Preacher's Rock — Attraction in Dahlonega

The view was everything I wanted for my 30th birthday photoshoot. My look was inspired by Kida from Atlantis: the lost empire. (Pictures edited by me)

Completely breath taking. The horizon is stretched out like the ocean. The wind was howling like the waves. It truly was remarkable to stand there at the edge.

A lot of reviews on Google helped me so much. Thank you to EVERYONE for contributing your experience and giving insight on what it's like to get there, as well as posting pictures. Because of the reviews, it gave me confidence in choosing this location for my photoshoot.

Here is my advice and insight.

For people who hike all the time and are constantly visiting new locations, this will probably be a breeze to you. You know the equipment to wear and what to bring. You're good.

For others like me who don't know what to expect, and do not hike frequently (or ever) here's some tips...

Footwear I wore very good boots. They are not made for hiking but I knew the souls would be perfect for my feet. They are steel toe shoes which actually protected my toes a few times when I banged my foot against some rocks. However, they rubbed a severe blister on the back of one of my heels. So be sure to wear something that is supportive but also comfortable.

Refreshments I brought snacks and water with me just in case. We didn't eat, but we did take a few breaks to drink some good h2o. I also brought a garbage bag just in case. So be sure to at least bring water with you.

Directions I thought me and my friend was going in the wrong direction to Preacher's Rock. Some reviews said it was about a mile hike to get there. I turned around and ran into some boys and asked for directions. Turns out I was heading in the right direction. So, when you get there to Woody Gap, walk past the public restrooms and keep going straight. It's a winding path for a very long way, but then you finally begin to see large rocks. Once you see these rocks, you know you're getting close. You'll begin a steep, winding ascent with more large rocks to step over. Finally you'll begin to see large white boulders. This is right before you reach the outlook. A few more winding turns and you'll come to an open, flat area. Congratulations! You've arrived!! Enjoy the view.

Things you will see on the hike Lots and LOTS of roots from trees. Please be careful and watch your step. Some large rocks. Some steep places you will have to step up too. (This may be challenging for people with knee issues.) Some places are narrow and you could fall. Again, watch your step.

Lastly.... BRING TOILET PAPER I always carry some with me and I'm glad I did. The public bathroom had no toilet paper. So bring your own, just in case. ;)

I hope this helped any newbies out there. Thank you to everyone who helped us find the way. Everyone was so friendly so if you do need help, I'm sure someone would be...

A beautiful, moderate hike! We came in the middle of spring, and it's so gorgeous. The wildflowers are in bloom and the birds were singing! The hike is a little under 2mi out-and-back. The first 3/4 of the hike is really easy: gentle elevation gains and mostly flat. The last quarter is sharp and steep switchbacks. If you're out of shape and a novice hiker (like me), this part is a little difficult. That being said, there a lot of places to catch your breath and enjoy the view. We saw a lot of dogs, so bring your pups if they like the outdoors! The view is incredible and definitely worth it. This was my first time here, so I didn't know where I was going. I mistakenly got on the AT by the overlook parking, so be sure to enter by the restrooms! I would actually recommend hiking part of that side either before or after making the trek to Preacher's Rock; it was lovely and had quite a few little streams that ran across the trail (and it's pretty flat for...

Beautiful overlook/rock outcrop about a mile from the Woody Gap trail access. You will walk northbound on the Appalachian Trail (white blazes) from the parking area at Woody Gap. Be prepared for colder and winder conditions at Prescher's Rock than at surrounding areas because it's at a slightly higher elevation and exposed to the weather.

The section of the Appalachian Trail that you must hike on to access Preacher's Rock is relatively easy. The last quarter mile of the approach is steep and has several places where you must step up 18-24 inches. Experienced hikers will have no problem, but weekend warriors and suburbanites might find it moderately challenging. Know your abilities and be honest about both your experience level and physical fitness before you attempt to hike to Preacher's Rock.

Note that this site can also be accessed by hiking south on the AT from Slaughter...