Appalachian Trail

The start of the Appalachian Trail begins at the top of Springer Mountain in southern Fannin County where it begins its 2,000+ mile trek to Maine's Mount Katahdin known as the terminus of the Appalachian Trail.

As the trail follows the eastern ridge of the Appalachian Mountains it passes through 14 states, and although the slogan is "Maine to Georgia," most people hike the trail the other way, Georgia to Maine.

View Trail Guide

Georgia's mild climate plays a role in this, since hikers like to start the 6 month trek in early March. Another reason: the toughest part of the trail, in New Hampshire and Maine is saved for last, when hikers are in condition to handle it.

Georgia has nearly eighty miles of the AT running from Springer Mountain on the Fannin-Gilmer line to Bly Gap, where the trail enters North Carolina. Some excellent backpacking adventures await those who decide to hike the Georgia portion of this National Scenic Trail.

a woman wearing a hiking backpack sits next to the marker at the starting point of the Appalachian Trail in Fannin County, GA

Starting Point of the AT

Springer Mountain

Access to the starting point of the Appalachian Trail is in southern Fannin County at Springer Mountain. From Blue Ridge, take Aska Road 13.5 miles until it dead ends into Newport Road. Turn right on Newport Road, go 4.5 miles until it dead ends into Doublehead Gap. Turn right on Doublehead Gap and go 2 miles to FS Road 42 (on the left). Turn left and go approximately 6.5 to 7 miles to the parking area on your left. A short hike from the parking lot (across the street) leads to the summit.

Three Forks

A junction of the Appalachian Trail and Benton MacKaye Trail, located on FS Road 58 on Noontootla Creek. You can also start a 3.7 mile hike to Springer Mountain from Three Forks. From Blue Ridge, go south on Aska Road to the end. Turn right onto Newport Road, go 4.5 miles to end. Turn left onto Doublehead Gap Road, cross a concrete bridge, where the road will become dirt/gravel. Continue .3 miles, just past the church and cemetery you will turn right onto dirt/gravel Forest Service Road 58. Drive a scenic 5.3 miles to the Three Forks area. There will be a hikers crossing sign. From here you can hike across the bridge for the 3.7 mile hike to Springer Mountain, the start of the Appalachian Trail.

Long Creek Falls

The trail head is on your left as you drive in, opposite of Noontootla Creek which you will see with the trail bridge crossing it on your right. It starts as a gradual hike alongside Long Creek. There are three short ascents before reaching the blue blazed side trail to the falls, total hike is 1.1 miles.

There are three day-use parking areas covering the Fannin County section of the Appalachian Trail, two on FS 42 (Springer Mountain and Hightower Gap) and on FS 58 at Three Forks.

Appalachian Trail Access Points

Frequently Asked Questions

Where does the Appalachian Trail start and end?

The Appalachian Trail starts at Springer Mountain in Fannin County and stretches all the way to Maine, the trail is the longest hiking-only trail among the three National Scenic Trails and is the longest hiking-only footpath in the world.

How difficult is the Appalachian Trail in Georgia?

Navigating the Appalachian Trail in Georgia can be quite challenging for hikers, particularly those not used to long-distance hiking or rugged, rocky terrain. Despite these challenges, many hikers find the Georgia section of the Appalachian Trail to be rewarding and full of breathtaking scenic views.

How many thru-hikers complete the Appalachian Trail each year?

Each year, the Appalachian Trail attracts over 3 million visitors, with more than 3,000 individuals daring to take on the ambitious challenge of "thru-hiking" the entire trail in a single year.

A Word to the Wise

Be prepared for wilderness. Some roads are rough. Please pack in all you will need and pack out all your trash. The rule of the forest is “Leave No Trace.” If you build a fire, never leave it unattended. Use good judgment when hiking, particularly around waterfalls where rocks are often wet, moss covered and slippery. If hiking during hunting season, wear a brightly colored vest. The most effective way to prevent mishaps is to adequately prepare for the trip. Knowledge of the area, weather, terrain, limitations of your body, plus common sense can help to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.