Hiking and Camping in GA

**BeardedHanger** · 02-25-2015, 16:35

My wife and I am looking for suggestions for places to backpack and camp in GA during the week of March 9th-13th. We would like a scenic sort of trail with some elevation. We live in FL and it is supposed to be in the mid 80's during that week. I would like cooler temps. It would probably be a three day back country adventure. Any suggestions would be appreciated. Thanks in advance.

**joshcrsn** · 02-25-2015, 16:50

IF you don't need a "loop" trail or an "out and back" type, (meaning you will need to arrange a ride back to your car) pick any section of the AT (between road crossings) that fits your miles-per-day and GO! We just did Neal's Gap to Unicoi Gap a few weeks ago (about 20 miles total). There is a nice shelter (Blue Mountain Shelter) about 2.5 miles shy of Unicoi Gap that has plenty of places to hang a hammock and an AMAZING morning view to wake up to in the morning.

**DanglingModifier** · 02-25-2015, 17:37

The upside to the AT approach josh outlined is that there are plenty of opportunities to arrange shuttle service to/from the trailhead of your choice. There will also be quite a bit of company on the trail as thru hikers will be starting around then. Shelters will be occupied and festive. The company could be considered a positive or a negative depending on your preferences.

It also won't be in the 80s, that's for sure. Pack for cold temps.

**dudeman_atl** · 02-25-2015, 17:42

atko is happening March 6-8 at Amicolola Falls so you would be in the thick of the AT bubble on March 9th or so. (www.atko.info for schedule)

That could be awesome or very irritating depending on what you are into.
I very much enjoyed our hike at Ellicott Rock in the Chattooga River gorge if you want to avoid the AT kickoff events and like to fish.

Also, http://www.bmta.org may be interesting for you.

**MoonBear** · 02-26-2015, 07:24

http://www.georgiatrails.com/gt/georgia_hikes

**Ashe** · 02-26-2015, 22:12

Cohutta has lots of great hiking

**skater** · 03-01-2015, 23:17

Look into Vogel State Park and Coosa Backcountry Trail. Warning: This is a challenging trail with plenty of elevation. You can connect to Duncan Ridge Trail or the AT to make a trip of pretty much any desired length, plus you can keep your car at the park. This will be far less crowded than the AT for the time you have in mind, if you are looking to get away from the crowds. If you are looking for company, Neel Gap to Unicoi Gap has some of the best views, IMO, and will have plenty of fellow hikers.

**BeardedHanger** · 03-03-2015, 20:38

Thanks everybody for the suggestions and advice. The weather should be cooler than I initially thought so we will be staying in our neck of the woods for a three day hike. Thanks again.