Dockery Lake to Preaching Rock, via Appalachian Trail

This is an in and out hike with a total distance of 10.2 miles and vertical rise of 1,550 feet. Overall, the hike offers views of Dockery Lake, scenic creeks, dark hemlock forests, and vistas from Preaching Rock. It is among the closest to Atlanta of any hike in the Blue Ridge.  

The trip leader will go at a leisurely to moderate pace, e.g., 2.5 mph, with stops to take breaks and pictures on the trail.

This hike starts at Dockery Lake just 12 miles north of Dahlonega, GA. We will go 3.6 miles on the Dockery Lake Trail to reach the Appalachian Trail. We will then make a left on the Appalachian Trail and continue hiking for 1.4 miles until we reach Big Cedar Mountain. A blue-blazed side trail will take us to a scenic overlook called Preaching Rock. Here, at 3,600 feet, we will have a south-easterly view of the mountains, valleys, and Piedmont. Plan to relax and have lunch at this location.  From there, it's back down the way we came to our cars.

North on GA 400 from the park and ride. When GA 400 ends at the Chevron station make a left onto US-19/GA60 until you reach Dahlonega. We will make a pit stop at the McDonalds there.  It will be on your left on US-19/GA-60 in Dahlonega.  From Dahlonega, take GA 60 north for 12 miles. Turn right at the sign for Dockery Lake on Forest Road 654 for 1 mile. Pass through the campground, then stay right to reach the day-use parking area. The Dockery Lake Trail starts on the right side of the parking area.