Hiking in North Georgia: The Top 5 Trails Revealed

Looking for the best hiking trails in Georgia? Then you’ve come to the right place. North Georgia has some of the best scenic hiking trails in the country. And with a wide variety of terrains, it offers something for everyone, from casual strolls to challenging workouts. But with so many great trails to choose from, it can be hard to know which of the best hikes in North Georgia to add to your vacation itinerary. That’s where we come in. We’ve found the area’s top five trails, representing the best of the best hiking in North Georgia. And stick around, because later, we’ll tell you where to stay to enjoy the rugged beauty of North Georgia all vacation long!

Introducing the Top 5 Best Hikes in North Georgia

North Georgia may not be the first place that comes to mind when you think of hiking trips. However, with lush forests, babbling streams, dramatic waterfalls, and sweeping mountain views, this region demands to be explored on foot. Of course, every journey begins with a single step. So, without further adieu, let’s discover the first trail on our list of the best hikes in North Georgia.

Best Hiking Trails in North Georgia: Amicalola Falls State Park

AT 729 feet, Amicalola Falls is the tallest waterfall in Georgia, and the tallest cascading waterfall east of the Mississippi. A popular tourist spot, the falls are beautiful any season, whether framed by snow, wildflowers, or lush greenery. However, Amicalola Falls is arguably at its most beautiful, and photogenic, when surrounded by the fiery reds, oranges, and yellows of autumn.

This North Georgia hiking trail consists of a two-trail loop. The one-mile hike to the top of the falls begins at the Amicaloloa Falls State Park and takes hikers through a hardwood forest, with stops along the way offering breathtaking views of the North Georgia mountains. A bridge crossing the upper portions of the waterfall is a popular spot to stop for a photo. The second trail begins with a set of stairs and landings descending alongside the falls, leveling out into a paved path that takes you to a reflecting pool. Stop here for a breather and/or a snack before making the point-six-mile hike back to the trailhead.

Best Hiking Trails in North Georgia: Raven Cliff Falls

Another great waterfall hike in North Georgia, Raven Cliff Falls is a highly unique “double cascade” formation flowing through a fissure in a granite cliff. It consists of three drops: a dramatic 60-foot drop, and two 20-foot drops into a deep pool and Dodd Creek, respectively. Dodd Creek, however, is an attraction in and of itself, being considered one of the most beautiful mountain streams in Georgia.

The falls are accessible via the Raven Cliff Trail, one of the best hiking trails in North Georgia. At five miles round trip, this North Georgia Hiking Trail is on the longer side. However, it’s considered a relatively easy hike until the last leg. It’s also one of the most scenic hikes in Georgia, taking hikers through a lush valley filled with wildflowers and hardwoods and past several clear pools and smaller waterfalls.

Best Hiking Trails in North Georgia: Blood Mountain Loop

Blood Mountain Loop is a six-mile, three-trail loop that takes you to the summit of Blood Mountain, the highest peak on Georgia’s stretch of the Appalachian Trail. It’s one of North Georgia’s most popular hikes, and it’s easy to see why. The summit of Blood Mountain offers incredible long-range views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Moreover, near the summit, you’ll find an historic Appalachian Trail shelter. Built in 1937, this stacked-stone structure has served as a resting place for Appalachian Trail hikers for almost 100 years.

In addition to the breathtaking views and historic shelter at the summit, Bood Mountain Loop rewards hikers with a diverse array of plant life and rock and water formations. From moss-covered boulders to babbling creeks to tunnels of gnarled rhododendron, to wildflower-filled valleys, mixed pine and deciduous forest, and more, there’s plenty to see on the way to and from the summit, too.

