Looking for a great day hike in GA? My family and friends love to get outdoors this time of year. We enjoy backpacking and hammock camping, but when there’s not enough time for overnight trips, we look for quick and easy day hikes. Lucky for us, there are plenty to pick from in North Georgia. Here’s our list of some of the best hiking in Georgia.
Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park
Located between Marietta and Kennesaw, Kennesaw Mountain is the highest point in metro Atlanta. It’s elevation is just over 1,800 feet. Kennesaw Mountain has multiple trails to pick from. You can pick an easy day hike or a challenging trail run. My favorite hike is the Kennesaw Mountain Trail. This 2 mile hike rewards you with a jaw-dropping view of the Atlanta skyline at the summit.
Red Top Mountain State Park
Located in Lake Allatoona this conveniently located park offers 15 miles of trails winding through lush greenery. The Paved Lakeside Trail is a very easy, wheelchair accessible loop that lines the shore of Lake Allatoona.
Vogel State Park
This picturesque state park is at the base of Blood Mountain in Blairesville, GA. Hikers have many trails to choose from. There’s an easy trail called Bear Hair Gap loop, which leads you to Trahlyta Falls. Or you can opt for a more difficult trail, the Coosa Backcountry Trail, a 12.9 mile partial loop where you will climb 1 mile in elevation and cross 3 different ridgelines.
Providence Canyon State Park
Nicknamed “Georgia’s Little Grand Canyon” is located in Lumpkin, GA. With over 10 miles of trails, hikers here get to enjoy scenery of large canyons that were caused by poor farming practices in the 19th century. There are 9 canyon hikes along with 2 other trail hikes, one rated easy-to-moderate and the other rated extremely rugged and difficult.
Raven’s Creek Falls Trail
Packed with beautiful waterfalls, this hiking trail located in Helen, GA is not only a beautiful destination, but also very popular. This 2.5 mile hike follows a beautiful trout stream. Camping is very popular on this trail, and campsites won’t cost you anything (bring $5 to park or get a Georgia Parks Pass), but are first come, first served.
Benton McKaye Trail
Benton McKaye Trail is the longest trail in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The Benton McKaye Trails, aka The BMT, covers 81+ miles in Georgia alone. There’s another 205+ miles that spans Tennessee and North Carolina. Besides the beauty The BMT offers, it also offers its hikers an escape from it all. Much of the trail is located in Wilderness areas where motorized vehicles are not allowed. Escaping to The BMT means being rewarded with gorgeous ridgeline views.
Keown Falls
Located in LaFayette, GA is sure to please. This less than 2-mile loop is always bustling. It’s an easy hike for all ages and the trail is dog friendly, too. The loop leads you underneath one of two waterfalls you’ll see on this trail. Hit this trail during peak color change and you won’t be disappointed.
Now, Go Take A hike.
There are many options for hiking in Georgia. You really can’t go wrong. I hope you are able to get outside, get some fresh air, and see some wonderful views along the way. Leave a comment below with your favorite day hike!
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