Appalachian Trail

The Appalachian Trail in Georgia extends some 75 miles through the primitive areas of the Chattahoochee National Forest. Although rising at times to elevations of over 4,000 feet, the Trail is mostly along ridges at elevations of about 3,000 feet. It offers unlimited hiking adventure of exceptional challenge and variety.

Ascents and descents are sometimes steep, but are often rewarded by scenic vistas from rocky outcrops and open summits. A series of white blazes, trail marking, indicate the Appalachian Trail while blue blazes designate side trails and trails to water. Along the way, the hiker will find shelters for camping.

Ellijay, Ga is proud to now be an Appalachian Trail Community. The Trail's southern terminus is located atop remote Springer Mountain, near Forest Service Road 42 in Gilmer County. Since this area is difficult to reach by automobile, an 8.8 mile blu.e blazed "approach trail" begins at Amicalola Falls State Park on GA 52. Outstanding peaks along the Trail include Big Cedar Mountain, Blood Mountain, Cowrock Mountain, Rocky Mountain, and Tray.