Byron Reece Trailhead Parking — Attraction in Georgia

The hike from here up to Blood Mountain is one of my favorites. Parking here is limited and will fill up by mid morning depending on the day and time of year. We hiked on a Friday in early November and arrived around 8:30am with no issue. The trail up is a bit strenuous at points, mainly because of rock steps. Strongly recommend hiking in the fall for the colors and cool weather. One thing we noticed is that after getting on to the Appalachian Trail portion of the hike, there were some markers that were either missing or easy to miss in spots. It was only an issue for us in one particular spot where we weren’t sure where to turn. We met others on the trail that noticed the same issue. It’s a little easier to lose the trail in the fall with all the leaves on the ground as well, but not a serious concern. Awesome views at the overlook and a cool stone shelter as well. Make sure to sign your names in the book at...

Byron Reece is the trailhead access for parking to day hike Blood Mountain. My wife and I were surprised at what an aggressive hike Blood Mountain is overall, but after doing it a few times, it really isn't all that bad. The first 2 miles from leaving the trail head parking lot take you to the top of the mountain, heavily vertical up stone steps.

We enjoy going down the back of the mountain and curling around to the Freeman Trail. It creates a 6 mile loop from parking lot back to lot. Freeman is... Very rocky, and it sort of requires some technical footing. It is VERY poorly marked, but it felt like you weren't likely to lose the trail.

I strongly recommend checking out the loop or just doing the vigorous hike up to the summit. You will know you are OFFICIALLY there once you get to the stone cottage that exists for...

You need a lot of time and energy to get to the overlooked! We took the Byron Reece trail to the Appalachian Trail up Blood Mountain. We ran out of time and didn't get to the top, but still really enjoyed it. We got just past Brandenburg Steps (it's on Google Maps, but no sign or marker on the trail). We had our two labrador retrievers with us, which made it a little more challenging, but it's a steep and rocky trail, so be prepared. Sorry my pics aren't great. I was in a hurry, usually had a dog on leash in one hand pulling on me while trying to be sure I didn't fall, and I just did a quick video where we stopped and then got screenshots from it. It was October 8, 2020, and there was enough color in the leaves to feel like it was really fall, and yet there were still a lot of wildflowers blooming. ...