Lakeside Trails in Troup County is in the Center of the Valley

Lakeside trails at West Point Lake have been a backup trail for many mountain bikers for a number of years. While locals frequent the trail system, you are less likely to see cyclists from the Atlanta and Columbus areas. The property is managed by the Army Corp of Engineers and is located adjacent to the Westpoint Dam.

I visited on a Friday in May of 2022 to see what kind of shape the trails were in and to catch a few minutes kayaking as well. The plan was to hit a local brewery for lunch and then head home afterwards. The trail is easy to find and has ample parking and restrooms. Websites like mtbproject.com and trailforks.com all include information about Lakeside Trails as well directions to the trail head.

Like many other times, I found myself to be the only cyclist on the trail system on a Friday morning. I expect one sees more users on the weekend but the remoteness of the trail system provides for a great experience in the woods free from congestion. Lakeside trails is a great example of an authentic Georgia back country mountain biking experience with great views of the lake and a number of rooty sections through pine forests. There had been a recent timber cut and prescribed burning when I visited. However, local advocates with MTB Atlanta had been hard at work clearing the trails of debris and repairing any issues associated with the timber cut.

I’d rate the trail to be a green (easiest) to blue (intermediate) regarding difficulty. There are currently 8+ miles of trail available with plans underway to rework the Hack & Yack section of the trail. The Lakeside Trails are located at Resource Management Rd, West Point, GA 31833. Lakeside trails is part of the MTB Atlanta network of trails in the Chatt Valley.

The Lakeside trail system is 45 minutes South of Brown’s Mill trails in Newnan and 40 minutes north of Standing Boy trails in Columbus. All three trail systems are minutes from I-85. Westpoint Lake also offers camping and paddling. A visit to Lakeside, Brown’s Mill and Standing Boy would definitely make for a great weekend trip.

It’s difficult to visit Lakeside without visiting Lagrange as well. I’ve found a new favorite spot for lunch recommended by locals. Beacon Brewing is near the Lagrange College Campus and offers both inside and outside dining. From burgers to smoked whole chicken wings and ale, I have not had a bad experience at Beacon. It’s worth a look if you’re in the area. When in town be sure to stop by Golden’s Bike Shop. Rick and his staff are eager to take care of both locals and visitors to Lagrange and Troup County.