Added by Zachary Ganster
Distance: 1.3 mile out-and-back hike. Elevation Gain: 180 feet. Explore this hidden gem full of ponds, rare foliage, and dazzling granite formations. 30 miles outside Atlanta.
The trail begins right off Klondike Road by the parking lot with restrooms, which is almost impossible to miss. Upon arriving, you begin a steady climb along the barren rock face. At this point, keep an eye out for the prominent cairns to guide you up and down the mountain.
The trail itself is only 1.3 miles, but I would encourage you to explore the surrounding area once you reach the peak. At the peak, you are met with 360 degree views, and, if you're lucky, ponds in the crevices of the granite. I would recommend going after a good rainfall.
This trip is perfect if you are in the Atlanta area and only have half of a day to explore something nearby. You will feel like you are in an entirely different world!
Pack List
- Day pack
- Water
- Hiking boots
- Camera
Reviews
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6 months ago
So Cool
This place is so cool. We parked at the main welcome center and walked on the boardwalk to the beginning of the trail. First we walked through a pine forest, typical of Georgia, then hit the boardwalk which felt more like South Georgia or Florida, and then the rock walk to the top which felt like Stone Mountain (and was totally gorgeous with an awesome view!) We kept walking around just to see what else was there and we found the lake there which was so peaceful, we didn't see anyone else there that day! After the lake we kept walking and found ourselves in sand and saw a few cacti, there were a few blue marks to follow but we were just sort of wandering. We ended up in a field that led us back to the road. Overall a really cool and diverse place! Pretty easy to hike too!
11 months ago
Fun, Dog Friendly Hike
Often very few people there. It's a nice quick hike you can do in an hour or so. There's a nice little pond for dogs to play in as well.
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It was short and sweet. clean, not too many people when I went
Super Chill Hike
This place is definitely dog friendly. Every time I go, there seems to be dogs everywhere. Humans, too. My favorite parts of the trail is the 360 view at the top of the mountain as well as the small ponds and puddles everywhere in the stone. There was one pond/puddle on top of the mountain where someone had put a spiral in it made of small rocks. It was pretty neat. Maybe it's still there.
over 1 year ago
Awesome Day
We started with the wildlife rescue center and then hiked the mountain. It was a beautiful day. Great park. Beautiful view
over 1 year ago
Very Dog Friendly!
Took my dog and fiancée on a day hike here on Valentine's Day. We saw numerous dogs, and even a dog walking club. It was a very nice experience and an easy hike to the top.
over 1 year ago
Additional Parking
If you want to start climbing up granite straight away, continue past the main visitor welcome center entrance to the AWARE Animal Wild Rescue Center at 4158 Klondike Rd, Lithonia, GA 30038. There is parking and a trailhead there for hikers as well as bathrooms.
over 1 year ago
Awesome cousin of Stone Mountain
I was surprised to find this hike listed on here- this was my favorite place to go with my grandparents growing up, however I'm sure it has changed quite a bit since then. My grandmother even spread some of her brothers ashes here a very long time ago, he loved this place so much. This really is a gorgeous mountain and I loved exploring all the rock formations (some in the shape of seats!), crazy flowers growing in the granite cracks, and the tide-pool looking holes of water from lightning strikes. I can see why this is thought of as a cousin to Stone Mountain, although in my opinion definitely more unique and secluded than touristy Stone Mountain.
Activities:
Hiking
Skill Level:
Beginner
Season:
Year Round
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