Nature lovers, rejoice! Crisp mountain air and winding forest paths are within reach. If you’re ready to recharge, a walk along these North Georgia hiking trails is just the thing you need.
Whether you’re in search of solitude in the serene natural landscape or an outdoorsy family adventure away from digital screens, the hikes below are sure to delight. Pristine rushing waterfalls, lush green forests and sweeping mountain top views are just a few of the natural gems along the North Georgia hiking trails we’ll be exploring together.
Allow us to be your trail guide as we walk down the path of nine captivating North Georgia hiking trails. Lace up your trail shoes and follow along!
Easy Hiking Trails in North Georgia
Who says hiking has to be an all-day activity? If you’re in the mood for a leisurely trail experience, consider these North Georgia hiking spots.
Minnehaha Trail
There’s something magnetic about the roar of a rushing waterfall. You’ll hear the sound shortly after you begin your journey along Minnehaha Trail. As you continue, the verdant forest parts into an open clearing.
This is where you can first see the rushing waters of Minnehaha Falls. The angled rocks give the appearance of a natural staircase as water rushes down them. At just .4 miles round trip, this is one of the best hiking trails in North Georgia for anyone who is pressed for time.
Distance: 0.4 miles
Difficulty: Easy
Coleman River Trail
This kid-friendly trail gives you natural beauty from start to finish. But the best part is in store at the end of the trail, where you’ll come upon the clear waters and mossy rocks of the river. You can stand along the banks, take a dip in the refreshing pools or simply sit and enjoy the stillness of this lightly trafficked trail.
Oh, make sure you pack your fly rod, as this North Georgia mountains hiking trail provides access to fishing opportunities along the Coleman River for those who enjoy fly fishing for native brook and rainbow trout.
Distance: 1.6 miles
Difficulty: Easy
Hemlock Falls Trail
Hemlock Falls Trail is next on our list of hiking recommendations. The trail begins across from Moccasin Creek State Park and follows an old railroad bed. On clear days, the sun pierces through the trees to create a glorious, sun-dappled effect.
Cross a wooden bridge as the sound of the waterfall steadily grows. Continue upwards until reaching the picturesque Hemlock Falls. Like the dog-friendly hotels in the area, this dog-friendly trail makes traveling with four-legged family members easy.
Distance: 2 miles
Difficulty: Easy
Moderate Hiking Trails in North Georgia
Locals and visitors can both confirm—hiking in North Georgia in any season is a treat! Here are three pretty paths that pose a bit of a challenge.
Angel Falls
The charming town of Lakemont is packed with historical significance and beautiful hiking trails. The Angel Falls hike takes you along the bubbling waters of Joe Creek as you ascend towards the main attraction.
You’ll cross bridges and move under the canopy of old-growth trees before reaching the picturesque waterfall. The last quarter mile of this hike is a steep trek to the top, earning it a spot in our moderate North Georgia mountains hiking column.
Distance: 1.75
Difficulty: Moderate
Chattooga River Trail
When you gaze upon the Chattooga River, you’ll understand why it is designated as a National Wild and Scenic River. The river reaches from North Carolina to Georgia, and there are plenty of trails that allow hikers to view the rushing waters. In particular, this hike begins at the intersection of US 76 and the Chattooga River and continues north along the west bank of the river.
Make sure you wear proper hiking attire for this trek. Steep grades add a challenge to this outdoor expedition.
Distance: 19.1 miles
Difficulty: Moderate
Rabun Bald Trail
To truly get away from it all, direct your steps upward for panoramic views from all sides. This trail provides a spectacular view of the tri-state area from an observation deck atop Rabun Bald, Georgia’s second-highest point. Though the path is extremely steep, switchbacks allow hikers to ascend at a steady pace.
Once you reach the summit, your efforts will be well rewarded. The deck is constructed from remnants of an old fire tower built in the 1930s. One of Georgia’s rarest birds, the raven, is frequently sighted.
Distance: 3 miles
Difficulty: Moderate
Difficult Hiking Trails in North Georgia
Are you feeling adventurous? The invigorating North Georgia landscape has that effect. Intrepid hikers are welcome to roam the sprawling forests of this treasured region.
Panther Creek Falls
Are you sensing the waterfall theme on this list of trails for hiking in North Georgia? Panther Creek Falls is one of the most popular waterfall hiking trails in Northern Georgia. And it’s no surprise considering the stunning view of this multilevel waterfall.
To reach it, you’ll cross a bridge over a bubbling creek, navigate some rocky outcrops and move deep into the forests before reaching your end destination. Arriving at the falls is the highlight of the hike. You can perch yourself on one of the massive boulders as you take in the surroundings.
Distance: 7 miles
Difficulty: Hard
Tallulah Gorge State Park
Tallulah Gorge is two miles long and nearly 1,000 feet deep. It’s home to one of the best lakes in Georgia and several hiking opportunities.
Visitors can hike rim trails to several overlooks, or they can obtain a permit to hike the awe-inspiring Sliding Rock Trail. Travel deep within the walls of the gorge for an immersive experience in the park. When you reach the floor of the gorge, you’ll be greeted with a turquoise pool that’s open for swimming!
We hope you’re not afraid of heights! Sliding Rock Trail features a suspended bridge that sways 80 feet above the rocky terrain below. But you’ll want to focus your attention on the spectacular views of the river and waterfalls that you can catch from the bridge.
Distance: 3.4 miles
Difficulty: Hard
Bartram Trail
Named after eighteenth-century explorer and naturalist William Bartram, Bartram Trail unlocks the beauty of Georgia’s forest for sturdy hikers. The hike follows the path that William Bartram once traversed, spanning 35 miles from the North Georgia border to The Chattooga River.
For adventurers in search of a multiple-day trek, this hike is a rewarding one. Of course, you don’t have to explore the trail from start to finish to take in the scenic beauty. Since Bartram Trail intersects with other hikes, you can hop onto a shorter trail for a less lengthy hike.
Distance: 70 miles
Difficulty: Hard
Maximize Your Mountain Adventure
Extend your stay in North Georgia and soak in all this charming area has to offer. Lake Rabun Hotel & Restaurant offers the perfect all-season getaway that combines comfort and charm with outdoor adventure.
The historic boutique hotel features rustic, inviting rooms that are the perfect place to rest after an eventful day in nature. Of particular note is the fact that these trails have even greater views during the Winter months due to the loss of the leaves. Take advantage of the hotel’s off-season rates by booking directly with them.
Warm front desk staff can set up water sport activities, horseback riding, zip-lining, fishing, and more for you to enjoy during your stay. With pet-friendly lodging and so many outdoor activities, there’s no better place to stay for your North Georgia getaway.
Book your reservation by calling the Lake Rabun Hotel & Restaurant at 1-800-398-5134.
