The best walks and hikes in Georgia
4.7
(997)
12,883
hikers
1,137
hikes
Hiking in Georgia offers diverse landscapes, from the Appalachian and Blue Ridge Mountains in the north to deep canyons and extensive wetlands. The state features significant geological formations like Stone Mountain and dramatic canyons such as Tallulah Gorge and Providence Canyon. Numerous state parks provide a wide array of trails, including routes leading to impressive waterfalls and through unique ecosystems like the Okefenokee Swamp. This varied terrain supports a rich array of flora and fauna for hikers to observe.
Best hiking trails in Georgia
- The most popular hiking route is Cherokee Trail loop — Stone Mountain Park, a 7.5 miles (12.1 km) trail that takes 3 hours 30 minutes to complete. This moderate route encircles the granite monadnock of Stone Mountain.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Yonah Mountain Trail — Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest, a moderate 4.3 miles (6.9 km) path. This trail offers ascents with views within the national forest.
- Local hikers also love the West Rim Loop Trail via Hemlock Falls & Cherokee Falls — Cloudland Canyon State Park, a 5.5 miles (8.8 km) trail leading through canyon landscapes and past waterfalls, often completed in about 3 hours 10 minutes.
- Hiking in Georgia is defined by mountain ranges, deep canyons, and cascading waterfalls. The extensive network of trails offers options for various ability levels, from easy walks to challenging backcountry routes.
- The routes in Georgia are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 1,000 reviews. More than 13,000 hikers have used komoot to explore Georgia's varied terrain.
Last updated: April 27, 2026
4.9
(20)
147
hikers
9.02km
02:42
280m
280m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
(6)
121
hikers
8.25km
02:21
190m
170m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.5
(6)
121
hikers
8.25km
02:21
190m
170m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(4)
113
hikers
3.83km
01:10
80m
230m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
(5)
71
hikers
4.89km
01:49
410m
170m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(3)
50
hikers
9.32km
02:47
390m
140m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
42
hikers
2.19km
00:43
80m
80m
Moderate hike. Great for any fitness level. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
42
hikers
3.06km
00:50
50m
40m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.4
(7)
40
hikers
6.20km
02:26
270m
230m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
4.4
(7)
39
hikers
6.28km
02:27
270m
240m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
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Other adventures in Georgia
Tips from the Community
Elevation: Approximately 90–100 feet (27–30 meters). • Type: Freefall (single tier). • Location: Second waterfall on the Waterfalls Trail, approximately 0.5 miles (800 m) further than Cherokee Falls. • Features: • Less accessible than Cherokee Falls, but with a beautiful view from a wooden platform. • Surrounded by hemlock trees and a more rugged, rocky gorge. • The trail to Hemlock Falls is slightly steeper and more challenging, but well-marked.
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Cherokee Falls • Height: approximately 60–65 feet (18–20 meters). • Type: Freefall (single tier). • Location: First waterfall along the Waterfalls Trail, approximately 0.3 miles (500 m) from the trailhead. • The waterfall plunges into a clear blue pool fed by Daniel Creek 1. • Surrounded by tall trees and mossy rock walls, it's ideal for photography. • The water flow varies seasonally. • Easily accessible via well-maintained stairs and trails.
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Beautiful overnight accommodation in the heart of nature. There are 20 bedrooms with bunk beds and a mattress for children. Dinner and breakfast are eaten together. On a guided tour of the house, you'll learn about the building's history, the Japanese-inspired architecture, the environmental awards (e.g., about the composting system with worms), the connection to Len Foote, and the observation deck with astronomical art. After dinner, you can enjoy the game room or attend a lecture. The warm showers are very pleasant after the strenuous climb. It's a shame there are no facilities for day visitors. Lunch packs are available for overnight guests. https://hike-inn.com/ The moderate, five-mile trail starting from the top of Amicalola Falls is among the most popular mountain trails in the North Georgia Blue Ridge. And one of its most beautiful and diverse. The two-to-four hour hike crosses small streams, traverses scenic ridges and ambles through stands of mountain laurel and rhododendron. Backpacker magazine included our trail as one of 36 “Best American Hikes” and our Inn is included on National Geographic Traveler’s “Stay List.”
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WE SLEEP HERE IN OBEDIENCE TO THE LAW: WHEN DUTY CALLED, WE CAME; WHEN THE LAND CALLED, WE DIED.
