Chattahoochee National Forest - Blood Mountain - Member Hike
| Hike Name: | Chattahoochee National Forest - Blood Mountain |
|---|---|
| Country: | United States |
| State: | Georgia |
| Nearby Town: | Dahlonega |
| Rating: |  |
| Directions: | From Dahlonega, take U.S. 19/129 North for 22 miles to Neels Gap where the Appalachian Trail crosses the road. The Walasi-yi Center (which has a well stocked backpacking store and hostel) is located here, but parking is for store access only. Continue past Neels Gap down the hill for 0.5 miles and take the second left into the Reece Memorial Parking Area. This is the day and overnight hiking lot for the Appalachian Trail. The blue-blazed Freedman Trail leads from the parking area uphill for one mile and crosses the Appalacian Trail. |
| Total Hike Distance: | 4.80 miles |
| Hike Difficulty: | Moderate |
| Permit Required: | No |
| Hike Type: | In & Out, Backtrack Hike |
| Hike Starts/Ends: | Reece Memorial Parking Area |
| Trails Used: | Reece Memorial Access Trail, A.T. |
| Backcountry Campsites: | Yes |
| Backcountry Water Sources: | None |
| Management: | U.S. Forest Service |
| Contact Information: | Chattahoochee National Forest Brasstown Ranger District 508 Oak Street NW, Gainesville,GA 30501 (706) 745-6928 |
| Best Season: | Winter, Spring, Summer, Fall |
| Users: | Hikers, Dogs |
| Road Conditions: | Primary Paved Roads, Secondary Paved Roads |
| Hike Summary: | Blood Mountain is the highest point on the Appalachian Trail in the State of Georgia. It is a popular destination for both overnight and day hikers since there are magnificent views from a rock outcropping at the summit. Blood Mountain (and nearby Slaughter Gap) were once the site of a major battle between the Cherokee and Creek Indians, but the summit is also known for an old stone shelter built by the CCC during the 1930’s. It is listed in the National Register of Historic Places and is still used by hikers as a backcountry shelter. A number of campsites can also be found in the bushes around the mountain, and there are great views from rock outcroppings south of the shelter. This backtrack hike starts at the Reece Memorial Access Parking area and climbs via the Reece Memorial Trail to the white blazed Appalachian Trail. Turn right onto the A.T. and follow it to the summit of Blood Mountain where there are outstanding views. |
One reply on “Chattahoochee National Forest - Blood Mountain - Member Hike”
Climbed it in 1990 after running the Peachtree Road Race–beautiful views in beautiful country. Really tired legs, however, after 10 K past Elton John’s place, then hike. Thanks to Jeff and Anna for a great hike.