Brasstown Bald Spur

The short, steep paved spur from Jacks Gap to the summit parking of Brasstown Bald, the highest point in Georgia, climbing roughly 1,700 feet in under three miles.

This is a hill-climb in miniature rather than a long drive, and that is exactly its appeal. From the junction of GA 180 and the Spur at Jacks Gap the road rears up immediately, averaging better than eleven percent for the 2.9-mile climb to the summit lot, with switchbacks stacked between dense Blue Ridge hardwoods. It is a popular cycling test piece for the same reason, so expect to share the lane with riders grinding uphill. From the top a short walk reaches the observation deck and its 360-degree view that on a clear day takes in four states. The surface is good but the gradient is relentless and there is little room to recover between corners. Mind cyclists in the lane on blind switchbacks, the sustained steep grade that overheats brakes on the descent, and the gravel break where a trail crosses the pavement.