“Travel not to escape life, but so life does not escape us.” —Anonymous
“Nothing compares to the simple pleasure of riding a bike.” —John F. Kennedy
Bicycling Across the States: Adventures in Kentucky, Tennessee, and Georgia
As part of my goal to bicycle through all 50 states and D.C., I’m excited to share my latest adventures, even if they aren’t in chronological order. I hope these articles inspire your own cycling trips!
In April 2023, President Don Mobley (at the time of this adventure Don was ONLY a Vice President) and I set off for Georgia to participate in the BRAG Spring Tune Up, an event designed to get cyclists ready for the Bike Ride Across Georgia (BRAG) that takes place in May and June. The Spring Tune Up, held from April 4-6, serves as a great way to shake off the winter rust and gear up for a memorable ride across the Peach State.
State 16: Kentucky
On our way to Georgia, we decided to make a pit stop in Kentucky. Using TrailLink.com for planning, I discovered the Mammoth Cave Railroad Bike and Hike Trail. While it’s best suited for hybrid or mountain bikes due to its crushed gravel and ballast surface, we embraced the challenge. The uphill trek was rewarding, and the thrilling downhill descent made it all worth it! After our ride, we spent the night enjoying the vibrant atmosphere of Nashville’s Broadway Street.
State 17: Tennessee
Next, we headed to Chattanooga for a ride along the beautiful Tennessee Riverwalk. It was a scenic journey, but as we drove toward Rutledge, Georgia, we were met with heavy rain—a recurring theme for our Spring Tune Up. We opted for a cozy hotel stay rather than setting up camp in the downpour.
State 18: Georgia
Arriving at our campsite, we quickly learned about the infamous red clay of Georgia. Many cars got stuck, and we trudged through it to access food, outhouses, and music. The Spring Tune Up featured daily rides with varying distances and plenty of hills—longer and steeper than you might find on Chevy Chase! The country roads were beautiful, and the rest stops offered a variety of food and drinks, with my personal favorite being the peanut butter and jelly tacos—simple but delicious. Each stop was a chance to recharge, enjoy some live music, and connect with fellow cyclists.
As the event wrapped up, we drove straight home, though I tried to convince Don to detour ten miles to bike in Alabama—another state for the future!
Final Thoughts
I highly recommend adding the BRAG Spring Tune Up to your calendar for April 4-6, 2025. Keep an eye on the weather as the date approaches—if it looks dry, I encourage you to go for it! The BRAG team does an excellent job organizing everything, and it’s truly a wonderful experience. Four thumbs up (that includes Don’s)!
Stay tuned for my next adventure in North Carolina!
Happy cycling!