Tallulah Gorge State Park to Lake Rabun

Le Tour de Lac Rabun Roulant: First Twelve Miles Saddle up for the first twelve miles of Le Tour de Lac Rabun Roulant, a captivating cycling route that winds through Northeast Georgia’s Blue Ridge Mountains, tracing the sparkling shores of Lake Rabun. This Strava route serves up smooth pavement, gentle rollers, and iconic local landmarks, blending natural splendor with Southern charm for an unforgettable ride. Miles 0–3: Terrora Circle at Tallulah Gorge to Mathis Dam Your journey kicks off on Terrora Circle, nestled near the awe-inspiring Tallulah Gorge State Park, where the Tallulah River carves a 1,000-foot-deep canyon with six cascading waterfalls. Famous for Karl Wallenda’s daring 1970 tightrope walk, this natural wonder sets an electrifying tone as you clip in and roll out. From Terrora Circle, the route heads west along Old US 441, gliding through dense forests with glimpses of the gorge’s rugged cliffs. By mile 3, you’ll reach Mathis Dam, the 1915 engineering marvel that created Lake Rabun. Framed by pine-covered hills, this concrete giant marks the lake’s southern edge, offering a stunning view of the serene headwaters—perfect for a quick snapshot before pedaling on. Miles 3–6: Mathis Dam to Rabun Beach Recreation Area From Mathis Dam, the route merges onto Lake Rabun Road, hugging the lake’s southern shore. The pavement is silky smooth, with gentle undulations that let you find your groove as Lake Rabun’s emerald waters sparkle to your right. Around mile 4, you’ll pass Hall’s Boat House, a historic marina where kayakers paddle and anglers cast for bass, infusing the scene with the lake’s early 20th-century legacy as a retreat for Georgia’s elite. By mile 6, you’ll arrive at Rabun Beach Recreation Area, a lakeside oasis with a sandy beach, picnic tables, and towering pines. This serene cove, backed by the distant Blue Ridge Mountains, is a cyclist’s dream for a quick pause to soak in the tranquil vibes. Miles 6–9: Rabun Beach to Angel Falls Trailhead Leaving Rabun Beach Recreation Area, Lake Rabun Road continues along the lake’s western shore, weaving through a lush canopy of hardwoods and mountain laurel. The terrain offers a delightful mix of gentle climbs and sweeping curves, keeping your legs engaged while the lake’s glassy surface peeks through the trees. Around mile 9, you’ll spot the Angel Falls Trailhead, a gateway to a scenic hiking trail leading to two stunning waterfalls—Angel Falls and Panther Falls—tucked in the Rabun County wilderness. This trailhead, popular among outdoor enthusiasts, adds a spark of adventure to the route, tempting you to return later for a hike through the forest’s cascading beauty. Miles 9–12: Angel Falls Trailhead to Nacoochee Dam As you pedal past the Angel Falls Trailhead, Lake Rabun Road traces the lake’s northern curve, delivering more stunning views and a cyclist-friendly blend of flat stretches and mild rollers. The forest canopy parts to reveal cozy lake homes and their docks, bobbing with paddleboards and canoes, evoking tales of summer retreats and local lore. By mile 12, you’ll reach Nacoochee Dam, the historic Georgia Power structure anchoring the lake’s northern tip. This dam, with its gentle spillway and commanding views of Lake Rabun’s upper reaches, marks a triumphant milestone. The surrounding area hums with stories of early settlers and moonshiners, infusing the ride with a sense of timeless adventure. These first twelve miles of Le Tour de Lac Rabun Roulant are a cyclist’s paradise, blending the raw majesty of Tallulah Gorge, the historic heft of Mathis and Nacoochee Dams, and the serene beauty of Lake Rabun’s shores. With buttery roads, gentle climbs, and a string of local gems like the Angel Falls Trailhead, this Strava route is a love letter to Northeast Georgia’s wild heart. Chase those segments and savor every pedal stroke!