Outdoor recreation is one of main attractions of this area and with the leaf season at or near it’s peak the weekend of the race,  make plans to take in the beauty of the fall colors.  Area state parks at Tallulah Gorge, Black Rock Mountain, Unicoi and Smithgall Woods are close by and offer activities for all ages including miles of biking and hiking trails, lodging for retreats, camping, trout fishing and breathtaking waterfalls. Pack some snacks or pick up  lunch at an area restaurant and venture out to these hiking trails and waterfalls  Dukes Creek Falls, Minnehaha Falls,  and Panther Creek Falls.