Long Distance Trail Riding
In Florida we have the Wildlife Management Areas, National Forests and then there are a hand full of private off-road parks. Where do you like to ride? I personally am close to Citrus WMA and it has become a popular spot, not with just FTS, but other off-roading clubs. There are times you go out and it can be empty, then there are times you go out and it feels like you are driving down a street in New York City. But what is outside of Florida?
I've only been to a couple places out of Florida. As of this writing, my "go-to" place is Windrock Park in Oliver Springs, Tennessee. Windrock is located in the Appalachian Mountains, in between the Blue Ridge and Cumberland Plateau.
Established in 1872, the Coal Creek Company currently owns the 72,000 acres on which Windrock Park operates. All the trails accommodate (more than 300 miles worth) all types of vehicles from ATV's, SxS's to dirt bikes, mountain bikes, buggies, Jeeps and trucks.
The Jeep Badge of Honor Program currently offers three Badge trails. Trail 26 you can go up or down a creek bed. Both times I have been in the Fall and the creek bed was dried up. Recently I've seen pix of it where the water is flowing.
Trail 16 is a bit of a more advanced trail that I rode on the first time I went there and at the time it was a bit of "edge of your seat" experience. My wife was in my passenger seat and our two young sons were in the back riding in the other Jeep. I couldn't concentrate as my wife was a bundle of nerves. It made her feel more comfortable to get out and walk up the mountain. Or was it suggested for her to get out? Well, the driver does need to concentrate..
Last year I finally got to venture out on Trail 51, the last Badge Trail and it was a really great ride. About halfway through is Panther Rock and you can drive down to the ledge and drive out on it. Seeing the beautiful landscapes and being in the open air is just a once in a life time experience that you must indulge yourself with.
The area is just a home away from home. I want to visit it during all the seasons and not just the Fall. Last year I went a bit earlier and it wasn't even cold, but it was very dusty. I think I am still finding particles of dust in hidden spots.
If you love the outdoors, the fresh air, the peace of mind that you get with yourself, I tell you this my friends, do yourself the favor, check out Windrock Park. Make reservations today and make plans with your family, friends, even you club, and go spread those legs and build up that experience and give it a try.
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