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About twenty years ago my uncle introduced me to hiking. Up until then I had spent most of my life in Florida, South Georgia, or New Orleans — places where a “hill” might be a highway overpass. But when I visited him in the Smoky Mountains, he handed me a pair of sticks (who knew those were necessary?) and packed me a lunch.

Inside was a sandwich, some snacks, and an apple. He told me apples help prevent cramps. I’m not sure how many apples it actually takes to keep the cramps away, but after six hours on the trail I was happy for the calories regardless of their medicinal value.

My uncle is a great hike leader. Over the years I’ve learned that not everyone is.

After moving to the mountains, I became pretty selective about who I spend time with in the woods. Hiking styles vary wildly. Some people need a big mountain vista to feel satisfied. Others hate climbing up. Personally, I hate going down — which means if you pair me with someone who hates going up, we’ll both be miserable the entire hike.

These days I’ve settled into my own hiking style. I simply like being in the woods. I like hearing the creeks and birds, noticing plants along the trail, and if you happen to overnight on a hike, listening to the nighttime sounds of coyotes or the careful steps of a bear moving through the forest. I’m also constantly amazed at how these mountains have recovered after the severe logging and mining that once scarred them.

Because everyone experiences the woods a little differently, I’ve put together a simple guide to help you find the kind of North Georgia hike you’ll actually enjoy. Not every trail is meant for every hiker — and that’s perfectly okay.

The Summit Chaser

You hike for views and accomplishment. The climb is part of the reward, and nothing beats standing on a ridge looking across endless Appalachian mountains.

Best North Georgia hikes for you:

Blood Mountain

Brasstown Bald

Rabun Bald

These hikes offer big elevation, big views, and serious bragging rights

The Waterfall Wanderer

You hike for the sound of water and cool mist in the forest. The journey matters more than the destination, and creeks make every hike better.

Perfect hikes for you:

Sea Creek Falls

Helton Creek Falls

Anna Ruby Falls

These trails are known for lush forests, gentle hikes, and beautiful cascades.

The Quiet Forest Walker

You’re not chasing crowds or big summits. You’re here for stillness, birdsong, and the slow rhythm of the forest.

Trails you’ll love:

Cooper Creek Scenic Area

Vogel State Park

Woody Gap

These areas offer quiet woods, gentle trails, and wildlife sightings.

The Scenic Stroller

You love nature — but you also love comfort and balance. A short walk, a beautiful overlook, and a great meal afterward is your kind of adventure.

Great spots for scenic hikers:

Preacher's Rock

Vogel State Park

Brasstown Bald (drive most of the way!)

These hikes offer maximum scenery with minimal effort.