Staff Report
The 21st annual Bicycle Ride Across Tennessee, known by the acronym BRAT, starts Sunday at Harrison Bay State Park. The weeklong outing, which riders can complete in whole or in part, will circle through Fall Creek Falls, Athens, Fort Loudon and Hiwassee before returning to Harrison Bay on Sept. 18.
According to ride director Gary Patterson, the terrain on this year’s route will vary greatly each day, with hills, river valleys and even some flat terrain but generally more mountainous than past years’ rides.
Camping is provided at each stopping point, although other arrangements may be made by each cyclist.
A portion of proceeds will benefit the Cumberland Trail Conference, a nonprofit organization dedicated to the creation and preservation of Cumberland Trail State Park. Other sponsors are Tennessee State Parks and Tennessee Department of Conservation.
The weekly fee is $300, which includes many meals. For more information, e-mail GaryWPatterson@tn.gov or visit www.state.tn.us/environment/parks/BRAT.
BRAT ROUTE
n Sunday: Harrison Bay to Fall Creek Falls (75 miles)
n Monday: Fall Creek Falls day loop (30 or 60 miles)
n Tuesday: Fall Creek Falls to Athens (60 miles)
n Wednesday: Athens to Fort Loudon State Park (52 miles)
n Thursday: Fort Loudon State Park to Hiwassee River (55 miles)
n Sept. 17: Hiwassee loop (several distance choices)
n Sept. 18: Hiwassee to Harrison Bay (48 miles)