Springer Mountain Trailhead — Attraction in Dahlonega

Our trail adventure today began at the Long Creek Falls Trailhead and led us all the way to Springer Mountain, the iconic southern terminus of the Appalachian Trail. This journey covered a round trip of just over 9 miles, offering breathtaking scenery and a memorable experience along the way.

The trail itself was captivating, with nature putting on a spectacular winter display. As we hiked, we encountered icicles glistening on the rocks and frozen mist clinging to tree branches, creating a magical, frosty ambiance. The branches looked as though they were coated in snow, transforming the landscape into a stunning winter wonderland. The natural beauty we witnessed was truly magnificent and felt like something straight out of a postcard.

The morning started off quite cold, with a crisp chill in the air, but as the day progressed, the weather turned out to be absolutely perfect for hiking. The combination of cool temperatures and the warmth of the sun made for ideal conditions, allowing us to fully enjoy the trail without feeling overheated or too cold.

The hike to Springer Mountain, steeped in the rich history of the Appalachian Trail, was an inspiring experience. The journey through towering trees and serene forest landscapes made each step worthwhile. Despite the distance, the natural wonders along the way and the sense of accomplishment made this a truly rewarding hike. It’s a day that will stay etched in my memory for...

LOL, I had to question the one hour drive with only 10 miles to go. But it is completely legit. All dirt and stone roads basically going up, in and out of sharp turns, and narrow. Take your time and be careful. We did this in a small utility van with not much for clearance. Most other vehicles we saw were trucks, SUV, or Jeeps. But we did it with no issues just taking our time.

The trail itself...was great. My sons first hike on the AT and in general doing a mountain peak. Myself, this was part of the last 3 states that the AT went through that I had not been in yet. I now have been to each of the 14 states that the AT crosses. 11 of the states with my dog Raylan. Each of the states we walked a mile or more of the AT. These last 3 states, just his ashes were with me.

The hike up to the peak of Springer. In my eyes, easy. Mainly uphill, but like in other states, wide easy to follow the trail with the trademark white AT marks on the trees. Not an overly long trail to follow. You'll find the distancemarked intheparkinglot. Upon reaching the top, you find the markers for Springer and the start...

Lovely hike and views! Drove to springer mountain trailhead— the roads there are dirt/gravel so be careful. Our minivan made it no problem going slow. From the parking lot we hiked up to springer mountain- the official start/end of the Appalachian trail. It was a short, easy hike- about 1 mile each way. Took less than 2 hours with 2 small children hiking with us. Trail has some elevation gain but nothing steep. It’s wide enough for 1-2 people but beware of poison ivy, some is right along the edge of the trail. Nice plaques at the top and views of the mountains, but tons of bugs! We couldn’t stay up there long bc they were just swarming around our heads! Still...