a crucial connector between the Bull Mountain and Jake Mountain trail systems. The trailhead starts directly across the entrance to Bull Mountain and eventually leads you into the Turner Creek/Nimblewill Trail.

How to Get There

1. Head north from Atlanta on Highway 400 to GA 136.
2. Turn left and continue for 6.5 miles until you reach GA 9.
3. Turn right and drive for 4.7 miles to GA 52.
4. Make a left and continue for 7.5 miles until you reach the abandoned Grizzles Store.
5. Turn right here, and follow the signs for Nimblewill Baptist Church.
6. Keep on the paved road for 3.2 miles, and you'll find Forest Road 28 on your right.
7. Turn here, then take the first left onto FR 83.
8. Drive 1.5 miles to a gravel parking lot—the same one as Bull Mountain's.
9. Finally, pedal 0.3 miles north, and you'll find the gated trailhead.

Rider's Tips and Comments

• If you're going from north to south, brace yourself for a moderately challenging climb.
• Beware of horse traffic, as the trail sees fairly frequent equestrian use.
• Always yield: mountain bikers must yield to everyone on this trail.
• The descent from the ridge to the dam is exhilarating but be cautious around the erosion-prone dam area.
• The winter season offers better visibility due to reduced underbrush, but creek crossings can be more challenging.
• For a more extended ride, consider doing this trail as part of the larger 11-mile Bull Mountain loop.

Final Thoughts

Turner Creek Trail has matured over the years into a trail that delivers on thrills and challenges. Its climbs may not be as grueling as Bull Mountain, but they offer a satisfying workout. Meanwhile, the switchbacks and descents serve up a feast for the adrenal glands. So if you're looking for a trail that offers both great climbs and fun descents, this hidden gem in the Jake/Bull mountain system might just become your new favorite.