The area around North Georgia is characterized by mountains and hills that since before the arrival of the Europeans have been continuously inhabited by native tribes, most notably the Cherokee people. The area is absolutely stunning with lush green vegetation and gorgeous mountain passes that have made North Georgia a premier hiking and trekking place in the state. The area is also historically important as several Civil War battles were fought there, such as the Battle of Lookout Mountain. This day tourism supports the local economy with people coming from all over to hike the mountains and trek through a section of Appalachia. If you’re looking for a new place to hike, check out these hiking and trekking spots in North Georgia.
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1. Appalachian Trail
Hiking the Appalachian Trail in Georgia is a long journey. Of course, it is doable if you are committed to it but there is also the option of exploring it little by little. The Appalachian Trail provides amazing chances for not only hiking but camping and backpacking through the woods as well. The sights around the hills and mountains of Appalachia are truly a sight to behold, with Amicalola Waterfalls and Springer Mountain being two popular landmarks.
Appalachian Trail
Address: Hiawassee, GA 30546, United States
Website: Appalachian Trail
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
Price: Free
2. Tallulah Gorge State Park
Tallulah Gorge State Park is a pretty recent park in some ways having only been established in 1993 despite the fact that talks of opening a park here had been going on since at least 1905. The park is nearby Tallulah Falls which is something you should definitely check out while you’re here as well as the Tallulah Gorge itself. The park is centered around the massive gorge which is a 1,000-foot (300 m) deep gorge with the Tallulah River flowing below it. Hike through the mountains or spend a day fishing and canoeing by the river.
Tallulah Gorge State Park
Address: 338 Jane Hurt Yarn Rd, Tallulah Falls, GA 30573, United States
Website: Tallulah Gorge State Park
Opening hours: 8am - 5pm (daily)
Price: 5 USD
3. Emery Creek Trail
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
Chase waterfalls in the northern part of the state at Emery Creek Trail. Nestled in the secluded little area the scenic trail along here is beautiful during the summer months (just watch out for mosquitos!) The hike crosses creeks and ravines and even when the flow is normal, you should be aware that getting a little bit wet is a strong likelihood. The lush forest is filled with beautiful flowers and mossy trees that’ll make it feel like you’re a character in a fairytale.
Emery Creek Trail
Address: Emery Creek Trail, Chatsworth, GA 30705, United States
Website: Emery Creek Trail
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
Price: Free
4. Blood Mountain Loop
The Blood Mountain Loop is about 6 miles (10 kilometers) worth of trail going around Blood Mountain. The mountain itself is located in the Appalachian part of North Georgia and is one of the most popular hiking trails around the state. The trails that go through the mountain are clearly marked and frequently trafficked. Not to mention, there are the wild ferns that grow alongside the paths area which beautiful and lush in the summer months and colorful during the fall. Make sure to bring your camera with you as the summit provides some absolutely breathtaking views.
Blood Mountain Loop
Address: Georgia 30512, USA
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
Price: Free
5. Cloudland Canyon State Park
Cloudland Canyon State Park is located on the western edge of the Lookout Mountain and has tons of beauty just waiting for you to discover it. The park is pretty diverse in terms of different things you can see here, from large cliffs, cascading waterfalls and large canyons, just to name a few of the sights. Cloudland Canyon State Park is a pretty easy trek and the park features tons of other great activities as well like horseback riding, fishing, and even camping.
Cloudland Canyon State Park
Address: 122 Cloudland Canyon Park Rd, Rising Fawn, GA 30738, United States
Website: Cloudland Canyon State Park
Opening hours: 7am - 10pm (daily)
Price: Free
6. Raven Cliff Trail
Hiking through Raven Cliff Trail is like an experience you won’t find anywhere else. The trail is beautiful and covered in forests with green moss and towering trees as well as large rocky cliffs with waterfalls. The natural beauty here is abundant and the path is only moderately difficult and is also pet-friendly. The trail is packed with wildflowers and gorgeous scenery and there are even a few camping spots and watering holes to cool off.
Raven Cliff Trail
Address: 3000 Richard B Russell Scenic Hwy, Helen, GA 30545, United States
Website: Raven Cliff Trail
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
Price: 5 USD
7. Cohutta Wilderness
Located in the Chattahoochee National Forest, the Cohutta Wilderness was first designated as a park in 1975 then expanded again about a decade later. The area is absolutely huge with 35,268 acres (142.72 square kilometers) located in the Georgia area of the park. That being said, it is the largest park in the state and is one of the most frequented by tourists as well with over 60,000 people visiting it annually. Hiking here is a great option but be aware of your limits when you come as the park has had to put some restrictions on people overusing certain aspects of the park.
Cohutta Wilderness
Address: 2694 Old Hwy 2, Cisco, GA 30708, United States
Website: Cohutta Wilderness
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
Price: Free
8. Panther Creek Falls Trail
Panther Creek Falls Trail is one of the more challenging trails around North Georgia and although it is pet-friendly, it may also prove a little difficult for some dogs as well. The trails span about 7 miles (11 kilometers) round trip and as the name would suggest, there are waterfalls here that are perennial. The trail is taken care of by the Forest Service which maintains paths and walkways.
Panther Creek Falls Trail
Address: NF-65, Carson, WA 98610, United States
Website: Panther Creek Falls Trail
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
9. Bear Creek Trail
Bear Creek Trail covers over 6 miles (5 kilometers) that is only of moderate difficulty, meaning it is a good option for those who have some experience as well as beginners. The area is great for a hike as well as some other activities like mountain biking or even just having a relaxing picnic. The trails are clearly marked and it is also dog-friendly.
Bear Creek Trail
Address: 241 Bear Creek Camp Rd, Ellijay, GA 30540, United States
Website: Bear Creek Trail
Opening hours: 24 hours(daily)
Price: Free
10. Conasauga River Trail
The Conasauga River Trail is a long and pretty difficult trail to hike on so if you’re a beginner, maybe steer clear of this one first. The path is over 11 miles (17 kilometers) but is definitely one of the most beautiful hiking paths in the sate with gorgeous mossy covered rocks and streams as well as large old trees surrounding the paths. The trail is pretty remote and some river streams crossings are present so make sure you’re prepared to possibly get a little wet. The path is suitable for dogs as well as other activities like camping and fishing.
Conasauga River Trail
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
Price: Free
Hiking in Georgia
North Georgia has the benefit of being so immersed in nature that the green and lush beauty of the forests make any hike in the wilderness a special one. Streams, waterfalls, and mountains are ubiquitous around here and no matter where you decide to trek next, you won’t leave feeling like you didn’t just experience something special.
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