Hiking In The Blue Ridge Mountains

Blue Ridge, Georgia has more than 300 miles of hiking trails. These trails include some of the most legendary in the United States, including the Appalachian Trail and the Benton MacKaye Trail. The famous Appalachian Trail begins here, the Benton MacKaye winds throughout the county and the Aska Trails Area is great for novices and experts alike. Below are a few of the many trails in this area. (Most people hike on their own, but for guided hiking please contact 800-251-4800)

The Aska Trails
A hiking and biking trail system 17 miles in length and open year-round. From the start of Aska Road in Blue Ridge, go 4.4 miles to the trailhead for the Deep Gap portion of the Aska Trails in the Aska Adventure Area. Another trailhead is located 1.5 miles from Deep Gap on Shady Falls Road. Trails range from 1 to 5.5 miles and are open all year. Suitable for all levels of hikers, but portions of the trail can be very strenuous.

Ocoee Whitewater Center Trails
In addition to whitewater sports, the Ocoee Whitewater Center has a one-mile hiking trail which crosses a 330 foot suspension bridge and circles the center. The trail is entirely accessible for those who are physically challenged. There are 30 miles of trails for hikers and mountain bikers, and some are appropriate for family biking as well. From Blue Ridge, take GA 5 north to McCaysville, then turn left on Tennessee Highway 68. In Ducktown, take U.S. 64 west to the Ocoee Whitewater Center on the left.

Trails in the Cohuttas
The Cohutta Wilderness is a 34,102 acre wilderness area lying in Georgia and Tennessee within the Cohutta Mountains, part of the Blue Ridge Mountain chain. Elevations range from 950 feet in the Alaculsy Valley to 4,200 feet on Big Frog Mountain. Rugged terrain and flood-prone rivers make the Cohuttas especially challenging for hikers. Wilderness users should plan trips carefully and make sure that weather conditions will be favorable enough for a safe trip. Popular hikes include the Jacks River Trail, hike to Jacks River Falls and hike to Hemp Top. The Cohuttas can be accessed in Fannin County via Highway 2, off of Hwy 5 north between Blue Ridge and McCaysville.

Contact the Fannin County Chamber of Commerce for more information.