My Favorite Places to Hike/Visit in North Georgia
1. Blood Mountain is an AT classic, and a pretty challenging hike with regard to elevation. This is not for very small children who likely will tucker out on the way up. If you don't mind carrying Junior, feel free to take him with you! UNREAL views at the top -- one of if not the best view on the entire AT (but be sure to press ALL the WAY past the shelter and climb the rock just past it-- that is the real summit).
2. Preacher Rock at Woody Gap - Go up hwy 60 to where the AT crosses the road and park on the right - take the trail that connects to the parking lot (on the east side of the road). Usually takes about 40 minutes or so to get to the rock. Again, unreal views on a HUGE rock (be sure to go to the BIG rock. There are some smaller rocks with great views, but nothing like from the BIG rock -- and you can't miss it.
3. Raven Cliff Falls - A fantastic 2 mi hike (4 mi. round trip) along a beautiful creek to the falls (with several smaller waterfalls along the way). Be sure to climb up into the craggy rock area to get a view of the tall falls. You can climb all the way up, but is a bit tricky/potentially dangerous on top (unless you are very sure footed).
4. Amicalola Falls - I love AF not so much for the hiking (although the entry trail for the AT trial-head begins here), but the sheer beauty of the park, falls and views. Be sure to visit the Lodge and take in the view from the lobby or back deck. FYI: This is where I do the bulk of my sermon prep each week. So if you are there on a Friday (sometimes Thurs.), come on by and say hello!
Of course there are countless other hiking opportunities. If you have a favorite, please let me know!
