Hiking - Mountain Oasis Cabin Rentals

Ultimate Hiking Guide to Northeast Georgia: Your Perfect Weekend Getaway

Escape to the serene beauty of Northeast Georgia’s mountains for a rejuvenating weekend getaway. Nestled in the southern Appalachians, this region offers cascading waterfalls, panoramic vistas, and lush forests, perfect for unplugging and creating lasting memories. Ideal for both seasoned hikers and casual adventurers, Northeast Georgia’s trails are accessible year-round, with spring blooms and fall foliage being particularly spectacular. Below, we focus on six charming towns—Ellijay, Blue Ridge, McCaysville, Blairsville, Young Harris, and Talking Rock—each offering unique hikes and local vibes, all within a 1-2 hour drive from Atlanta. For an exceptional stay, we spotlight Mountain Oasis Cabin Rentals, a premier choice for cozy, high-quality accommodations in Ellijay and Blue Ridge.

Top Hiking Trails in Northeast Georgia

These trails, located near the featured towns, showcase the region’s natural wonders,
from waterfalls to high peaks, mostly within the Chattahoochee National Forest or local
preserves. Here’s a curated list with key details to plan your adventure.

Trail Name	Location	Distance (Round Trip)	Difficulty	Highlights	Best For
Cartecay River Loop	Near Ellijay	3 miles	Easy to Moderate	Scenic river views, forested paths, great for a relaxing walk	Families and casual hikers
Emery Creek Falls	Near Ellijay	7 miles	Moderate	Cascading waterfalls, swimming holes, lush forest	Waterfall enthusiasts
Bear Creek Trail	Near Ellijay	4-6 miles	Moderate	Old-growth trees, creek crossings, serene forest loop	Nature immersion
Lake Blue Ridge Loop	Near BlueRidge	5.6 miles	Moderate	Sparkling lake views, picnic spots, forested paths	Lakeside relaxation
Swinging Bridge Trail	Near Blue Ridge/McCays ville	1 mile	Easy	Iconic Toccoa River suspension bridge, photo ops	Quick outings and families
Long Branch Loop	Aska Adventure Area, Blue Ridge	2.2 miles	Easy	Rhododendron tunnels, valley views, accessible trail	Beginners and scenic strolls
Flat Creek Loop	Aska Adventure Area, Blue Ridge	5.5 miles	Moderate	Forested ridges, diverse flora, adventure area access	Active hikers
Old Copper Road Trail	Near McCaysville	3 miles	Easy to Moderate	Historic path, Toccoa River views, quiet trails	History buffs and casual hikes
Jacks River Falls	Cohutta Wilderness, near McCaysville	9 miles	Strenuous	Dramatic cascades, creek crossings, remote wilderness	Adventurous trekkers
Rhododendron Trail	Near McCaysville	4 miles	Moderate	Blooming flora, lakeside serenity, peaceful paths	Flora enthusiasts
Brasstown Bald	Near Blairsville/Young Harris	1 mile	Easy	Georgia’s highest point (4,784 feet), 360- degree views	Summit seekers and accessibility
Blood Mountain	Near Blairsville	4.3 miles	Strenuous	Appalachian Trail, rocky summits, expansive views	Epic mountain climbs
Helton Creek Falls	Near Blairsville	0.3 miles	Easy	Twin waterfalls, short trail, family-friendly	Quick waterfall visits
Bear Hair Gap Loop	Vogel State Park, near Blairsville	4 miles	Moderate	Lake views, forested trails, wildflowers	Park exploration
Miller Trek Trail	Near Young Harris	5 miles	Moderate	Resort-area forests, wildlife, streams	Relaxed resort hikes
Arkaquah Trail	Near Young Harris	11 miles (or shorter to summit)	Strenuous	Leads to Brasstown Bald, ridge views, challenging ascent	Long-distance hikers
High Shoals Falls Loop	Near Young Harris	2.5 miles	Moderate	Stunning waterfalls, picnic areas, forested paths	Waterfall picnics
Jack’s Trail to Red Clay Gap	Near Young Harris	4 miles	Moderate	Ridge views, forested trails, moderate climbs	Scenic variety
Pickens Trail	Talking Rock Nature Preserve	1.7 miles	Easy	Wooded paths, creeks, community-built trails	Quiet strolls
Nitro Nix North	Talking Rock Nature Preserve	1.1 miles	Easy	Short, forested trail, birdwatching opportunities	Families and beginners
Amadahy Loop Clear	Near Talking Rock	2 miles	Easy	Birdwatching, creeks, serene preserve trails	Nature observation
Creek to Cartecay River	Near Talking Rock	4 miles	Moderate	River views, forested paths, moderate elevation	Active nature lovers
Burnt Mountain Champion	Near Talking Rock	3 miles	Moderate	Elevation gains, scenic views, quiet trails	Hidden gem seekers

Suggested Weekend Itineraries

These 2-day itineraries are tailored to each town, combining hiking with local attractions like apple orchards, scenic railways, or lakeside relaxation. Adjust based on fitness level and season.

Itinerary for Ellijay: Apple Orchards and Forest Trails (Family-Friendly Adventure)

Day 1: Arrive in Ellijay, the “Apple Capital of Georgia.” Start with the Cartecay River
Loop Trail (3 miles) for a scenic morning walk. Afternoon, hike Emery Creek Falls (7
miles) for waterfalls and swimming. End with apple picking at Hillcrest Orchards
and a BBQ dinner.
Day 2: Explore Bear Creek Trail (4-6 miles) for old-growth trees, then relax at
Carter’s Lake for picnics or boating. If time allows, add Fall Branch Falls (0.5 miles)
for a quick waterfall. Total hiking: ~14 miles.
Why It’s Great: Ellijay’s hikes and agritourism offer a wholesome escape. Pair with
local winery visits for extra charm.

