I rode 28+ miles today. I went from the Eubanks Welcome Center in Piedmont to the Esom Hill, GA Trailhead and back. There was some work still going on, but the trail was passable. From Piedmont to the Georgia line is just about all uphill. It's not a very steep grade, but after several miles it feels steeper than it is. On the way back though, you can make very good time.