Kate Gates is one of the owners of Mulberry Gap in Ellijay, GA and it was the venue for this years Bikepacking Summit. Their property is located in Southern Appalachian Mountains of Northwest Georgia and is surrounded by National Forest, gravel roads, and cycling friendly trails. It wouldn't be a far stretch to say that their facility is an oasis for cyclist and outdoors people. A large part of what makes the venue special are it's proprietors. This is very much a family owned and operated business. Grandma's are LITERALLY in the kitchen whipping up some of the best homemade southern comfort food your hungry little heart desires. I would be remiss if I didn't mention the coffee and cold beer as both are a necessity to most. Their hospitality does not start or end with the food, but it's a good place to get your attention. The true magic of the place comes from the top down. Everyone who runs this facility loves what they do, they community the do it for, and the people on an individual level. Just add awesome cyclist and hot damn you've got yourself a party! Thank you Kate and Andrew Gates (and their families) for hosting such a great event and making each of us feel welcome in your home.