Nine riders and mounts enjoyed the November 12th club ride on a southwestern section of the Georgia Pinhoti Trail (GPT). The ride was advertised as a 10-mile Leisure Ride, defined as a walking ride with occasional rest stops. The terrain is a combination of modest mountain climbing (some rocks on this part of the trail) and relatively flat sections of either old Forest Service roadway or wooded single track. The trail is on U.S. National Forest land, between Rome and Summerville, GA. There is an easy access, large parking lot with clean pit toilets. The fall scenery was lovely and the weather cooperated magnificently. The day started out being rather cool, but warmed into the upper 60s with plenty of sunshine. Horses and riders seemed to enjoy the refreshing break from the hot summer days.

The nine riders were Marianne Torchia, Charlene Meulemans, Sheryl Moreland, Butch Slate, Doreen Penny, RePonda Bailey, Renee Griffin, Linda Pinch, and Larry Wheat. The ride lasted 3 hours and 20 minutes, including about 30 minutes for a lunch break. The first half of the ride held true to the Leisure Ride guidance, but it was determined that all riders were experienced and comfortable with more advanced riding. Considering the interests of the entire group, the post-lunch ride ‘punched it up’ from Leisure to Level 2, with an occasional burst of Level 3 loping. All riders and mounts survived in great shape although someone suggested that they might have a sore muscle or two the next day!

The trail was in great condition and all riders appreciated the maintenance efforts of the trail volunteers who support the Georgia Pinhoti Trail Association and the U.S. Forest Service. Without the volunteer effort from these horsemen, mountain bicyclists, and hikers the trails probably would not even be open for public enjoyment.