Copperhead Lodge and the Great American Biker Bash
GREAT AMERICAN BIKER BASH AT COPPERHEAD LODGE
by Paul Murray
I have been through Blairsville many times, having ridden the roads in the North Georgia mountains, but I have never had the pleasure of staying at the Copperhead Lodge, eight miles west of Blairsville. It is a biker-oriented lodging that offers cabin-style homes that you can purchase or rent, complete with bike garages. It also provides accommodations at the beautifully designed lodge itself that has a full restaurant and bar. It was specifically designed as a bike-friendly place to stay while you enjoy your ride through the mountains.
The second week of July, Born To Ride magazine promoted their first Bike Rally at Copperhead, The Great American Biker Bash. Owner, Michelle Evans and her husband Stuart, extended their gracious hospitality to bikers from all around the area for this event. During my stay at the lodge, I talked to many of the cabin owners and found out that it is Michelle’s outgoing personality that keeps them coming back and welcoming them to this riding community.
Friday evening kicked off at the Vendor Village with Ken Anderson, the Pro Rider of Atlanta, Lawbike.com, Frazier’s Harley-Davidson, Angel Productions, Hoof or Steel Cowboy, Skull Jewelry, Mama’s Motorcycle & Sewing, CD Welding, Georgia Riders, Vietnam Veterans of America, and Tri-County Shrine Club booths. That evening there was live music by Breaking Point an excellent band, with Tracie Griffith, as lead vocal, who was not only playing that night but also Saturday’s lead-in band for the “Cowboy,” Kid Rock Tribute band and after.
On Saturday, the Vendor Village became active, especially when the organized ride-in from Frazier’s Harley-Davidson of Buford came in after a rain shower. This also increased the entries in the 12-class ride-in bike show that had a payoff of $100 Best of Show, $50 Best Bagger and $50 to Best Paint. Breaking Point kicked off the afternoon’s entertainment, followed by a Veterans and 1st responder appreciation ceremony, hosted by yours truly. The colors were posted by the North Georgia Honor Guard, accompanied by the Blairsville American Legion Riders of Post 121 and the Blue Knights. A young lady named “Katie” with special needs, who was told she would never speak sang the National Anthem to the amazement of everyone who heard her. After the anthem, the colors were retired, ending the ceremony. Cowboy, the Nations #1 “Kid Rock” Tribute Band was the featured band, followed in the evening by Breaking Point. At dusk, there was an intermission to the band and thanks to the sponsors, Appalachian Construction & Blackwell’s Automotive, North Georgia Fireworks provided what was billed, the largest fireworks show in North Georgia this year, and they were absolutely right. It was one of the best displays I have ever seen.
Sunday morning was the “Blessing of the Bikes” by the Christian Motorcyclists Association and the last chance to pick up some goodies from the vendors.
For information about lodging, renting or purchase of cabins, contact the lodge at www.copperheadlodge.com or call 706-835-7433.