Dahlonega is a beautiful small town any time of year, but it really hits different in the fall. Whether you consider yourself adventurous or not, you have probably hiked one of the many trails around North Georgia. With the Appalachian Trail nearby, there are plenty of options for students, locals and visitors alike. So, if you are ready to take in the fall foliage, look no further than these great spots.
Preacher’s Rock
This classic hike is a must-do for anyone at the University of North Georgia. The trail been a popular choice for years, and for good reason – offering breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding North Georgia mountains and valleys. In the fall, vibrant hues of red, orange and yellow are everywhere you look.
“The leaves are pretty during that time of year. It’s close to campus, a good hike for beginners because it’s not as strenuous. It’s not too long because it’s only about a mile. It’s a beautiful view of trees and mountains in North Georgia,” said Taylor Whitmire, UNG alum.
“I think Preacher’s Rock is a great hike to do because the cool air is an advantage to the steep elevation. The views are multiplied with the depths of color you get during this time of year,” said Grace King, a teacher at Lumpkin County Middle School.
Black Mountain Fire Tower
Located in Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest, this popular hiking destination is another favorite among students. Similar to Preacher’s Rock, this trail is short at 1.8 miles, but it’s all uphill and rocky. Although it requires a bit more skill, the climb is well worth it for the stunning colors visible from above.
“It’s a hidden gem. It’s definitely not an easy hike but the 360 view of the North Georgia mountains is unbeatable. It’s steep, but the area at the top is great because you have the pretty view but there’s also room to set up a fire and roast marshmallows. It’s the perfect spot to see all the fall foliage from the bottom to the very top,” said Sydney Kerns, UNG alum.
Yonah Mountain
Standing over 4,000 feet tall, this granite peak offers a moderately challenging hike that rewards you with stunning autumnal views that stretch for miles. This trail winds you through lush forests filled with diverse plant life, supplying a wide array of fall foliage. At the summit, there are unique rock formations and a rich history tied to Native American culture.
“In the beginning of the hike, all you see is forest and in the fall when you get to see all the different colored leaves, it’s gorgeous. As you go along, you start to feel like it’s not going to end because it’s a longer hike than most. However, once you get to the main lookout, it is all worth it. I swear you can see from towns and towns over, it feels like you are flying over it,” said Jake Cantrell, UNG alum and freelance sports journalist.
Blood Mountain
Known for its rugged beauty, Blood Mountain is part of the Appalachian Trail and is rich in natural beauty. The hike is challenging due to rocky terrain and steep ascents, but the reward is immense. The wide-scale views showcase layers of mountains stretching into the distance, with scenic overlooks along the way that highlight the stunning fall colors.
“Blood Mountain is a popular hike in the fall because of the changing leaves that offer an even more beautiful view at the summit. I would say that the effort to reward is unmatched. It’s a very strenuous hike, but the view when you get to the top is fantastic,” said Kalvin Kerns, UNG alum and security technical specialist at IBM.