Best Hiking Trails in North Georgia: Tallulah Gorge

With vertiginous cliffs and deep waterfall-filled gullies, Tallulah Gorge is one of the most stunning canyons in the eastern U.S. The best hiking trail at this North Georgia state park takes you from top to bottom of the gorge. Starting at the rim, you’ll enjoy soaring views of the canyon before descending along a suspension bridge to the gorge floor, catching close-range views of Hurricane Falls along the way. From here, the trail climbs to the opposite rim before descending again to Bridal Veil Falls, a natural rock slide offering the only swimming in the park. It’s a tough scramble to Bridal Veil Falls, but the thrilling slide and refreshing water make it more than worth it.

In addition to hiking, Tallulah Gorge State Park offers a number of amenities and recreational opportunities to fill out your day. Inside the visitor center, you’ll find a gift shop with exhibits as well as souvenirs. Picnic areas are available near the visitor center, as well as a covered pavilion you can reserve for events. A range of events are also offered, including Junior Ranger Camps, astronomy nights, and more.

Best Hiking Trails in North Georgia: Cloudland Canyon

Cloudland Canyon offers some of the most scenic hiking in North Georgia. Starting from the rim of Lookout Mountain, a two-trail loop takes you to the bottom of the canyon to view Cloudland’s two spectacular waterfalls: Hemlock Falls and Cherokee Falls. The second leg of the hike, known as the West Rim Loop, takes you back up the other side of the canyon, ending in sweeping vistas from the opposite rim.

While this hiking trail is just two miles long out and back, it’s considered a fairly intense trek. With steep elevation changes, hundreds of stairs, and the danger of falling rocks, it’s not for the faint of heart. However, the scenic beauty of the waterfalls, clear pools of water, and vine- and moss-covered cliff faces is plenty rewarding.

Other Amazing Hikes in North Georgia

Didn’t see what you were looking for? We’ve only scratched the surface in terms of the best hikes in North Georgia. Here are some other amazing hiking locations that would make a great addition to any vacation itinerary.

• Chattahoochee National Forest
• Panther Creek Falls
• Springer Mountain
• Dally Gap
• Yonah Mountain
• Grassy Mountain
• Conasauga River Trail

Safety and Preparation

Hiking is a fun, healthy way to enjoy the great outdoors in North Georgia. However, preparation is key to making your hike safe and enjoyable. The first rule of hiking is to always let someone know where you’re going before you set out. Because even on a high-traffic, well-marked trail, it’s possible to get turned around. Also, be sure to bring plenty of water; dehydration can happen fast. Finally, exercise good trail etiquette, and respect the natural surroundings. This ensures you and everyone else using the trail has a good experience.

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Dunya Camp: Stay Natural

Why leave the beauty of nature on the trail? When you stay at Dunya Camp, nature doesn’t stop where the trail ends. This luxury glamping resort is perched high in the Blue Ridge foothills, among forty-two acres of thriving pine forest. Enjoy 360-degree mountain views, convenient access to the best hiking trails in North Georgia, and even on-site hiking trails.

Dunya Camp consists of six luxury, safari-style glamping tents that let you experience the joy of camping without sacrificing the creature comforts. Tents come in two varieties: the Sunset Tent and the Grand Sunset Tent. The Sunset Tent features a generous array of amenities, including a four-post king bed, a wood-burning fireplace, A/C and heating, a private bathroom, a soaking tub and separate shower, an outdoor kitchen, private deck, cedar hot tub, private fire pit, and more. The Grand Sunset Tent offers all the amenities of Sunset Tent plus a second deck, barrel sauna, and more expansive views. All tents sleep a maximum of two guests.

Explore availability at Dunya Camp now!

Dunya Camp’s two-person tents make it the perfect place for honeymooners on a budget. Check out these other great inexpensive honeymoon spots for nature enthusiasts!

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Nook Outdoors: All Trails Lead to Nook

Looking for more great outdoor accommodations? All trails lead to Nook Outdoors! We curate the country’s best boutique hotels and glamping sites, from New England escapes from the big city to outdoor getaways in Texas and beyond. Our hand-picked selection of outdoor accommodations make the great outdoors accessible to everyone, combining the splendor of nature with the comforts of home. Explore all our properties today!