16 Georgia Hiking Trails Outside State Parks That Everyone’s Talking About
There’s something special about stepping outside and realizing just how much **Georgia has to offer beyond the usual state parks.
Across the region, hidden gems and well-loved trails invite you into a world of rushing waterfalls, sweeping mountain views, and quiet forest paths where time seems to slow down I’ve lost track of hours on hikes like these more than once.
Whether you’re craving a quick afternoon escape or ready to tackle a challenging all-day trek, these trails reward every step with unforgettable scenery.
1. Arabia Mountain Trail
Imagine walking across a massive granite dome that looks like something from another planet. This trail near Lithonia offers exactly that experience, with exposed rock surfaces, rare plants, and colorful wildflowers that bloom in the spring. You’ll find the trailhead at 3787 Klondike Road, Lithonia, GA 30038, making it super easy to access from metro Atlanta.
The path stretches about 6 miles if you do the full loop, but you can easily turn around earlier if you want a shorter hike. Puddles form in the shallow depressions of the rock after rainstorms, creating miniature ecosystems that support unique species. I love how the landscape changes with the seasons, offering something new every time you visit.
Bring plenty of water because there’s very little shade on this trail. The open granite surfaces can get hot in the summer, so early morning or late afternoon hikes work best. Your effort will be rewarded with panoramic views that stretch for miles across the surrounding area.
2. Tallulah Gorge Rim Trail
Few places in Georgia can match the raw power and beauty you’ll witness here. Carved over millions of years, this gorge plunges nearly 1,000 feet deep, creating one of the most dramatic landscapes in the entire state. The rim trail gives you access to multiple overlooks where you can peer down into the chasm and watch the Tallulah River rushing far below at 338 Jane Hurt Yarn Drive, Tallulah Falls, GA 30573.
You’ll walk along well-maintained paths that hug the edge of the gorge, with sturdy railings keeping you safe while you take in the views. The trail covers about 2 miles round trip and is relatively easy for most fitness levels. Several suspension bridges cross the gorge at different points, offering thrilling perspectives for those brave enough to walk across them.
Wildflowers dot the landscape in spring and early summer. Fall brings incredible foliage that frames the gorge in brilliant reds and golds. I recommend visiting on a weekday if possible to avoid the weekend crowds.
3. Panther Creek Falls Trail
Nothing beats the sound of water crashing down a 60-foot waterfall after a good rain. This trail in the Chattahoochee National Forest leads you through beautiful hardwood forests before revealing one of North Georgia’s most impressive waterfalls. The trailhead sits at 104 Panther Creek Road, Clarkesville, GA 30523, where you’ll find a small parking area that fills up quickly on weekends.
The hike covers about 7 miles round trip with moderate difficulty, featuring some steep sections and creek crossings. You’ll follow Panther Creek downstream, passing smaller cascades and pools along the way. The main waterfall appears suddenly as you round a bend, and the sight never gets old no matter how many times you visit.
Rocky terrain requires good hiking boots with solid traction. During heavy rain, the creek can swell and make crossings dangerous, so check conditions before you go. Spring and fall offer the best combination of comfortable temperatures and impressive water flow, making those seasons ideal for your visit.
4. Raven Cliff Falls Trail
Your legs will definitely feel this one, but the payoff makes every step worthwhile. This challenging trail climbs steadily through the wilderness, following Dodd Creek upstream to where it plunges through a massive rock formation. You’ll start your journey at 3457 Old Highway 441, Tiger, GA 30576, in the heart of the Chattahoochee National Forest.
The 5-mile round trip takes you through diverse terrain, from dense rhododendron thickets to open hardwood forests. You’ll cross several wooden bridges and navigate rocky sections that require careful footing. The trail ends at an observation deck where you can watch the falls split through a cliff face, creating a unique double cascade.
Elevation gain totals about 1,000 feet, so pace yourself and take breaks when needed. The rhododendrons bloom spectacularly in late spring, creating tunnels of pink and white flowers. I always pack extra snacks and water for this hike because the climb back out can be tougher than you expect.
5. Len Foote Hike Inn Trail
What if your hike could end with a warm bed and a hot meal instead of a drive home? This unique trail system leads you 5 miles through the forest to a backcountry lodge where you can spend the night. The adventure begins at the Amicalola Falls State Park approach trail parking area near 240 Amicalola Falls State Park Road, Dawsonville, GA 30534.
The moderately difficult path winds through peaceful woods, crossing streams and climbing gentle ridges. You’ll carry a lighter pack than traditional backpackers since the inn provides meals and bedding. The sustainable lodge operates entirely off-grid, using solar power and composting systems to minimize environmental impact.
Reservations are required and often book months in advance, especially for fall weekends. The experience combines the solitude of backcountry hiking with the comfort of a roof over your head. I think it’s perfect for hikers who want to try overnight adventures without investing in camping gear.
The inn staff serves family-style dinners that bring guests together for great conversations after a day on the trail.
