A friend told me of a new place nearby that allowed horseback riders and off-road vehicles on alternating weekends-my buddies and I had never been there. We made some calls, got directions and soon found ourselves unloading our four-wheelers in the parking lot of Callalantee ATV and Campground. While the horse stalls are still standing, the popularity of ATVs and motorcycles has grown so much in recent years that the Callalantee trail system is now dedicated to full-time ORV use. In fact, you can ride your ATV or motorcycle there 24 hours a day, seven days a week if you like.
To the Cherokee, Callalantee means heaven-and the trails here most certainly are. Situated among the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains of Tennessee, Callalantee maintains more than 5000 acres of land and 130 miles of trails. The scenery can only be described as awesome, and there are enough trails to satisfy even the most discerning rider. Beginners will find plenty of places to test their skills, all while practicing in a safe environment. The park's landscape offers plenty of diversity with several breathtaking views. Camping facilities are modest, providing a relaxing place to rest your bones between rides. There is a bathhouse in which to change and a hose to wash all the mud off your quad; and the admission price of $11 is more than reasonable.
We caught up with Paul Brown, the land owner behind the trails. Brown purchased the parcel from Virginia Iron, Coal and Coke Company almost 30 years ago. Owner of one of Tennessee's premier public golf courses, Roan Valley Golf, and High Country Land Sales, and partner in Brown Brothers Construction, Brown is an accomplished businessman and a generous soul. A benevolent and unassuming man, he opened his land to the public simply because someone asked him to. He owns a Honda 4x4 but can't recall exactly what model it is or the last time he rode it. Ah, the troubles we all wished we had!
We could go on and on about the trails, but we'll let the photos do that for us. For more information about Callalantee, campsite availability or trail conditions, or to reserve one of the cabins or campers, contact Scott Keller or Minnie Griffith at 800/730-3459 or 423/727-8156. You can find them on the web at www.highcountryatv.com. Be sure to mention ATV Rider sent you!