Arkaquah Trail - Track Rock Gap to Brasstown Bald

After a significant (and difficult) climb in the beginning of the hike, much of the Arkaquah Trail rolls and meanders along a ridge line and offers many beautiful open vistas of the north Georgia mountains. At the end of the trail, we will summit Brasstown Bald for additional spectacular views from the highest point in Georgia.

Beginning at Track Rock Gap, a former Cherokee village, we will climb to Buzzard Roost Ridge, enduring the most difficult part of the hike, gaining 1435 feet in elevation in only 1.7 miles. We will then pass through Low Gap and to the summit of Chimney Top Mountain. After reaching the end of the Arkaquah Trail (at the Brasstown Bald parking lot), we will climb an additional 1000 feet to the top of Brasstown Bald. We will have our snack/lunch and return to Track Rock Gap.

This is a strenuous hike, covering approximately 12 miles and including approximately 4000 feet in elevation gain. Only advanced hikers with D5 experience (or with significant D4 experience) should register. If you do not have such experience on your AOC resume, the TL may contact you to discuss whether it is in your best interest to remain on the hike.

Following the hike, we will have dinner together in Dahlonega and revel in our accomplishment, while ingesting ibuprofen.

The time estimate is only an estimate. It could be shorter or longer, depending on the abilities of our participants. Because Monday is a holiday, we do not plan to rush. If you cannot stay for dinner, or need to be back in Atlanta by a specific time, you should consider driving separately to the event.

From the Park & Ride - north on Georgia 400 to Dahlonega. Follow US-19/GA-60 North,  past Vogel State Park, then take a right on State Road 180 East. Go 2.4 miles and turn left at Town Creek School Rd. Go 2 miles and turn right on Trackrock Church Rd. Take another right onto Trackrock Gap Rd. The parking lot at the trailhead is on the left.