Here are the 5 best GA hiking trails with ‘jaw-dropping views,’ ranking says

Georgia is home to a variety of landscapes and if you plan to enjoy even one this fall, there’s no better way than hiking. Whether you’re hiking, mountain biking, climbing or just enjoying the outdoors, Georgia is filled with trails that reward hikers with unforgettable scenery.

Explore Georgia ranked the top five hikes with “jaw-dropping views” that range from sweeping mountain views to coastal marshlands.

Whether you’re a seasoned trekker or looking for a weekend adventure, here are five of the most scenic hikes worth adding to your Georgia bucket list.

Brasstown Bald, Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest

Ranked as the best and most scenic hike, Brasstown tops the Explore Georgia list. Situated in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Brasstown Bald is the highest point in Georgia, towering at 4,784 feet.

The summit observation deck offers a panoramic, 360-degree view stretching into four states on a clear day.

According to Georgia Place-Names: Their History and Origins, its name is derived from a translation error. English settlers misinterpreted the Cherokee name Itse’yĭ (“New Green Place”) as Ûņtsaiyĭ (“brass”), thus birthing the Anglicized name “Brasstown.”

Trail notes:

• A steep half-mile paved trail leads to the top from the main parking area. 
• For more of a challenge hike the rugged 11-mile Arkaquah Trail from Trackrock Gap.
• The visitor center features exhibits and is open seasonally (April–December).
• The temperature is often cooler on top, so plan accordingly.

Chattahoochee Bend State Park, Coweta County

Located near Newnan, this park protects five miles of the Chattahoochee River, which overlooks an elevated tower that puts you eye-level with the treetops.

Trail notes:

• The Riverwalk Trail is 5  miles one way and follows the water.
• It has a mix of quiet stretches and rocky outcrops. 
• The tower lookout is just over a mile in if you want a shorter option.
• Visitors can also enjoy camping, fishing, and paddling.

Cloudland Canyon State Park, Rising Fawn

Located atop of Georgia’s famous Lookout Mountain, it is one of the most photographed parks in the state. Visitors can look forward to unique rock formations, panoramic views and a little bit of whimsy.

The canyon floor is nearly a thousand feet below the rim, so you can get dramatic overlooks with relatively moderate effort.

Trail notes:

• The West Rim Loop is about 5 miles. 
• The Waterfalls Trail has 600 (or more) stairs leading to two stunning falls, for more ambitious hikers.
• Arrive early on the weekends, it can get kinda busy.(or weekday visits) help avoid the crowds.

Crooked River State Park, St. Marys, near Cumberland Island

This riverside park is named for the nearby river showcases salt marshes, pine flatwoods and old-growth hardwoods. It is especially good for birdwatchers and from the observation tower, you might catch sight of ospreys, owls, or migratory songbirds moving along the coast.

Trail notes:

• About 4 miles of mostly flat paths explore the marsh and forest.
• The Bay Boardwalk Trail leads directly to the screened-in wildlife tower.
• You could pair the hike with a trip to Cumberland Island National Seashore to explore one of Georgia’s most unique ecosystems.

Fort Mountain State Park, Chatsworth

Beyond the sweeping mountain views, Fort Mountain is home to an ancient rock wall whose origins remain a mystery. The Historical Marker Database says, “Speculation regarding the builders and their purpose covers a wide field” including sun worship, defense forts for Spanish conquistadors or honeymoon destinations for native Cherokee people.

Trail notes:

• A restored stone tower from the 1930s adds a historic element
• The West Overlook Trail (1.6 miles) provides a fairly quick climb to expansive views.
• Longer loops (up to 8 miles) combine overlooks, streams, and backcountry feel.
• Saturday afternoons features an interpreter-led open house at the fire tower

Tips for your GA hiking adventures

The Georgia Department of Natural Resources and the State Parks and Historic Sites has a few safety tips for hikers:

• Avoid hiking alone
• Stay on marked trails
• Bring plenty of drinking water. Never assume streams or rivers are safe to drink
• Never climb on waterfalls
• Pack for rain, no matter the forecast
• Dress in cotton layers
• Carry a whistle. Three short blasts is the distress signal 
• Don’t rely on cellphones and bring a map
• Dress in bright colors

Georgia State Parks offer over 600 miles of diverse and beautiful trails, and these 5 are only a few. FInd a park and trails near you with the DNR park directory.

Did I omit your favorite? Email me at srose@ledger-enquirer.com or find me on social media.