Georgia's Dragon - The Suches Loop | Route Ref. #34859

Motorcycle Route Author

By Guest (0 McR Points) on May 31, 2007

Rider Reviews

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Guest

March 29, 2013

The Suches Loop makes a nice day ride from…

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bkp

August 23, 2013

The Suches Loop is a "rider definable" road, in…

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Written Directions

Start in Dahlonega, GA (not a bed destination itself) and head north out of Dahlonega on Route 60. Stay on 60N (it merges with GA 19) as it splits off to the left towards Suches, GA. Follow it (If you can) up to Suches, GA and hang a right on Route 180 (Wolfpen Gap Road). Stay on that till it dead ends in to US Highway 129/19. At that point take a right on to US 129/19 and follow it south back down into Dahlonega.

Scenery

The route is in the midst of the Blue Ridge Mountains and Chattahoochee National Forest and drives around the base of Georgia's Blood Mountain. This is an exceptionally beautiful area in the fall as the foliage turns into a picturesque tapestry of red, gold, and green. And you'll have some incredible views up there as you pass through three mountain passes along the way: Neel's Gap, Hester Gap, and Stonepile Gap. If you want to get a feel for the views up there, visit a couple of the web cams from the nearby Brasstown Bald observation points.

Drive Enjoyment

This is the road to ride if you are looking for a challenge, and it should have been the first route submitted for Georgia. Either an oversight or a vain attempt to keep it a secret. GA 19 is great because it is 2 lanes up the mountain, allowing for very easy passing. 180 is much tougher as it is the width of a driveway with countless blind turns and steep elevation changes. The multiple memorials on the side of the roads are a testament to the challenge that lies before you and a strict warning to ride within your abilities, for your safety and for the safety of those you share the road with. Overall this is mountain road traveling at its best!.

Tourism Opportunities

At the intersection of SR60 and 180 are two excellent motorcycle resources. TWO (Two Wheels Only) is a great bike restaurant and motorcycle hostel that serves up a fine burger and friendly service. Across the corner is Dale's, the spot where most of the bikes stop to refuel and the bikers stop to caffeinate. Along the route there are several pullouts to stop and enjoy the view. Also, along the way (where route 180 meets US 129) you will find beautiful Vogel State Park.