Become King of the Mountain at Six Gap Century in Dahlonega
Cycling enthusiasts who love to explore some of the most beautiful mountain scenery in Northern Georgia may be found at the annual Six Gap Century Weekend in Dahlonega this fall. The 25th Annual "Six Gap Century" is being held Saturday, September 28 and offers one of the most challenging biking events in the country.
The "Six Gap Century" ride covers 11,200 feet of vertical climbing covering over 104 miles with elevations ranging from 1400 to 3460 over the 6 gaps throughout the course. For the seasoned cyclist, become "King of the Mountain" by completing the course in the best time in one of three different age categories (34 and under; 35 to 54 and 55+). Last year, 2 KOM winners in the 55+ finished with impressive times which proves that Baby Boomers can keep the pace!
For those not ready to take the challenge of the full course, the race offers 2 other options for those who want to enjoy the event, but are not quite ready for the 104 mile ride. The "Three Gap Fifty’s" alternative route offers half the gaps and half the distance, but is nevertheless a demanding and challenging course at 58 miles with elevations ranging from 1,400 feet to 3,364 feet.
The novice cyclist has a third option, the 7th Annual "Valley Bike" which is a 35-mile ride through the valleys of Yahoola. This is a great way to enjoy the Six Gap Century Weekend, taste locally grown wine in one of the best wine towns and also explore the scenery and check out some of the stunning mountain homes for sale near Dahlonega.
Cycling is a not only a great way to enjoy the scenic views that Georgia has to offer, but is also a great way to "stay in tip top shape" as you age. Cycling is essential to heart health, according to the British Medical Association, cycling just 20 miles a week can reduce your risk of coronary heart disease by as much as 50%! Cycling is also considered a low-impact exercise and boasts many health benefits beyond the obvious of improved cardiovascular well-being (research shows that cycling can boost your cardiovascular system by 3-7%). Not only does cycling improve leg strength, but it also incorporates hips, thighs and upper body as well as a body's core in every pedal stroke.
Additionally, it will help build stamina, improve coordination, and is also great for keeping the hip and knee joints in good shape. Cycling also wards off weight gain associated with aging by burning an average of 300 calories per 30 minute ride. That 30 minute ride daily will knock off 11 pounds of fat a year! Not only is in great physically, but mentality as well by giving an overall sense of well-being and improved mood, especially as folks continue to age.
After enjoying the biking adventure, check out some of the homes for sale near Dahlonega. Big Canoe in Jasper, is one of the more popular gated mountain communities in Georgia with an elevation of 3,200 feet and over 8,000 acres of lush surroundings. Imagine golfing with a backdrop of the Blue Ridge Mountains, reflective lakes and the cascading waterfalls as Big Canoe offers a 27 Hole Championship Golf Course designed by Joe Lee rated one of the top courses in the region. Big Canoe also boasts a Lodge-style Golf Clubhouse overlooking Lake Sconti; a 16,000 square foot Fitness Center, both a Heated Indoor Pool and 2 Outdoor Pools; the Wildcat Recreation Center for the kids; 8 Tennis Courts; 22 miles of Hiking Trails; 3 Stocked Private Lakes for fishing; Community Boat Docks and a Marina Store; The Villages Market and 3 dog parks. This is a perfect place for you to consider when planning your retirement investment.
Take a peek at Big Canoe homes
Another sought after gated mountain communitiy in Georgia can be found at the Currahee Club on Lake Hartwell in Toccoa. This Southern Living Inspired Community is situated on 1,200 acres with incredible long range mountain views of South Carolina from its award winning Georgia 18 Hole Championship Golf Course designed by Jim Fazio. Other amenities include the grand Currahee Clubhouse, one of the finest we've seen. Adjacent to the 48,000 square foot facility is a resort-style Swimming Pool, 2 Tennis Courts and a Fitness Center. There is also the Currahee Club Lake Park and covered community boat docks as well as a Children's Playground, Ball Courts and Organic Community Garden. Within the 24 Hour Manned Gated Entrance, folks are enjoying a sweet life inside and outside their homes in this exquisite Lake Hartwell community.
Take a peek at Currahee Club homes
After a busy day of biking and visiting gated mountain communities in Georgia, finish off the day with a taste of local wines in the best wine town of Dahlonega. There are over 100 acres of grapes being grown in this region producing over 23,000 bottled cases annually. In addition to a wide array of wine selections (European, French and American varieties), Dahlonega's award-winning wineries attract over 100,000 wine enthusiasts each year.
The Six Gap Century Weekend in northern Georgia is a great week to kick off the fall foliage season and see homes for sale near Dahlonega. If you're exploring the area for the first time, ask for our free Dahlonega relocation information.
