The loop carves its way through a picturesque valley that was once a small 1800s community. The Park Service has maintained numerous buildings as historical monuments to early settlers. Be on the lookout for white-tailed deer that feed in this area. Black bear are also seasonally common in the cove so keep a keen eye out for them. Although this ride is perfectly suited for beginners and experts alike, take caution at several steep corners and short steep hills.
Advanced riders can hit the loop numerous times making rides of any length possible.
If you're not lucky enough to make it on a Saturday morning, the best advice is to start early to avoid the motorist traffic. The loop begins 25 miles of US 441, the main route through the Smokies. There's no arguing that Florida is THE place to escape the cold weather and provides the ultimate climate for winter cycling. In fact, winter is arguably the best time for a cycling trip to the sunshine state. With summer heat often unbearable, the 60 and 70 degree temperatures of Florida's winter provides an ideal winter escape.