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Hike and Swim at Red Top Mountain

Acworth, Georgia

4.5/5
based on 10 reviews

Details

Distance

4.74 miles

Elevation Gain

472 ft

Route Type

Loop

Description

Added by Jeremy Cournyea

Head north on Homestead Trail and don't stop. The hidden swimming hole awaits!

The Georgia summer is no joke. Fortunately, Red Top Mountain's Homestead Trail hosts enough shade and swimming for all adventurers.

The 5.5 mile loop is located on a large peninsula stretching out into Lake Allatoona. Hikers enter a lush forest of wildlife and will encounter moderate elevation changes. Red Top Mountain gets it's name from the high concentration on iron ore in the soil. The natural rusting provides beautiful color contrast to photographers and enthusiasts.

The more daring can venture off trail at the northern most point of the loop and find a large swimming hole. Its a great place for a refreshing dip or picnic before completing the loop.

Park Map and Brochure

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Features

Chillin
Photography
Hiking
Beach
Forest
Lake
River
Scenic
Swimming Hole

Hike and Swim at Red Top Mountain Reviews

Great hike, wonderful swimming in warm water

It could just be because I'm a local, however Red Top is my go-to spot when I want to spend some time outdoors. There's plenty of walking/hiking trails, beach areas, marinas that allow you to rent boats/kayaks. There are also some great camping grounds and places to fish. It's a wonderful get away just minutes from I-75 that's perfect for the family, or just solo. Tips from a local: 1. Go on a weekday if you want less crowds. 2. If you don't want to go swimming, kayaking, or to rent a boat, try to find a parking area that doesn't require a fee. There's plenty of parking in the area! 3. Glade Marina is a great place to rent kayaks if you don't have any of your own. **Check Groupon to see if they have any deals before you go!**

I've never swam here but I do enjoy the hike. It's not too far from Kennesaw, where I live. So that's a plus. There are also great camping opportunities in this park.

Leave No Trace

Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

Nearby

Camp at Red Top Mountain State Park

Pine Mountain Loop

Etowah Indian Mounds Interpretive and River Walk Trails

Rope Mill Loop

Kayak to Lake Allatoona Waterfall

Paddle the Lower Etowah (Euharlee Road to 411)