Subject: RE: Ironman Chattanooga : Official ThreadOriginally posted by hornjs
I think its Natchez Trace, a road that runs from Nashville, down into Mississippi. 440 miles of cycling friendly highway acc to the website. Haven't ridden it, but the site claims conditions conducive to cycling (state park land and low speed limits?). Would love to ride it sometime when warmer.
You pretty much nailed it. I've only ridden a short section starting near Nashville. Basically a two-lane road with little traffic. Commercial traffic is banned though you occasionally see light commercial traffic though never large trucks. There is no shoulder but vehicle traffic is so light it doesn't matter. Starting in Nashville it is mostly rolling hills. I've heard it gets flatter as you get closer to MS. There are occasional rest areas with restrooms and water fountains. There are also exits to other roads where you can find convenience stores if needed. I do most my long rides out there even though it is a 50-55 minute drive from my house. Best parts for me - little traffic, no turns to get lost (just ride and turn around when ready ), challenging terrain, beautiful views.
You ride across this bridge just a few miles outside of Nashville.
http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/9/96/Natchez_Trace_Pa...
Most of the time the population on the Trace looks something like this:
Cyclists > wild turkeys > deer > motorcyclists > automobiles |