*Hike ’n Splash* - Cartecay River Loop

I am planning several *Hike ‘n Splash* hikes this summer. I have done a few last summer as participant.  However, I have not yet led these kind of hikes, thus the designation “Exploratory”.  Be assured that I prepare for those hike … maps, GPS, water filter, first aid kit, etc.  If you have any suggestions for a nice *Hike ‘n Splash* destination, please let me know.  All these hikes should be D2s, D3s, or an “easy” D4 … because I’d like the “not yet advanced", and/or new members of the AOC to enjoy a day of hiking at/to a river or waterfall without getting anxious or exhausted. Sounds good?

Please join me on the River Loop Trail which is outside of Ellijay in the Rich Mountain Wilderness Area. We'll hike to the river, hang out on the rocks for some lunch, swimming, sunning and play. Once we've had enough - probably around 2 hours total - we'll head back to the cars.

Best guess is that we'll be back at Chastain around 5PM.

For the GPSlers amoung you:

• Latitude:     34.646363 
• Longitude: -84.438419

Directions to the trail head

Turn right on Chastain, Take 575 North, it becomes 515, stop at the East Elijay McDonalds (on the left at the intersection of Maddox Road and 515) to collect everyone and make sure we make the last few turns together. This is your bathroom break.  

We will continue North on 515 to Route 52, turn right on to Route 52.

Your are now heading east on 52 towards Dahlonega.  Continue on 52, make a right on Mulkey Road (just past the Oak Hill United Methodist Church – same side on the road). 

Take first right onto Martin, continue down Martin to a gravel road, stay on the gravel road until it dead ends (not very far).  This is the Rich Mountain WMA.

The River Loop Trail