6. Dukes Creek Falls Trail
Sometimes the best adventures come in small packages. This relatively short trail packs a serious punch with its stunning waterfall and well-designed viewing platforms. Located at 3977 Richard Russell Scenic Highway, Helen, GA 30545, the trailhead offers ample parking and clean restroom facilities.
You’ll descend about 300 steps through a beautiful forest, following a series of wooden decks and staircases that make the trail accessible to most visitors. The falls drop in multiple tiers, with the main cascade plunging over 150 feet into a rocky pool. Three observation platforms give you different perspectives on the waterfall, each offering unique photo opportunities.
The 2-mile round trip is mostly downhill on the way in, which means you’ll face a steady climb on the return. Your calves will get a workout, but the trail is well-maintained and easy to follow. Spring brings heavy water flow that makes the falls especially impressive.
I recommend arriving early on summer weekends because this popular spot can get crowded by mid-morning.
7. Sweetwater Creek Red Trail
History and nature combine beautifully on this trail that takes you past the ruins of a Civil War-era textile mill. The path follows Sweetwater Creek through a forested valley, offering creek views and fascinating glimpses into Georgia’s past. You’ll access the trail at 1750 Mount Vernon Road, Lithia Springs, GA 30122, just west of Atlanta.
The 5.5-mile loop provides moderate hiking with some rocky sections and elevation changes. You’ll walk alongside the rushing creek, where boulders create small rapids and pools. The mill ruins appear about halfway through the hike, with brick walls and foundations still standing among the trees.
Interpretive signs explain the mill’s history and its destruction during the war. The creek offers cooling relief on hot days, and many hikers stop to dip their feet in the water. I find this trail perfect for when you want both exercise and something interesting to look at besides just trees.
Fall colors reflect beautifully in the creek, making autumn an especially scenic time to visit.
8. Cloudland Canyon West Rim Trail
Perched on the western edge of Lookout Mountain, this trail delivers some of the most spectacular views in Northwest Georgia. You’ll walk along the canyon rim with sheer cliffs dropping away to your left and dense forest to your right. The trailhead starts near 122 Cloudland Canyon Park Road, Rising Fawn, GA 30738, though you’ll want to park at the designated hiking trail parking area.
The 4.9-mile loop takes you past multiple overlooks where you can see across the canyon to the distant mountains. You’ll traverse relatively flat terrain for most of the hike, making it accessible for families with older children. Rock outcrops provide perfect spots for breaks and photos.
Wildflowers bloom along the trail in spring and early summer. The trail can be rocky in places, so wear shoes with good ankle support. I love how the changing light throughout the day creates different moods and colors in the canyon.
Early morning fog sometimes fills the gorge, creating an ethereal scene that looks like something from a fantasy movie.
9. Blood Mountain Trail
Georgia’s highest peak on the Appalachian Trail draws hikers from across the country. This challenging climb rewards your effort with 360-degree views from the summit at 4,458 feet. The most popular route starts at the Byron Reece parking area on Richard Russell Scenic Highway near 7653 GA-180, Blairsville, GA 30512.
The 4.3-mile round trip gains over 1,400 feet in elevation, making it a strenuous workout even for experienced hikers. You’ll climb through changing forest zones, starting in hardwoods and transitioning to high-elevation species near the top. A stone shelter built by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s sits at the summit, offering a place to rest and escape the wind.
Weather can change rapidly at this elevation, so bring layers even on warm days. The trail can be extremely crowded on nice weekends, with the parking lot often full by mid-morning. I suggest hiking on a weekday or arriving before sunrise if you want a more peaceful experience.
The views from the top stretch across multiple states on clear days.
10. Yonah Mountain Trail
This granite giant rises dramatically from the surrounding landscape, creating one of North Georgia’s most recognizable landmarks. The steep climb tests your endurance, but the summit offers some of the best views you’ll find anywhere in the state. You’ll find the trailhead at the end of Chambers Road near Helen, accessible from 7693 Chambers Road, Cleveland, GA 30528.
The 4.6-mile round trip gains about 1,400 feet, with the final push to the summit being particularly steep and rocky. You’ll scramble over granite slabs and navigate through boulders as you approach the top. The summit features massive rock outcrops where you can sit and take in views of the Chattahoochee National Forest stretching in all directions.
Rock climbers often scale the vertical faces on the mountain’s south side. The trail can be slippery when wet, so save this hike for dry days. I always feel a huge sense of accomplishment standing on top after the tough climb.
Sunrise and sunset from the summit are absolutely magical, though you’ll need a headlamp for descent if you stay late.
11. DeSoto Falls Trail
Multiple waterfalls along a single trail make this hike a crowd favorite. The path follows Frogtown Creek upstream, passing three distinct falls of varying heights and characters. Your starting point is the DeSoto Falls Campground area at 1425 DeSoto Falls Road, Cleveland, GA 30528, where parking and facilities are available.
The lower falls requires only a short walk from the parking area, making it accessible for almost everyone. The middle and upper falls require more effort, with the full hike covering about 3.2 miles round trip. You’ll climb steadily through rhododendron thickets and hardwood forest, with the sound of rushing water guiding you upstream.
