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Pine Mountain Loop

Cartersville, Georgia

4.6/5
based on 14 reviews

Details

Distance

2.11 miles

Elevation Gain

597 ft

Route Type

Loop

Description

Added by Nick Tort

Pine Mountain Loop is a great workout and takes in stunning views of Allatoona Lake from the summit of Pine Mountain.

The Pine Mountain Trail winds and climbs its way to awesome summit views, along massive granite outcrops and serene forest. Hike over wooden bridges, across sparkling streams, past misty waterfalls & rock outcroppings, varied forest, scenic overlooks, & leaping deer. This local gem is tucked away near Cartersville (under 40 miles from midtown Atlanta). 

Take the West Spur Trail out of the Pine Mountain Trail west trailhead, then turn right onto West Loop Trail at 0.2 mile. You will climb up a series of switchbacks before turning right onto East Pass Trail at one mile, followed by another right onto Summit Overlook Trail.

Enjoy views of Allatoona Lake and Atlanta from the summit. Pack a lunch and have a picnic or find some trees to sling a hammock – this trail is rated as one of the top place sin GA to enjoy from the sweet saddle of a hammock.

When you're ready to descend, stay on Summit Overlook Trail, then turn right onto East Pass Trail, which will lead you to another lookout point along the way. At 1.45 miles, turn right onto East Loop Trail, taking you across Cooper Branch Creek. You will gain some elevation again, providing more views of the lake, then intersect with East Pass Trail. Turn right here, and continue on to West Loop Trail, where you take another right. Finally, at 4.35 miles you will turn right onto West Spur Trail to return to the trailhead.

Many locals use this area for trail running, family outings and dog-walking. 

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Features

Photography
Hiking
Dog Friendly
Forest
Scenic

Pine Mountain Loop Reviews

This was a very fun weekend hike me and a buddy of mine did the spring of 2015. The hike had many switchbacks that made great views, and the elevation change let you experience both mountain tops and the lakes underneath. I highly recommend an overnight stay on the fairly decent campgrounds.

I love nearby Kennesaw Mountain but Pine Mountain in Cartersville has a beautifully nuanced feel to it that I can't fully describe. The hike up to David Archer Overlook isn't the easiest but it isn't incredibly difficult either. The overlook is well worth the miles tread. Especially if you go to catch the sun rising or setting. There are also a lot of large rocks and boulders at the summit which makes it a great place to sit and take in the panoramic view of nearby cities, far off mountains, colorful horizons, Lake Allatoona, and more.

Leave No Trace

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

Nearby

Hike and Swim at Red Top Mountain

Camp at Red Top Mountain State Park

Etowah Indian Mounds Interpretive and River Walk Trails

Paddle the Lower Etowah (Euharlee Road to 411)

Rope Mill Loop

Kayak to Lake Allatoona Waterfall