| Georgia |
| Backpacking Guide |
| Backpacking in Georgia | ||
Description - There are two National Forests in Georgia, the Chattahoochee and the Oconee. The Chattahoochee covers 749,000 acres stretching from the Wild and Scenic waters of the Chattooga River on its northeastern boundary, through the Blue Ridge Mountains and across the ridges and valleys of northwest Georgia. Georgia's National Forests are said to be a hiker's paradise. Winding trails lead visitors through scenic mountains and rolling hills, by wild rushing rivers and cascading waterfalls. They also lead visitors through the history books: Spanish conquistador Hernando do Soto's futile search for gold, the United States' first frenzied gold rush, the Cherokee Indians' struggle to hold on to their lands, and major battles of the Civil War. Ten wildernesses, 1,367 miles of trout streams, and 430 miles of trails enrich the Chattahoochee National Forest. The famous 2,135-mile Appalachian Trail begins here and hardy hikers don't see the end until they reach Maine.
The Oconee covers 115,000 acres in central Georgia. Unlike the tall peaks of the Chattahoochee, this National Forest is relatively flat with small hills. Lakes, rivers, and wildlife are the outstanding features of the Oconee. Visit Lake Oconee, Hillsboro Lake, or 15,300 acre Lake Sinclair for swimming, fishing, boating and camping. If a wealth of trails is the hallmark of the Chattahoochee, bountiful game is the signature of the area. There are also plenty of excellent fishing opportunities. Near Lake Oconee, an easy 1-mile trail leads to Scull Shoals. The site of Georgia's first cotton gin and paper mill, Scull Shoals is a crumbling ghost town. Tumbling walls and other ruins still stand amidst the lush forest and quiet waters. A short trail leads to two prehistoric Indian mounds. Recreation - Hiking trails are near major recreation areas. Three trails in the Oconee are suitable for horseback riding near the Ocmulgee River. The 1-mile Burgess Mountain Trail reaches the highest point on the Forest, at 645 feet, and is open to horseback riding. With over 430 miles of trails on the Chattahoochee, it's hard to find an area without some type of footpath. From short day hikes to more arduous trips, for novices or experts, there is a trail for every level and purpose. Water Recreation: In the Oconee Lake Sinclair is a popular lake for swimming, fishing, and boating. The Oconee River is an excellent canoeing river, with Oconee River Campground the favorite launching point. In the Chattahoochee, the Chattooga Wild and Scenic River is popular for guided raft trips. The Chattahoochee and Toccoa Rivers are popular for canoes or kayaks. Fishing: Spring catches of red-breast sunfish, particularly in the Ocmulgee River, are considered exceptional. Lake Oconee is well known for its crappie and other fish. Within the Chattahoochee over 1,300 miles of trout streams on the Forest, there are plenty of opportunities to catch trout, walleye, bluegill and bass. The two forests cover enough area that even the most diehard backpacker can go for years without seeing the same trail twice. | ||
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