Top 5 Best Hiking Trails in Blue Ridge, GA – From Easy to Challenging

Nestled in the heart of the North Georgia mountains, Blue Ridge is a hiker's paradise with trails for all skill levels. Whether you're seeking a family-friendly stroll or a challenging backcountry adventure, there’s a perfect trail for you. Here's my list of the top 5 best hiking trails in Blue Ridge, ranked by difficulty from easy to tough. Let's lace up those hiking boots and hit the trail!

Long Creek Falls Trail

• Difficulty: ★☆☆☆☆ (Easy)

• Length: 2 miles round trip

• Duration: ~1 hour

• Family-friendly: Yes, great for all ages (ages 4+ can walk with some assistance)

• Highlights: Gorgeous waterfall, lush forest, and wildflowers in spring.

• Note: Shared with mountain bikers.

This short hike is perfect for families and beginners. Located along the famous Appalachian Trail, Long Creek Falls is a peaceful 50-foot waterfall. You'll walk through a shady forest, with lots of spots to stop and enjoy the scenery. The trail is fairly flat with a mild incline near the falls, making it suitable even for younger kids, though you'll want to keep an eye on the little ones due to some uneven ground.

Fall Branch Falls

• Difficulty: ★★☆☆☆ (Easy/Moderate)

• Length: 1 mile round trip

• Duration: ~30-45 minutes

• Family-friendly: Yes, ages 6+

• Highlights: Double-tiered waterfall, rhododendron groves.

• Note: Occasional mountain bike traffic.

If you’re looking for a shorter hike with a big payoff, Fall Branch Falls offers a scenic stroll that leads to a stunning double waterfall. This well-maintained trail is family-friendly but has some steep sections that might be a little challenging for toddlers or very young children. It’s a wonderful quick hike with plenty of spots for a picnic along the way.

Toccoa River Swinging Bridge Trail

• Difficulty: ★★☆☆☆ (Moderate)

• Length: 3 miles round trip

• Duration: ~1.5 hours

• Family-friendly: Yes, for ages 8+

• Highlights: Iconic 270-foot suspension bridge, river views, wildlife spotting.

• Note: Mountain bikes are allowed on parts of this trail.

One of the most popular trails in the area, this hike offers an easy-to-moderate challenge with a big reward—crossing the longest swinging bridge east of the Mississippi! The hike is relatively level, making it a great option for families with older kids. Along the way, you’ll enjoy views of the Toccoa River, and you might spot wildlife like deer or even a river otter.

Amicalola Falls East Ridge Trail

• Difficulty: ★★★☆☆ (Moderate/Difficult)

• Length: 2 miles round trip

• Duration: ~1-2 hours

• Family-friendly: Yes, for ages 10+ (may be challenging for younger kids)

• Highlights: Georgia’s tallest waterfall, observation platforms, breathtaking mountain views.

• Note: No mountain bikes on this trail.

This trail is a bit more strenuous, with a steep incline up to the top of Amicalola Falls, the tallest waterfall in Georgia. You’ll be rewarded with stunning views from multiple platforms, and the hike down offers different scenic angles of the falls. Be prepared for some tough sections, especially if you're hiking with kids. The uphill trek is well worth it for the panoramic views at the summit.

Benton MacKaye Trail – Springer Mountain to Three Forks

• Difficulty: ★★★★★ (Difficult)

• Length: 8.5 miles round trip

• Duration: ~4-5 hours

• Family-friendly: Not recommended for young children (suitable for teens and older)

• Highlights: Appalachian Trail starting point, mountain vistas, rich history, and wildlife.

• Note: No mountain bikes.

This hike is perfect for experienced hikers looking for a full-day adventure. It starts at the southern terminus of the Appalachian Trail on Springer Mountain, a bucket-list destination for many. You’ll traverse through thick forests and pass by streams as you make your way to the scenic Three Forks area. This trail is more remote, and the elevation changes can be intense, so it’s best suited for seasoned hikers or families with teenagers.

Pro Tips for Hiking in Blue Ridge

• Plan Ahead: Make sure you check trail conditions before heading out, as weather can impact difficulty levels.

• Pack Snacks and Water: Even on shorter hikes, it's a good idea to bring a light snack and plenty of water.

• Watch for Bikes: Some of these trails are shared with mountain bikers, so stay aware, especially if hiking with children.

Blue Ridge offers some of the most beautiful and diverse hiking in North Georgia. Whether you're looking for an easy walk to a waterfall or a challenging trek through the mountains, there's a trail for everyone. Which one will you hike next?

Personal Tip: Hiking with Young Kids

While some of these trails may not be recommended for young children, we've successfully taken our own kids along, even when they were very young, by using a front carrier or hiking backpack. If you keep a close eye on your little ones and always have them walk on the inside edge of the trail, trails 1-3 can be manageable even for those under 4 years old. Just remember to stay vigilant, and only do what feels comfortable for you and your family.

We even had friends breastfeeding at the trailhead of Fall Branch Falls (Trail 2), so it’s all about what you're comfortable with when it comes to risk. You do you and what feels right!

Another fun tip: I highly recommend bringing a “trail bracelet” for your kids. We use clear packing tape wrapped around their wrists so they can collect flowers, leaves, and other little treasures they find along the way. It’s a fun, interactive way to keep them engaged! Just be sure to keep an eye on those mushrooms growing along the trails—most of them aren’t edible, so be cautious about what your kids might try to pop into their mouths.

Let Me Help You Plan Your Next Trip to Blue Ridge!

If you’re ready to explore these beautiful trails and make some amazing memories, let me help you plan your next adventure in Blue Ridge. Whether you need tips on accommodations, local attractions, or hiking recommendations tailored to your family’s needs, I’m here to assist. Reach out to me for personalized travel advice and make your Blue Ridge experience unforgettable!