REI (one of my favorite places to buy outdoor gear here in Nashville) is hosting a 4-day bike ride which includes portions of the Natchez Trace Parkway.
The Natchez Trace Parkway has been ranked among the Top 10 rides in the U.S., and we have selected some of the northern stretch’s best accommodations, activities and dining for this unique cultural, historic, and scenic weekend tour. This getaway will showcase the contrasting urban and natural environments of middle Tennessee, from the bright lights of Nashville – its streets lined with history and honkey-tonks, to the quiet horse farms of the surrounding counties.”
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And what perfect timing…
The hills are alive with the colors of red, orange, and yellow that time of year!
The route will cover the northern portion of the Natchez Trace Parkway, as well as numerous backroads of the surrounding counties. Overnight accommodations are provided in Nashville and Thompson’s Station in Williamson County, Tennessee.
What To Expect
In case you’re wondering what the route is like… the folks at REI, rate this bike ride a 4 out of 5.
According to their ratings scale:
- 4 = Vigorous: Recommended for fit travelers with basic skills
- Activity: 5-8 hours most days
- Distances: Hike up to 12 miles most days, cycle 30-50 miles most days
- Surfaces: mountainous, exposed terrain with steep ascents/descents and uneven trails
- Elevation change: up to 4,000 ft/day
- Altitude: up to 14,000 ft.
- Experience and a doctor’s release may be required
You can even pack light, since REI provides riders with bikes and helmets. If there’s a better way to enjoy the crisp weather of fall, we sure can’t think of one.”
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