Discover the best hiking trails, waterfalls, mountain views, family-friendly adventures, and hidden gems in the North Georgia Mountains.
The Quick Answer
Looking for the best hiking trails near Blue Ridge and Ellijay? The top hikes include the Aska Trail System, Long Creek Falls, Fall Branch Falls, Stanley Gap Trail, Bear Creek Trail, Benton MacKaye Trail, Springer Mountain, Emery Creek Falls, and Blood Mountain. Whether you’re looking for an easy family walk, a challenging mountain adventure, or a beautiful waterfall, North Georgia offers some of the best hiking in the Southeast—all within a short drive of Morning Breeze’s cabin rentals.
Why Hike in the Blue Ridge & Ellijay Area?
Few destinations offer the variety of hiking experiences you’ll find in the North Georgia Mountains. Within an hour’s drive, you can explore waterfalls, mountain summits, peaceful rivers, old-growth forests, scenic overlooks, and portions of the famous Appalachian Trail.
For more than 15 years, guests of Morning Breeze Cabin Rentals have returned year after year to enjoy these incredible outdoor adventures. Whether you’re visiting for a romantic getaway, a family vacation, or a weekend with friends, hiking is one of the best ways to experience the beauty of Blue Ridge and Ellijay.
Best Hiking Trails at a Glance
| Trail | Difficulty | Round Trip | Highlights | Family Friendly |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Long Creek Falls | Easy | 2.0 miles | Waterfall | ✔ |
| Fall Branch Falls | Easy | 1.0 mile | Waterfall | ✔ |
| Toccoa River Swinging Bridge | Easy | Short Walk | River Views | ✔ |
| Stanley Gap Trail | Moderate | 4.8 miles | Mountain Views | ✔ |
| Benton MacKaye Trail | Moderate | Varies | Appalachian Scenery | ✔ |
| Bear Creek Trail | Moderate | Multiple Options | Creek & Gennett Poplar | ✔ |
| Emery Creek Falls | Moderate | 6.0 miles | Two Waterfalls | Older Kids |
| Blood Mountain | Difficult | 4.3 miles | Summit Views | ✘ |
What Are the Best Easy Hiking Trails Near Blue Ridge?
Long Creek Falls
One of North Georgia’s most popular waterfall hikes, Long Creek Falls is perfect for families and beginner hikers. The trail follows part of the Appalachian Trail before reaching a beautiful cascading waterfall tucked into the forest.
Highlights of Long Creek Falls
- Beautiful year-round waterfall
- Family friendly
- Dog friendly
- Excellent spring wildflowers
- Great photography
What Hikers Are Saying About Long Creek Falls
“Easy hike and beautiful falls. We went as a group and it was easy to keep together. Once you get to the falls you can continue hiking to the top, but that is a bit more of a challenge—and rewarding.”
Fall Branch Falls
This short trail rewards hikers with one of the area’s prettiest waterfalls after only a brief walk. It’s an excellent choice for young children or visitors looking for a relaxing outdoor adventure.
Fall Branch Falls is Best For
- Families
- Seniors
- Beginner hikers
- Picnic outings
What Hikers Are Saying About Fall Branch Falls
“This short hike is doable for those of any level and rewards you at the end with a nice rocky little waterfall.”
Toccoa River Swinging Bridge
Although not a traditional hike, the walk to Georgia’s longest swinging bridge is one of the area’s most enjoyable outdoor experiences. The bridge crosses the beautiful Toccoa River and offers outstanding photo opportunities.
What Hikers Are Saying About Toccoa River Swinging Bridge
“Good hike for all ages with a fun bridge over a gorgeous section of the river.”
What Are the Best Moderate Hikes?
Stanley Gap Trail
Located within the Aska Adventure Area, Stanley Gap is one of the most rewarding hikes near Blue Ridge. During spring, mountain laurel and rhododendron line the trail, while fall brings spectacular foliage.
Highlights of Stanley Gap Trail
- Mountain vistas
- Creek crossings
- Peaceful forest
- Moderate elevation gain
Benton MacKaye Trail
Named after the visionary who first imagined the Appalachian Trail, the Benton MacKaye Trail offers a quieter hiking experience through the Chattahoochee National Forest. Several trailheads near Blue Ridge provide outstanding day hikes featuring peaceful forests, creek crossings, and beautiful mountain scenery.
Perfect for hikers looking to escape the crowds while still enjoying some of North Georgia’s most scenic landscapes.
Bear Creek Trail
Bear Creek is often considered one of North Georgia’s hidden gems. The trail follows a beautiful mossy, fern-filled creek valley through the Chattahoochee National Forest before reaching the Gennett Poplar, the second-largest living tree in Georgia.
Many locals return here throughout the year because every season offers something different.
What Hikers Are Saying About Bear Creek Trail
“Nice hike in the woods with the kids. The Poplar was about a mile in and a great photo opportunity.”
Looking for a Challenge? These are the Best Difficult Hikes in North Georgia!
Emery Creek Falls
This hike features numerous creek crossings before arriving at two beautiful waterfalls hidden deep within the forest. Good footwear is essential, especially after rain.
Highlights of Emery Creek Falls
- Multiple stream crossings
- Moderate climbing
- Incredible waterfalls
- Less crowded than many popular trails
Blood Mountain
As the highest summit on the Georgia section of the Appalachian Trail, Blood Mountain rewards experienced hikers with panoramic views stretching across the Blue Ridge Mountains.
