If you are looking for an interesting place to go on your next Georgia motorcycle tour, don’t miss Mountain Crossings at the Walasi-Yi Interpretive Center. The Walasi-Yi Center sits in Neel’s Gap on Highway 129 North of Cleveland. The unusual name comes from the Cherokee word for “place of the Great Frog” which is what they called Neel’s Gap. (Incidentally, “Neel’s Gap” was named after W.R. Neel, who was the chief engineer on the American Scenic Highway.) The Walasi-Yi Center was finished in 1937 by the Civilian Conservation Corp., and it was intended to be an Inn and Tea Room. The building is constructed of stone, and definitely looks like a sturdy CCC project. The Appalachian Trail, which was also finished in 1937, passes through the Center. It is the only place in the over 2100 mile trail that it passes through a man-made building.
Reasons to Visit
1. Beautiful Spot
The Walasi-Yi Center simply sits in a beautiful spot. If you click on the map below and select Satellite View, you will see that it is deep in the middle of a forest. If you sit outside on the patio, you have a wonderful view. Sometimes when the weather is nice, they will set up a grill outside and you can sit there and have a meal while you enjoy the view.
2. Interesting Store
Mountains Crossings is a serious hikers’ store. It is the first stop after several days in the woods for the thru-hikers who start the Appalachian Trail at Springer Mountain. Consequently, they have serious camping equipment and every thing you need to spend weeks in the woods. They also have interesting books, gifts, apparel and snacks.
3. In the Middle of the Best Roads
The Walasi-Yi Center is in the middle of some of the best riding roads in North Georgia. Highway 129 is a blast - a series of switchbacks going up Blood Mountain. I learned how serious this road was when I drove it with my pregnant wife who had morning sickness! (Bad judgment on my part.) Highway 180 that crosses Hwy. 129 north of the Center is extremely challenging.
4. Thru-Hikers
During the Spring, you will often see thru-hikers from the Appalachian Trail. I am always fascinated by the idea of taking six months off to go camping. Also, after you have spent a week or so in the woods, you have a little different look and outlook. I like being around thru-hikers.
5. Good Starting Point for Hikes
One of my favorite things was to ride my motorcycle and then stop and go hiking. The Walasi-Yi Center sits between two of my favorite hikes. To the West is Blood Mountain, a good hike with a spectacular view. But is is sometimes a little crowded. To the East is my favorite hike - Levelland Mountain. It is not too difficult and it rewards you with the feeling that you are really out in the middle of nowhere. If you intend to hike, then please park about a half-mile north of the Center, because the parking at the Center is limited.So are you with me here? Beautiful spot - historic building - cool gear - great roads - interesting hikers. Go check it out.
