Rabun Bald Is One Of The Best Winter Hikes In Georgia

Hiking is a great activity – it’s good for your mental state, it lets you explore new places, it can be done alone or with friends (or even your dog!), and it’s great exercise to keep you in shape. Many novice hikers focus their trail exploration during the warmer months when people tend to be outside more, but there’s no reason to do that! Winter hiking in Georgia is fantastic, whether you’re in the northern part of the state where we actually get some snow, or down further south where winter mostly means a brief respite from the sweltering heat. One of our favorite winter trails in Georgia is the Rabun Bald Trail via Beegum Gap up in the North Georgia mountains. This is a moderately difficult climb with a sizable altitude gain, but it’s absolutely stunning at any time of year – and we think it’s even better in the winter!

At 4,696 feet above sea level, Rabun Bald is the second-highest point in Georgia. As you can imagine, that kind of towering height provides some pretty incredible views.

Marie Juchelka/Alltrails

There are a number of great trails in this area, which is part of the sprawling Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest. One of the best ways to explore the area is to take the three-mile Rabun Bald loop via Beegum Gap.

doug robertson/Alltrails

This trail features quite the elevation gain (over 1,000 feet!), so it’s considered moderately difficult. However, the incline is pretty steady throughout the hike, so it doesn’t have a lot of particularly steep areas.

Sarah Fuller/Alltrails

The hike is particularly stunning in the winter. Crisp white snow on the ground, frozen mini-waterfalls, frosty rocky outcroppings: does anything compare?

Shawn Grage/Alltrails

You’ll be able to get panoramic views from the lookout tower, and on a clear day, you can see up to 100 miles away.

Nate Cass/Alltrails

When hiking in the winter, it’s especially important to stay hydrated and wear proper (waterproof) footwear. You’ll also want to be extra cautious of your footing, as ice is obviously slippery!

Amy Spainhower/Alltrails

Few things are more beautiful than Georgia in winter, and this is one of the best places to explore!

Stephanie Cheeks/Alltrails

Are you a fan of winter hiking in Georgia, or do you stick to warmer weather trails? Share your thoughts in the comments!