Good getaway hike in NE GA?

[john30563]

I am sort of new to hiking. I have quite a few 7 to 10 mile day hikes under my belt and now I want to do an overnight in the fall. I need a good 16 to 20 mile hike in NE Georgia. I have seen so many that might qualify. Which one do you guys recommend, and why do you recommend them?

[john30563]

What do you guys think about the Chattoga River Trail, the last section(s) for a good two day hike? I think it is from Hwy 28 to the northern terminus. Does anyone know what the mileage is on that leg? It looks nice, how much of it is river and how much is ridge tops? I enjoy trails like the AT, but the AT is darned crowded nowadays. Thanks!

[BirdShooter]

Check out this link:

https://n2backpacking.com/long_trails/crt/crt_sections.htm

It breaks down four different sections of the Chattooga River Trail and provides some photos, maps, etc. I definitely recommend the Tim Homan book if you plan to hike it.

Hiking Trails Of The Southern Nantahala Wilderness, Ellicott Rock Wilderness, And The Chattooga National Wild And Scenic River
https://n2backpacking.com/books/nc/nc_books.htm#hiking_chattooga

The area near Burrells Ford and Ellicott Rock get the most traffic due to easy access, flat terrain, and quiet waters for trout fishing. Sections one and two see much less trail traffic if that’s yourpreference. The hiking is tougher but still easier than the AT in Georgia and there are numerous campsites – some on the river. If you can arrange a shuttle you can easily put together a two day hike. Or you could backtrack out. Regardless, your thinking is right. The CRT is a great place to go. I highly recommend hiking the entire trail. You could do this in one shot or fairly easily over four separate weekends. Let us know how it goes.

[BirdShooter]

P.S. More on the Chattooga River Trail at….

Chattooga River Trail

[FreakShow]

Avoid the Burrell’s Ford area like the plague – or get through it as fast as possible. It’s a mob scene – especially this time of year.

[Stagefright]

You should also check out the Bartram Trail – especially the Cheoah Bald section:

http://www.ncbartramtrail.org/index.htm

[small change]

You can also park at Burrell’s Ford and take the Foothills Trail north to Sloan Bridge (about 7 miles) then take Fork Mt Trail west through the Ellicott Rock Wildernesss area (about 6 miles) to link up with the Chattoga River Trail at Ellicott Rock. It is about 5 or 6 miles south along the river from there to get back to Burrell’s Ford. Its a great loop of about 18-19 miles. There are a few secluded camping areas at the 10-11 mile point. You may not see anyone on the first 2 legs of this hike. I did it a few weeks ago and saw only 1 person until I got back along the river on the last leg the second day. Give it a try. You get streams, waterfalls, mountains and river all in one hike.

[Tree Top Flyer]

I’m into summit hiking so I’d suggest ticking off the state of Ga’s highest elevation (Brasstown Bald), very good hike, very light if any other trail traffic, and a terrific view.

FYI, the visitors center at the top is closed during winter however, the road all the way to the parking area is open (as of Dec 06) and the trail was in good shape.

[Author]

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