Big Rock, Gahuti, Goldmine Creek, Lake

Fort Mountain rises prominently from the plateau to the West, serving as the start of the Blue Ridge Mountain range in Georgia. The Gahuti Backcountry Trail circumnavigates the mountain, with several overlooks with views in all directions.  At 8.1 miles, this hike is moderately difficult, but can be done by most in a half-day.   The Gahuti Trailhead is at the parking lot for the Cool Springs Ov...

Fort Mountain State Park is filled with horse trails, biking trails, walking trails, camping sites, and a lake. Once you arrive at the park you pay a $5 entrance fee and will receive a park map. While visiting I walked the West Overlook Trail and came back down the CCC Tower Trail. This is a 1 mile trail great for anyone of all ages. You start off at 2,650 ft. of elevation and gain 200 ft. of e...

The hike to the five waterfalls on the Emery Creek trail is one of the most spectacular hikes in Georgia. This trail is moderate in climb, yet secluded in the Cohutta Wilderness and challenging enough to keep crowds away. Two things to note about this trail: it is wet (there are 20 creek crossings), and it can be tricky to navigate if you do not stick to a few simple tips. The first tip for th...

Bear Creek is a southern favorite amongst the mountain biking community. There are many variations and add-ons to make this ride more challenging, but the classic up and back from the parking lot at the base of Bear Creek is one of the most rewarding and adrenaline pumping runs you will find in North Georgia.From the trailhead you will start the long (but manageable) 5 mile climb up into the m...

Just North of Carters Lake lies one of its tributaries, Tails Creek.  The Tumbling Waters Trail follows along a scenic stretch of this creek as it cascades its way towards the lake.  This trail is moderately trafficked and considered a local favorite. The Tumbling Waters trailhead also contains a boat ramp for recreational use.  A daily fee of $3 is required to use these facilities and the mone...

Jacks River Falls is one of Georgia's most impressive waterfalls.  Containing several cascades that combine to an 80 foot waterfall, this destination provides spectacular views and refreshing pools to take a dip in.  You can approach the falls from either Jacks River Falls trail or the Beech Bottom trail, but in this article I will outline only the Beech Bottom trail.The Beech Bottom trail star...