LivingInTheMountains.com!: Adventures

In addition to the two long trails in Fannin County (the Appalachian Trail and the Benton MacKaye Trail) there are a number of shorter day hikes and overnighters that cover every skill level. Here is a list of our favorites:

Lake Blue Ridge Loop Trail-This easy trail begins as a hike along the shore of Lake Blue Ridge, then meanders through the woods on the return trip. Distance .6 miles

Green Mountain Trail - An easy to moderate trail, it leaves from Deep Gap in the Aska Adventure Area, climbs Green Mountain where seasonal views of Lake Blue Ridge are possible, then descends to a second trailhead. On the return trip a slightly different trail can be taken.

Stanley Gap Trail - This moderate to difficult point-to-point trail is 4.6 miles and if you want to day hike, it will take two cars, one parked at Deep Gap, the other at Stanley Gap. From Deep Gap the trail climbs Davenport Mountain, then joins the Benton MacKaye for a brief stretch as it climbs Rocky Mountain. From the top of this mountain the trail descends rapidly (read steeply) into Stanley Gap.

Tipton Mountain - This steep, difficult 2.6 mile in-and-out climb on the Benton MacKaye Trail from Highway 60 at Wilscot Gap will reward you with some excellent year-round views.

Benton MacKaye -Appalachian Trail Loop - This is a 5.5 mile moderate loop trail. From the Springer Mountain Day Use parking area, take the combined Appalachian/Benton MacKaye Trail north, climbing Rich Mountain. After following the ridge, take the Appalachian Trail down to Stover Creek and over to Three Forks. On the return trip, follow the Benton MacKaye.

Jacks River Trail - This moderate 16.9 mile trail will require at least one night under the stars, but its worth the trip. Just slightly more that halfway through the trip are the incredible Jacks River Falls. The trailhead is at Dally Gap and it ends at the Alacusy Valley on the other side of the Cohutta Wilderness. Requires two cars.