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About 200 young men once camped on this field—not as soldiers, but as civilians, working to maintain the earthworks and build Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park. As part of the Civilian Conservation Corps, a federal employment program during the Great Depression, Kennesaw's Camp T.M. Brumby (Camp NI Company 431) was located here from 1938 until early 1942. The CCC was one of the most successful "New Deal" programs to revitalize the U.S. economy after the stock market crash of 1929. CCC crews worked nationwide, building scenic highways, parks, trails, community pools, and other public works, while sending most of their paychecks home to struggling families. Much of the CCC's work in Kennesaw is still visible and useful today, including the trail system and the brick and bronze entrance signs.
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The entrance fee to the national park is $5 (annual pass €40) and can be paid via app.
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At the Visitor Center of the Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park you can learn about the history of the former Civil War battlefield. Inside the visitor center there is a permanent exhibition, and around the center various information boards provide information about the events of 1864.
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Really a lot of steps. 😄 The waterfall is really fun. Back on Easter Sunday for a short workout session. Don't worry, there are plenty of benches for breaks
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available in Georgia?
Georgia offers a vast network of hiking opportunities, with over 675 routes documented on komoot. These range from easy strolls to challenging backcountry adventures, catering to all skill levels.
What types of terrain can I expect when hiking in Georgia?
Georgia's diverse landscape provides a wide variety of terrains. You can find towering mountains like the Appalachians and Blue Ridge, deep canyons such as Tallulah Gorge and Providence Canyon, and unique geological formations like Stone Mountain. The state also features extensive wetlands, dense forests, and trails alongside rivers and waterfalls.
Are there any family-friendly hiking trails in Georgia?
Yes, Georgia has many trails suitable for families. State parks often provide accessible paths. For example, the West Rim Loop Trail via Hemlock Falls & Cherokee Falls in Cloudland Canyon State Park offers a moderate experience with the reward of waterfalls, which can be exciting for children.
Which trails in Georgia feature waterfalls?
Georgia is home to many impressive waterfalls. You can find trails leading to spectacular falls at Amicalola Falls State Park, Cloudland Canyon State Park (featuring Hemlock and Cherokee Falls), and Tallulah Gorge State Park. The Raven Cliff Falls trail in Raven Cliffs Wilderness is another popular option.
Are there any circular hiking routes in Georgia?
Yes, many state parks and natural areas offer circular routes. A notable example is the Cherokee Trail loop at Stone Mountain Park, which encircles the granite monadnock. The West Rim Loop Trail in Cloudland Canyon State Park is also a popular circular option.
What are some interesting landmarks or natural features to see while hiking in Georgia?
Georgia's trails lead to many unique sights. You can hike around the massive granite dome of Stone Mountain Summit, witness the dramatic cascades of Amicalola Falls, or explore the deep canyons of Tallulah Gorge and Providence Canyon. The East Palisades trail near Atlanta also guides hikers to a sprawling bamboo forest along the Chattahoochee River.
What do other hikers enjoy most about hiking in Georgia?
The hiking routes in Georgia are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 800 reviews. Reviewers often praise the diverse landscapes, from mountain vistas to deep canyons and impressive waterfalls, as well as the well-maintained trails and opportunities for varied experiences.
Are there any dog-friendly trails in Georgia?
Many state parks and national forests in Georgia welcome dogs on trails, though leash laws and specific restrictions may apply. Always check the park's regulations before heading out. Trails in areas like the Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest, such as the Yonah Mountain Trail, are generally dog-friendly.
What is the best time of year to hike in Georgia?
Georgia offers hiking opportunities year-round due to its varied climate. Spring brings wildflowers and mild temperatures, making it ideal for most trails. Fall provides stunning foliage, especially in the northern mountains. Summers can be hot and humid, but higher elevation trails offer cooler conditions. Winters are generally mild, though mountain areas can experience snow and colder temperatures, requiring appropriate gear.
Are permits required for hiking in Georgia's state parks or national forests?
While many trails in Georgia's state parks and national forests are accessible without specific permits for day hiking, some areas, especially for backcountry camping or accessing certain parts of Tallulah Gorge, may require permits or reservations. It's always best to check with the specific park or forest service unit you plan to visit for their current regulations.
Are there trails that offer views of the Appalachian Trail in Georgia?
Yes, a significant segment of the Appalachian Trail (AT) runs through Georgia, offering extensive long-distance hiking opportunities. Trails like the Turkey Stamp & Blood Mountain Loop in Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest incorporate sections of the AT, providing hikers with a taste of this iconic route and its scenic views.
Can I find less crowded hiking trails in North Georgia?
While popular spots can get busy, North Georgia has numerous trails where you can find more solitude. Exploring trails within the Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest beyond the most well-known routes, or visiting state parks during off-peak hours or weekdays, can lead to a more peaceful experience. Backcountry trails in parks like Black Rock Mountain or Vogel State Park also tend to be less crowded.
Most popular routes in Georgia
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