Missed Opportunities (So far)

During the ten years of building the Silver Comet Trail, most all of my vacations involved riding established trails in other states to assess design details and the amenities along the trail that we could incorporate into the Comet. While planning these trips, I would scour the internet for lodging, restaurants, and supplies near the chosen trail. My trip prep included calling my riding buddies for insider information on the condition of the trail and their opinion regarding accommodations and restaurants I was considering. I wanted to visit the best every trail had to offer so I could help make the Silver Comet the ultimate trail experience for everyone who would use it.

On these reconnaissance trips, I stayed in adorable B&B’s, walked through thriving little towns, and ate at countless Ma & Pa restaurants. I envisioned that entrepreneurism would create similar places along the Silver Comet, but, it hasn’t happened... yet!

Why isn’t there a nice, country lodge west of Rockmart? I suggest west of Rockmart since Atlanta riders seeking a weekend getaway would account for a sizable percentage of patrons. The lodge needs to be far enough away from Atlanta to warrant an overnight stay. Social media is forever abuzz with people asking where do I stay and where do I eat. A nice lodge would be the recommended spot rather than chain motels blocks away from the trail. When we were building the Comet, I saw farm houses on acreage that begged to become an inn for trail travelers. A renovated farm house with add-on potential would be perfect. A big screened porch with tables for breakfast and rocking chairs to watch fellow bikers pass or just to enjoy the quietness of the country setting. I think the lodge would have to be built and managed to Atlanta standards to appeal to patrons from the city. There would be a bonfire on selected nights. I pictured a bike shop in the basement that would rent and service bikes. Guests could ride east one day and west the next.

Why isn’t there a brewery-beer garden across from the depot in downtown Cedartown? It would immediately become a destination along the trail. The facility could serve a mean hamburger or tasty wings along with good brew. It would encourage more riders to climb Trash Mountain at mile 46.

I am disappointed that entrepreneurism hasn’t provided quality amenities along the Comet to give riders scouring the internet better choices for lodging and eateries. I see people planning trips all the time asking locals on Facebook, “Where do I stay, eat, park and more?” They are all looking for the Silver Comet lodge and the Cedartown beer garden. Lol!

Am I going to have to come out of retirement to develop the lodge or the brewery? I’m willing to download ideas to someone younger, with a vision but I think my days of being an entrepreneur have passed.