georgia trail – Wandering the Gap

With fall in full swing and spooky season right around the corner, there’s no better time to embark on some creepy Georgia hikes. Georgia boasts many exceptional trails that are best enjoyed when the air is crisp and the leaves are changing colors. From a remote island with centuries-old ruins to iconic peaks harboring horrific backstories, these are the most creepy Georgia hikes to tackle this fall.

1. Blood Mountain

Creepy Georgia hikes, by travel blogger Wandering the Gap

The name alone makes Blood Mountain a must-visit destination this October. As the tallest peak on the Georgia section of the Appalachian Trail, Blood Mountain is an excellent adventure for both long-distance backpackers and day-trippers. There are several routes to the summit, but the 4-mile-long trek along the Byron Reece Trail is one of the most popular.

According to Cherokee mythology, the mountain was once home to Nunnehi, or spirit people. Some claim Blood Mountain earned its name from a 1700s-era battle between the Cherokee and Muscogee (Creek) Nations. Others, meanwhile, attribute it to the red lichen that grows atop the summit.

2. Raven Cliff Falls

For ultimate spooky vibes, tackle the hike to Raven Cliff Falls. The almost 5-mile-long trail is relatively moderate, with just a little over 600′ of elevation gain, making it a top choice during summer. However, I think Raven Cliff Falls shines in the fall, when conditions are rainy and overcast.

You’ll have to take extra care watching your steps to ensure you don’t slip on the mud or rocks, but the effort is well worth it. Raven Cliff Falls is a gorgeous spot to bundle up and spend a chilly afternoon.

3. Springer Mountain

Springer Mountain is one of Georgia’s most prolific hikes, thanks to its status as the southern terminus of the Appalachian Trail. Most hikers reach the summit via the 8-mile-long Appalachian Approach Trail, which begins at Amicalola Falls. Camping at Springer Mountain is an essential trip for any Georgia-based hiker or backpacker. If you tackle it during fall or winter, you’ll likely be treated to an eerie atmosphere when mist and frost cover the summit in the early morning hours.

4. Cumberland Island

In my opinion, Cumberland Island is among Georgia’s best-kept secrets. Located a 45-minute ferry ride off the coast of St. Marys, this picturesque area features pristine shorelines, thick forests, and herds of wild horses that you can explore on over 50 miles of trails. While the entire island has a mysterious air about it (in part because it’s undeveloped and incredibly remote), Dungeness Ruins in particular are a must-see for lovers of all things eerie and offbeat.

The crumbling structure was once a 35,000-square-foot mansion first built in the 1880s. Sadly, a fire broke out in 1959 that reduced the opulent home to nothing more than bricks and stones. The ruins are a fascinating slice of history and have an undeniably creepy vibe that’s worth experiencing in person.

5. Mount Yonah

Though Mount Yonah is a beautiful North Georgia hiking and rock-climbing spot, the legends surrounding it are incredibly tragic. According to Native American lore, it’s the site where two lovers, Nacoochee, a Cherokee woman, and Sautee, a Chickasaw man, met their final demise. Since Nacoochee and Sautee were members of opposing tribes, the elders forbade their love. When their relationship came to light, an angry mob chased the couple to the mountain, throwing Sautee off. Nacoochee was so heartbroken that she jumped from the summit to join him in the afterlife.

Despite this dark tale, Mount Yonah is a wonderful place to visit for a few hours or camp overnight. Hiking to the summit is a nice challenge, as the trail gains almost 1500′ of elevation over about two miles. The views from the top of Mount Yonah are spectacular, especially at sunrise and sunset.

I hope my guide to the most creepy Georgia hikes inspires you to tap into your spooky side this fall!

Preachers Rock is a beautiful summit in Georgia located along the Appalachian Trail. There are several options to hike to the viewpoint, but one of the most popular begins at Woody Gap. This 2 mile out-and-back hike is short and relatively easy, making it a great day hike for hikers of all experience levels.

The hike to Preachers Rock begins at the Woody Gap parking area off GA Hwy 60, just outside the town of Dahlonega. White blazes mark the route to Preachers Rock along the Appalachian Trail, which heads northeast through the woods. Spring is a beautiful time to do this hike, as plants will be blooming and conditions won’t be as humid as they become in the summer months. The trail is very easygoing for the first 3/4 mile with minimal elevation change as you make your way to Preachers Rock.

The last 1/4 mile or so is the most challenging part of the hike to Preachers Rock. You’ll begin to head uphill as you approach the summit, and there are a number of switchbacks and stone steps along the trail. It isn’t long before you arrive to Preachers Rock, a rocky viewpoint that overlooks the Blue Ridge Mountains.

Make sure to take your time appreciating the beautiful views from Preachers Rock. This is a great spot to kick back for awhile and enjoy a snack or some lunch (make sure to leave no trace and pack out all your trash). The hike back to the Woody Gap parking area is very easy aand straightforward, though you will want to watch your step on the steeper sections to ensure you don’t trip.

Preachers Rock is one of my favorite hikes along the Georgia section of the Appalachian Trail. It’s also a great hike for beginners, and I’ve taken several friends up it as their first official hike. Have you done this hike before? Let me know in the comments!