The upper falls drops about 90 feet, creating the most impressive display of the three. Wooden bridges cross the creek at several points, adding to the scenic experience. I recommend hiking all the way to the upper falls even though it requires more effort, because that’s where you’ll find the most dramatic scenery.
Spring runoff creates powerful cascades, while summer offers swimming opportunities in the pools below the lower falls.
12. Pine Mountain Trail
Stretching over 23 miles across the ridge of Pine Mountain, this is Georgia’s longest continuously marked hiking trail. You don’t have to hike the whole thing to enjoy it, though. Multiple access points let you explore shorter sections that showcase the best features.
The eastern terminus sits near 18730 GA-85, Warm Springs, GA 31830, at the WJSP-TV tower.
The trail follows the mountain crest, offering periodic views of the surrounding valleys and distant peaks. You’ll pass through diverse ecosystems, from pine forests to hardwood coves to rocky outcrops. Several waterfalls and streams cross the path, providing water sources and scenic spots for breaks.
Backcountry camping is allowed at designated sites if you want to turn this into a multi-day adventure. The trail is well-marked with white blazes, making navigation straightforward. I think the western sections offer the best views, while the eastern portions provide more solitude.
Spring wildflowers carpet the forest floor in places, and fall foliage transforms the entire ridge into a palette of warm colors.
13. Jacks River Falls Trail
Getting to this waterfall requires serious commitment, but those who make the journey rarely regret it. The remote location in the Cohutta Wilderness keeps crowds away and preserves a true backcountry experience. You’ll start at the Beech Bottom trailhead, accessed via Forest Service roads near Chatsworth, with the closest reference being near 4946 Jacks River Road, Cisco, GA 30708.
The 16-mile round trip follows old logging roads and wilderness trails through pristine forest. You’ll ford Jacks River multiple times, so waterproof boots or sandals are essential. The falls themselves drop about 80 feet into a large pool, creating a spectacular sight and a refreshing swimming hole.
This hike is best saved for experienced hikers comfortable with navigation and creek crossings. The trail can be faint in places, and high water can make crossings dangerous. I recommend bringing a map and knowing how to use it, as cell service is nonexistent in this area.
Most people turn this into an overnight trip, camping near the falls to enjoy them without the pressure of a long return hike the same day.
14. Springer Mountain Trail
Standing at the southern terminus of the Appalachian Trail is a bucket-list moment for many hikers. This mountain marks the beginning of the 2,190-mile journey to Maine, though most visitors just come for the day. The approach trail starts at Amicalola Falls State Park, but you can also access the summit from the Springer Mountain parking area on Forest Service Road 42 near Dahlonega, GA 30533.
The hike from the FS42 parking area covers about 2 miles round trip with moderate elevation gain. You’ll walk through peaceful hardwood forest before reaching the summit, where a bronze plaque marks the official AT starting point. A register box lets you sign in and read entries from thru-hikers beginning their epic journeys.
The summit itself is wooded without dramatic views, but the significance of the location makes it special. Many people combine this with nearby trails to create longer loop hikes. I love reading the register entries and imagining the adventures that begin from this exact spot.
Spring brings an influx of thru-hikers heading north, creating a festive atmosphere on the mountain.
15. Amicalola Falls Trail
Witnessing Georgia’s tallest waterfall never gets old. The falls drop an impressive 729 feet in multiple cascades, creating one of the most photographed natural features in the state. While technically near a state park, the main waterfall trail itself operates as part of the approach trail system at 240 Amicalola Falls State Park Road, Dawsonville, GA 30534.
You have options for viewing the falls, from easy paved paths to strenuous stairway climbs. The most popular route involves climbing 604 steps that parallel the falls, offering changing perspectives as you ascend. You’ll feel the spray and hear the roar of the water as you make your way up the steep staircase.
An alternative route follows a more gradual trail through the forest, avoiding the stairs but taking longer to reach the top. Both routes converge at the top of the falls where you can look out over the surrounding mountains. I suggest taking the stairs up for the waterfall views and the forest trail down to give your knees a break.
Spring runoff creates the most powerful flow, while fall offers brilliant foliage as a backdrop to the cascading water.
16. Fort Mountain Stone Wall Trail
Mystery surrounds the ancient stone wall that snakes along this mountain’s summit. Nobody knows for certain who built it or why, though theories range from Native American fortifications to ceremonial structures. The trail that explores this archaeological puzzle starts at Fort Mountain, near 181 Fort Mountain Park Road, Chatsworth, GA 30705.
The 1.8-mile loop follows the remnants of the wall, which stretches for over 800 feet along the ridge. You’ll walk through mountain laurel and hardwood forest, with interpretive signs explaining various theories about the wall’s origins. The stone structure stands about 2-3 feet tall in most places, clearly man-made but worn by centuries of weather.
Views from the ridge look out over the surrounding valleys and mountains. The trail is relatively easy with minimal elevation change, making it accessible for families. I find the mystery of the wall fascinating, and I enjoy imagining the people who might have built it hundreds or thousands of years ago.
The mountain laurel blooms spectacularly in late spring, creating tunnels of pink and white flowers along portions of the trail.