Itinerary for Blue Ridge: Lakeside Peaks and Scenic Swings (Scenic Exploration)

Day 1: Base in vibrant Blue Ridge and hike the Lake Blue Ridge Loop (5.6 miles) for
lake views. Afternoon, do the Swinging Bridge Trail (1 mile) over the Toccoa River.
Enjoy the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway and lakeside dining.
Day 2: Explore Aska Adventure Area with Long Branch Loop (2.2 miles) or Flat Creek
Loop (5.5 miles) for rhododendrons and ridges. Add Fall Branch Falls (0.5 miles) if
time permits, then visit a winery. Total hiking: ~14 miles.
Why It’s Great: Blue Ridge’s trails pair perfectly with train rides and luxury cabins
for a polished retreat.

Itinerary for McCaysville: River Adventures and Wilderness Treks (Off-the- Beaten-Path Thrills)

Day 1: Settle in McCaysville, on the Georgia-Tennessee line. Hike Old Copper Road
Trail (3 miles) for history and river views. Afternoon, tackle Jacks River Falls (9 miles)
in the Cohutta Wilderness for dramatic cascades.
Day 2: Walk the Rhododendron Trail (4 miles) for flora and serenity, or Lake Blue
Ridge Campground Trail (1-2 miles). Include the Swinging Bridge for fun, then tube
at Horseshoe Bend Park. Total hiking: ~17 miles.
Why It’s Great: McCaysville’s rivers and wilderness offer a rugged, border-town
vibe with fewer crowds.

Itinerary for Blairsville: Summit Vistas and Waterfall Wonders (High- Elevation Escape)

Day 1: Arrive in Blairsville and summit Brasstown Bald (1 mile) for panoramic views.
Follow with Helton Creek Falls (0.3 miles) and Bear Hair Gap Loop (4 miles) at Vogel
State Park for lake and forest views.
Day 2: Hike Blood Mountain (4.3 miles) on the Appalachian Trail for rocky summits.
Add Nottely Reservoir Trail (2 miles) for a waterside walk, then enjoy a scenic drive.
Total hiking: ~11 miles.
Why It’s Great: Blairsville’s trails lead to epic highs and serene lows, ideal for
photographers and nature lovers.

Itinerary for Young Harris: Resort Loops and Bald Summits (Relaxed Mountain Retreat)

Day 1: Check into Young Harris and hike Miller Trek Trail (5 miles) through resort
forests. Afternoon, take the Arkaquah Trail (11 miles or shorten to summit) to
Brasstown Bald for epic views.
Day 2: Explore High Shoals Falls Loop (2.5 miles) for waterfalls and picnics, then
Jack’s Trail to Red Clay Gap (4 miles) for ridges. Unwind at Lake Chatuge with
boating or dining. Total hiking: ~22 miles (adjust for shorter routes).
Why It’s Great: Young Harris blends resort luxury with accessible hikes, perfect for
couples or groups.

Itinerary for Talking Rock: Local Preserves and Hidden Gems (Quiet Nature Immersion)

Day 1: Arrive in serene Talking Rock and hike Talking Rock Nature Preserve trails:
Pickens Trail (1.7 miles) and Nitro Nix North (1.1 miles), plus Amadahy Loop (2
miles) for birdwatching. Total ~5 miles.
Day 2: Hike Clear Creek to Cartecay River (4 miles) or Burnt Mountain Champion (3
miles) for views. Relax with winery visits or antiquing in Jasper. Total hiking: ~15
miles.
Why It’s Great: Talking Rock’s preserve offers uncrowded, community-built trails
for a low-key vibe near Ellijay’s attractions.

Where to Stay: Spotlight on Mountain Oasis Cabin Rentals

For an unforgettable stay, Mountain Oasis Cabin Rentals is the premier choice in Ellijay and Blue Ridge, offering a perfect blend of luxury, comfort, and proximity to trails. With over 20 properties, many featuring stunning mountain or waterfront views, these cabins cater to families, couples, and groups. Most are pet-friendly with no extra fees, ideal for hikers bringing furry companions. Expect modern amenities like hot tubs, game rooms, and high-speed Wi-Fi, ensuring relaxation after a day on the trails. Their exceptional customer service, rooted in integrity and strong work ethics, aims to “wow” guests, making Mountain Oasis your go-to for memorable getaways. Notable cabins include River’s Bend on the Coosawattee River and Mountain Waters Lodge for luxury stays. Book directly at www.mountainoasiscabinrentals.com for VIP perks like early/late check-outs or discounts on select dates. Book early, especially in fall, for packages with shuttle services or guided hikes.

Essential Tips for Your Hiking Getaway

Best Time to Visit: Spring for wildflowers, summer for river dips, fall for foliage and
apples, winter for quiet trails. Check weather apps for mountain conditions.
What to Pack: Sturdy shoes, 2 liters of water, snacks, bug spray, layers, and
AllTrails for offline maps. A Georgia State Park pass saves on parking.
Safety First: Stick to marked trails, carry bear spray for remote areas, and share
plans. Cell service is spotty—download maps.
Eco-Friendly Practices: Leave no trace; pack out trash and respect wildlife.
Dining & More: Enjoy local BBQ in Ellijay, trout in Blue Ridge, or festivals in
Blairsville. Pair hikes with wineries, orchards, or scenic drives.

Northeast Georgia’s trails and towns, paired with the exceptional hospitality of Mountain Oasis Cabin Rentals, offer the perfect blend of adventure and relaxation. Grab your boots and plan your mountain escape today! Check gastateparks.org or alltrails.com for trail updates.