The South is known for its cuisine that sticks to your ribs, which is probably why Southern states are near the top of the obesity lists. But we found three cardiac worthy dishes located near lung-busting trail systems, so you can hike, run, or bike before you indulge.
EAT HARD: Motor Burger, White Spot Restaurant, Charlottesville, Va.
This is your standard double cheese- burger with lettuce, tomato, onion, pickle, topped with a fried egg and a stack of ham. Because breakfast and lunch are better together.
PLAY HARD: Within a stone’s throw of the White Spot is Observatory Hill, a 12-mile collection of rocky singletrack on the University of Virginia’s campus known for rock gardens and short, but steep climbs. Ride the six-mile loop that makes up the O-Hill Meltdown race course, which combines the toughest climbs with the best descents on the hill.
EAT HARD: Midnight Train, Gladys Knight and Ron Winans’ Chicken and Waffles, Atlanta, Ga.
The signature dish Midnight Train includes four jumbo chicken wings and a massive waffle.
PLAY HARD: The Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area is a collection of parks scattered throughout the greater Atlanta area, offering quick access to in-town trail systems. Inside the perimeter, run the East Palisades Trail, a 4.5-mile path that follows the bluffs along the Chattahoochee River offering big time views of the ‘Hooch.
EAT HARD: Chili Dog, Litton’s, Knoxville, Tenn.
A quarter pound all beef dog topped with slaw, onions, and a plate of homemade chili. Seriously. You can’t even see the dog beneath the chili.
PLAY HARD: Run or bike the brand new trail system at Knoxville’s William Hastie Natural Area. Nearly five miles of rolling singletrack were built last winter by the Appalachian Mountain Bike Club on this 75-acre park in South Knoxville. Expect bermy turns and a decent climb up the aptly-named Hard Labor Trail.
