Appalachian Trail: Woody Gap to Gooch Gap Mountain Shelter

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Features Fall Colors · River/Creek · Views · Wildlife

This section of the AT makes for a great day hike.

Leaving westbound from Woody Gap, this trail is relatively flat for about the first half mile, crossing a creek bed that may or may not be dry, depending on how much rain the area has received. The trail then proceeds to follow the ridge lines, mixing in incredible views of the North Georgia mountains with steep ascents and descents.The trail itself is fairly technical, being very rocky as well as steep.

As a popular day-use area, and a part of the Appalachian Trail, this trail sees a lot of traffic, especially in March and April, when the through-hikers are in the area. There is a reliable stream near Gooch Gap Mountain Shelter. A side trail marked with a blue blaze leads you down a hill until you reach the stream. Another good stream is located at Gooch Gap just down the hill.

This trail, as part of the Appalachian Trail, is marked with white blazes and is very easy to follow.