The Pinhoti Trail: Fat Forty Endurance Ride via Dennis Mill Road

Overview

The Pinhoti Trail, particularly its Pinhoti 6-5-4 route that includes P3, offers an exhilarating yet challenging cycling experience for serious mountain biking enthusiasts. Touted as a "Fat Forty" by locals, this out-and-back trail promises 20 grueling miles of rolling climbs, fast two-tracks, and multiple creek crossings. Situated in the scenic vicinity of Chatsworth, Georgia, the trail beckons with its technical difficulty and picturesque surroundings. The trailhead starts from the new parking lot on Dennis Mill Road and offers a demanding yet rewarding course that leads all the way to Highway 52, near Fort Mountain State Park.

Key Details

• Distance: 20 miles
• Level: Difficult
• Route Type: Out & Back
• City: Chatsworth
• State: Georgia

How to Get There

1. I-75 North - Exit 393
2. Head onto Hwy 411 North for 25 miles
3. Right turn on Hwy 136 for 0.25 miles
4. Left turn on Dennis Mill Road for 1 mile
5. Find the large gravel parking lot on the right side, marked by a small Pinhoti trail blaze on the North side.

For those coming from Ellijay, it's a straightforward 16.5-mile drive along Hwy 282/76 to the turn-off for Dennis Mill Road.

The Ride Experience

If you're eager to test your mettle, gear up for an intense initial climb that spans nearly ¾ mile from the Dennis Mill Road trailhead. This portion is taxing on the legs, even for riders using singlespeeds. Once conquered, the trail plateaus into a 60/40 split of uphill and downhill segments.The trail features some single track, but most of it is a rugged two-track. Connecting them is a new single-track stretch limited to about 3 miles. Though not exceedingly technical, this section is currently in the process of being widened and may be a bit soft under the tires.

Route Variations and Comments

Many cyclists pair this route with Pinhoti 3 for an even more intense endurance challenge. Be warned: the climbs are not for the faint-hearted. If looking for a different return option, consider the Rock Creek ORV trails.The two-track portions offer a bit of respite from the unrelenting uphill climbs, making the downhill journey back to Dennis Mill Road a joyful cruise. The trail does feature several creek crossings, which can break the monotony and add a splash of adventure to your ride.

Final Thoughts

This Pinhoti Trail route from Dennis Mill Road is a compelling option for anyone looking for an endurance challenge. Though the uphill stretches are demanding, the promise of thrilling downhills and enchanting scenery makes this a must-ride trail for any serious mountain biker.