Cycling Bell Mountain, Georgia
Ride just 2.1 miles but gain 1,377’ at 12.5% average grade.
Bell Mountain is a beast and the undisputed hardest bike climb in all of Georgia. There is a quarter-mile beginning at mile 1.3 that averages 19.4%, and a fule mile averaging 17% from mile 0.5 to 1.5.
This is an epic climb ending at Bell Mountain Summit and observation platform.
Normally a photo doesn’t capture true grade - this one does!
Climb summary by PJAMM ambassador Dan Razum of San Jose, California:
Bell Mountain is a stout climb, you definitely want to make sure that you have low gears on your bike for this one. The first half-mile or so isn't bad, but after that it doesn't let up until you reach the summit.
We start climbing along a residential area with a fair number of houses along the way. As we climb, the houses thin out. The road condition is decent but narrow, so beware of any descending cars. We didn't encounter any traffic on a weekday morning, but there is a nice scenic view at the top, so there could be traffic on the weekends.
Bottom left photo - while the dog gets a bit of relief, we get none on this brutal climb . . .
As we passed a house along the way, a dog saw us and came out to investigate. We were a little cautious at first, because dogs and cyclists don't always mix well, but there was nothing to worry about. The dog graciously guided us to the summit. Being a local dog, he knew the road better than us and we had a hard time keeping up with him! But he did his
job well and kept the road clear of any pesky squirrels or birds.
There is a small parking area near the top and another larger parking area at the end of the pavement. There is a small overlook and a staircase to the summit itself. We definitely recommend climbing the stairs to the top as there are amazing 360 degree views from there. The rocks around the parking lot, as well as the staircase itself, are full of graffiti, despite several signs prohibiting any spray paint. The graffiti is rather interesting and artistic, although local officials may feel otherwise.
Views from the Hal Herrin Scenic Overlook at the top of the climb.
4.8 Google Reviews
The descent is rather technical, so be sure to exercise caution on the way down.