A 133-mile loop of hairpin turns, ridgeline overlooks, and rain-shadow weather that keeps the twisties open longer than anywhere else nearby. Park under the trees, rest up, and do it again tomorrow.
Every mile of the Gauntlet earns the view, and there's a warm porch waiting at the end of it.
Starting just outside Blairsville, The Gauntlet is the name North Georgia riders and drivers use for a legendary loop of hairpin turns, ridgeline overlooks, and forest-canopy roads through the Appalachian Highlands. Misty Mountain sits just minutes from the start of it.
The North Georgia mountains also sit in a rain shadow. While nearby areas get snowed in, these roads often stay clear, stretching the riding season well into winter.
Roll in after a full day carving through Blood Mountain and Suches, park on our packed-gravel lot or right by your cabin, and rest up for tomorrow's ride.
Tap a spot on the list to see the drive from Misty Mountain: real places along and around the Gauntlet.
The highlights along The Gauntlet, roughly in the order you'll hit them leaving Blairsville. Scroll or use the arrows.
US-129 greets you immediately with winding curves through lush forest, with glimpses of waterfalls and rolling hills.
A legendary series of tight turns that challenge even experienced riders. Pause at the top for valley views.
Panoramic overlooks of the surrounding mountains. Worth pulling over for the view alone.
Tight turns and steep inclines, one of the Gauntlet's most demanding, most rewarding stretches.
GA-197, GA-28, and the GA-180 Spur lead to hidden waterfalls and small towns off the main loop.
End the day under the tree canopy: cold drink, warm porch, and your bike parked steps from the door.
The North Georgia mountains sit in a rain shadow, giving The Gauntlet some of the most consistent riding weather in the region, even through winter, while snow blankets everywhere else.
Pull up under the tree canopy and park right by your cabin, or use our packed-gravel flat lot, no tight garages or awkward street parking to deal with.
Minutes from the start of the Gauntlet and close to Helen and Blue Ridge, Misty Mountain is set up as a weekend or extended riding hub, not just a one-night stop.
Six private cabins with porches, fireplaces, and room to spread out gear, ideal for a riding group that wants their own space at the end of the day.
Book the whole Lodge for a riding club or a group of car buddies, with shared common space to swap stories about the day's ride.
Most of our cabins allow up to two dogs each, with a one-time pet fee, so you don't have to leave yours behind.
Book your stay and start planning your run at The Gauntlet.