Craving a break from the city and a breath of fresh mountain air? Because same. Pack your hiking boots, grab your besties and plan a hiking trip. Just an hour north of Atlanta, the North Georgia mountains are packed with some of the Southeast's most scenic, soul-filling trails. We pulled a list of our favorites, now all that's left is to hit the trails. 🌲 🥾
Top Hiking Trails in North Georgia
1. Mount Yonah Trail
A 4.4-mile round trip hike with sweeping views of the valley below. This moderate-to-difficult climb is a favorite for catching sunrise over the North Georgia mountains.
Location: GA-75, Cleveland, GA 30528
2. Black Rock Mountain State Park - Tennessee Rock Trail
This 2.2-mile loop in Georgia’s highest state park offers scenic views that stretch into North Carolina. A peaceful moderate hike perfect for leaf peeping or crisp morning walks.
Location: 3085 Black Rock Mountain Parkway, Mountain City, GA 30562
3. Toccoa Swinging Bridge Trail
A short and easy 0.5-mile hike through the forest that ends at a 270-foot suspension bridge over the Toccoa River. A fun, family-friendly stop with river views and photo ops.
Location: Hwy 60 Benton MacKaye Trail, Blue Ridge, GA 30513-8061
4. Bear Hair Gap Trail
This 4.1-mile moderate loop features forested paths, mountain ridge-lines, and a scenic overlook of Lake Trahlyta. Expect wildflowers, quiet woods, and serene lake views.
Location: 405 Vogel State Park Rd, Blairsville, GA 30512
5. Tallulah Gorge - Sliding Rock Trail
At 3.4 miles round trip, this rugged and difficult hike takes you deep into the gorge. Scenic views, steep staircases, and a natural rock slide make it a bucket list-worthy adventure. (Permit required)
Location: 338 Jane Hurt Yarn Drive, Tallulah Falls, Georgia
6. Brasstown Bald - Summit Trail
Georgia’s highest peak! This 1.1-mile paved trail may be short, but it’s a steady uphill climb to 360° mountain views from the observation deck.
Location: 2941 Highway Spur 180, Hiawassee, GA 30546
7. Rabun Bald - Bartram Trail
Climb 3 miles round trip to Georgia’s second-highest summit. The moderate-to-difficult hike ends with a stone tower and panoramic Blue Ridge Mountain views.
Location: Hale Ridge Rd, Dillard, GA 30537
8. Hemlock Falls Trail
An easy 1.9-mile out-and-back hike with a peaceful waterfall tucked deep in the forest. A perfect short trail for families or relaxed weekend strolls.
Location: 59 Andersonville Ln, Clarkesville, GA 30523
9. Wolf Laurel Top - Appalachian Trail
This 4.6-mile moderate hike follows a scenic ridge on the AT with wildflowers, rolling mountain views, and dreamy high-elevation breezes.
Location: Trailhead Parking, Cleveland, GA 30528
10. Desoto Falls Trail
A quick and easy 2-mile trail that leads you to two tranquil waterfalls tucked away in a lush, shaded forest. Ideal for casual hikers or midday nature breaks.
Location: US 129/19 N. Dahlonega GA 30533
