Blood Mountain Loop Day Hike with Photography

This is a classic loop hike to the highest point on the Appalachian trail in Georgia - Blood Mountain - beginning at Lake Winfield Scott.

This will be a a moderately paced hike with sporadic stops to photograph the colors that should be out.  There is about 1500 feet in elevation gain, so if you must be in reasonably good shape to do this; you should be able to hike about a 2.5 mph pace.  Beginning at Lake Winfield Scott park, we'll hike up the West face of Blood Mountain along the Slaughter Creek trail. After 3.5 miles, we'll reach the top of Blood Mountain.  We'll probably spend about 60 minutes at the summit enjoying lunch and the views, taking photos.  Then we'll hike out along the A.T. and the Jarrard Gap trail, which will return us to Lake Winfield Scott.

There area  couple small creeks that dogs may drink water from, if you bring a dog.  And, if you bring a dog, you should expect to drive your own vehicle.

A smoke-free event please.

North on GA 400. Take a left onto SR 60/19 toward Dahlonega. At the fork of SR 60 and SR 19, go straight on SR 60 to Suches. Take a right on SR 180.  The entrance to the Lake Winfield Scott Recreation Area is on the right, approximately 7-8 miles on after you turn onto SR 180.  As you drive toward the lake, past the campground, the parking lot is located on the left, just before you get to the bridge. The trailhead is located across the bridge and to your right.

Parking is $5 per day.