Although challenging, many hikers consider it one of the best day hikes in Georgia.
What Hikers Are Saying About Blood Mountain
“This was a fairly intense 3.5-hour hike, but the views at the end were well worth it!”
Can You Hike the Appalachian Trail Near Blue Ridge?
Absolutely! The famous Appalachian Trail begins at Springer Mountain, located about an hour from Blue Ridge. Even if you don’t plan to hike all 2,000+ miles, visiting the southern terminus is a memorable experience.
Many visitors enjoy hiking a short section of the trail simply to say they’ve walked part of America’s most famous long-distance hiking route.
What is the Aska Trail System?
If you only have time for one hiking destination during your vacation, the Aska Trail System should be at the top of your list.
Located just outside Blue Ridge, this 17-mile network of interconnected hiking and mountain biking trails offers something for every skill level—from easy family-friendly walks to strenuous climbs for experienced hikers. You’ll enjoy peaceful hardwood forests, scenic mountain overlooks, creek crossings, and access to some of the most beautiful landscapes in the Chattahoochee National Forest.
Popular trails include:
- Stanley Gap Trail
- Flat Creek Loop
- Long Branch Loop
- Several connector trails
One of the best parts about staying with Morning Breeze Cabin Rentals is that several of our cabins are located just minutes from the Aska Adventure Area, making it easy to spend the day exploring the trails before returning to relax in your private hot tub or enjoy dinner on the deck with mountain views.
Best Waterfall Hikes
If waterfalls are at the top of your North Georgia bucket list, don’t miss:
- Long Creek Falls
- Fall Branch Falls
- Emery Creek Falls
- Amicalola Falls
- Helton Creek Falls
- DeSoto Falls
- Sea Creek Falls
Featured Waterfall Hike: Amicalola Falls
Standing 729 feet tall, Amicalola Falls is Georgia’s tallest cascading waterfall and one of the state’s most iconic natural attractions. Visitors can choose several hiking routes, including the popular trail from the Visitor Center to the top of the falls.
What Hikers Are Saying About Amicoloa Falls
“This was a family hike and it was a bit strenuous, but it is beautiful. We started at the Visitor Center and walked the trail to the top, then finished with the steps down the waterfall. One hundred percent worth the visit.”
What are the Best Hikes for Families?
Traveling with children? These trails are excellent choices:
- Long Creek Falls
- Fall Branch Falls
- Toccoa River Swinging Bridge
- Springer Mountain Approach
- Bear Creek Trail
These hikes offer manageable distances while still providing beautiful scenery and memorable experiences.
Are Dogs Allowed on North Georgia Hiking Trails?
Many North Georgia trails welcome dogs on a leash. Some of the most popular dog-friendly hikes include:
- Aska Trail System
- Bear Creek Trail
- Long Creek Falls
- Stanley Gap Trail
- Benton MacKaye Trail
Always bring water, waste bags, and remember that mountain temperatures can become surprisingly warm during summer.
When is the Best Time of Year to Hike in North Georgia?
Spring
This is the ideal time to hike if you enjoy seeing all of our beautiful blooming trees and flowers, including rhododendron and mountain laurel. The weather is perfect, and with our spring showers, you may catch a view of a rushing waterfall
Summer
Ideal for shaded forest hikes and waterfall adventures. Start early to beat the afternoon heat.
Fall
Arguably the most spectacular hiking season in North Georgia, with vibrant fall foliage from mid-October through early November.
Winter
Fewer crowds, crisp mountain views with no obstructions, and peaceful trails make winter an underrated time to explore.
Hiking Safety Tips in Blue Ridge & Ellijay
Before heading out:
- Carry plenty of water
- Wear sturdy hiking shoes
- Download trail maps before leaving
- Tell someone where you’re hiking
- Stay on marked trails
- Respect wildlife
- Practice Leave No Trace principles
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the easiest hike near Blue Ridge?
Long Creek Falls and Fall Branch Falls are among the easiest and most rewarding hikes for visitors of all ages.
Which hike has the best mountain views?
Blood Mountain, Stanley Gap Trail, and Springer Mountain all offer spectacular panoramic views.
What is the best waterfall hike?
Long Creek Falls is often considered the best combination of accessibility, scenery, and beauty.
Are there hikes close to downtown Blue Ridge?
Yes. The Aska Trail System and several other excellent trails are just a short drive from downtown Blue Ridge.
Are hiking trails open year-round?
Most National Forest trails remain open year-round, though temporary closures can occur due to severe weather or maintenance.
Stay Near North Georgia’s Best Hiking Trails
Many of Morning Breeze Cabin Rentals’ mountain cabins are conveniently located near the Aska Trail System and other popular hiking destinations throughout Blue Ridge and Ellijay. Spend the day exploring waterfalls, mountain overlooks, and scenic forests before returning to relax in your private cabin, soak in a hot tub, enjoy a crackling fire pit, or unwind on a deck overlooking the mountains.
Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway, a family vacation, or an outdoor adventure with friends, Morning Breeze Cabin Rentals is the perfect home base for discovering the natural beauty of North Georgia.
Plan Your North Georgia Hiking Vacation
The mountains are calling! Browse our collection of luxury cabins in Blue Ridge and Ellijay and start planning your next hiking adventure. At Morning Breeze Cabin Rentals, you can choose from cozy creekside retreats to spacious mountain lodges, but we know that you’ll find the perfect place to relax after a memorable day on the trail.
