Comments on: Day-Trippin’ – Country Edition

By: karass

karass — Tue, 09 Mar 2010 17:19:08 +0000

This is a great family weekend. Spend Friday night at Amicalola Lodge so can get early start Saturday morning, then hike up 5 miles with frequent rest stops and snacks, dinner at Hike Inn, relaxation, then back down Sunday. Have done it with a five year old twice–once with a boy and once with a girl. Not a problem as long as you have plenty of time and lots of snacks. One caveat–watch out for the months with a risk of freezing, e.g. December-March. One year, we hiked up in gorgeous sunny weather in the 50s and back down in wet, slushy, icey stuff. The two seven year olds made it down ok but a bit of crying and adult worry was involved. Of course, if people had worn their warm REI boots as I’d suggested…..and I’m talking to the male adults as well as the kids!

Except in December-March, you have to either reserve space way ahead OR call during the week and hope for last minute cancellations. Weekdays are often open, even during the summer, unless it’s a holiday week.

By: RidinWind

RidinWind — Tue, 09 Mar 2010 15:30:39 +0000

Those are great places. I ride the dragon quite often, but Like the cherohala as well.

By: Tom L

Tom L — Tue, 09 Mar 2010 15:00:57 +0000

For the canoeists and kayakers, the boat-in campsites on Carter’s Lake, near Ellijay. Level tent sites, privy toilets, plenty of firewood. Notice: the lake’s water level fluctuates.

By: Tom L

Tom L — Tue, 09 Mar 2010 14:57:35 +0000

For the mountain bikers, Mulberry Gap, near Ft. Mountain. Cabins and a few camp sites, delicious meals, hot tubs. Ride out to the Pinhoti 1, 2, and 3 trails.

By: Tom L

Tom L — Tue, 09 Mar 2010 14:52:56 +0000

The Len Foote Hike Inn, on the Springer Mountain approach trail to the AT. Overnight accommodations in bunk-style cabins, delicious meals, and an opportunity to demonstrate to the kids good eco practices with composting toilets, ktichen waste, water conservation, &tc. Hike from there to the beginning of the Appalachian Trail for a splendid view.

By: mcmillend

mcmillend — Mon, 08 Mar 2010 21:48:58 +0000

ah yes, the Cohutta Wilderness near Lake Conasauga is wonderful unspoiled wilderness! Just watch out for the wild boar up there…

By: David

David — Mon, 08 Mar 2010 20:37:42 +0000

Suches valley and Lake Winfield Scott.
If you’ve got a good vehicle, Lake Conasauga and Grassy Mountain. Many miles of forest road.

By: Harpua

Harpua — Mon, 08 Mar 2010 18:57:32 +0000

Ha! I was going to suggest Raven Cliff Falls. It’s a great day trip!