Reinhardt Opens New Biking & Hiking Trails

Trail Map (PDF document)

Taking advantage of the beautiful views and terrains present on the Reinhardt College campus, the College has created a mountain biking and hiking trail system on the Waleska Main Campus. The five mile system of inter-connected trails can be used year-round for bikers, hikers and runners, and the system is open to all students, faculty, staff and the community.

"The addition of the trail system provides Reinhardt students, as well as, the community at large with an exciting new avenue for adventure, recreational sport/athletics activities," said Walter May, director of student activities.

For bikers, the trails are intended for experienced riders. They are short but strenuous climbs, plus rocky sections and water crossing, so riders should be ready to ride for at least an hour.

"The Reinhardt trails are a great option for riders. They are close enough to ride after work, but challenging enough to prepare riders for weekends in the mountains. There are tough climbs, fast downhills, and technical sections that force riders to use all their gears, challenge their skills, and make for a very fun ride," said Dr. Steve Powers, assistant professor of biology. Powers assisted in the creation of the trails and regularly rides them.

The trailhead is located on Grady Street near the James & Sis Brown Athletic Center, and parking is available in the Athletic Center parking lot. All users of the trail system will be required to complete and submit a waiver & release form before using the trails. The forms and maps of the trails are located at the trailhead kiosk.

"Safety is a major part of enjoying the ride. We want riders to plan ahead - know their equipment and ability along with always wearing a helmet and riding with a friend. For anyone interested in more information on mountain biking, I would encourage them to contact biking organizations such as SORBA (Southern Off-Road Bicycle Association) or the IMBA (International Mountain Bicycling Association)," said Dr. Roger Lee, vice president of student affairs and an avid mountain biker.

The trails will be day-use only and hours are sunrise to sunset. The trails were created by Powers and student activities staff, and the system itself will be maintained continuously throughout the year.

"This is an on-going project for our campus, and we want the trails to be a community resource, not only for the campus but for residents in Cherokee, Pickens and other areas," said Walter May, director of student activities.

For more information on the Reinhardt Biking & Hiking Trails, please call 770-720-5540 or WPM@reinhardt.edu.

For more information

Office of Marketing and Communications, top floor of Burgess Administration Building

media relations Lauren Thomas (770) 720-5514 LHT@reinhardt.edu
marketing Marsha White (770) 720-5512  MSW@reinhardt.edu
graphic design Amanda Brown (770) 720-5907 ALB@reinhardt.edu