Appalachian Trail in Georgia

Near the end of Wolfpen Ridge a small spring flows from the mountainside not far from Horsetrough Falls. From the Appalachian Trail a blue "W" on a white background marks the highlight of the path between Hogpen Gap (3450 ft) and Unicoi Gap (2949 ft). Down a two hundred foot scramble into Chattahoochee Gap is the start of the Chattahoochee River, barely more than a leaf-covered spring.

Walking the trail from Hogpen Gap (we have never hiked it the other way), first is ane easy climb to Wolfpen Stamp, closely following the county line between Union and White counties. At one time this was Cherokee land. After Wolfpen Stamp the path ambles down along the ridge until you begin a moderate climb up the wonderfully named Strawberry Top. A brief dip and its back up, this time climbing Poor Mountain. The descent to Wide Gap is noticeable but not difficult. An easy climb to Sheep Rock Top then its down to the shelter at Low Gap. There is water available here.

Low Gap is a good place to break for the night, especially if there is less than 2 to 3 hours of light remaining. The next eight miles is, in our minds, the climb to the top of Blue Mountain. Cold Springs Gap and the aforementioned Chattahoochee Gap remain the only breaks in this uphill climb and although the total gain in elevation is less than 1,000 feet, by the time you've hit Blue Mountain, you know it.

At Chattahoochee Gap the rugged Jack's Knob Trail joins the First Trail. This sidetrail will take you to Georgia's high point, Brasstown Bald
From the top of Blue Mountain is a steep, occasionally treacherous, descent into Unicoi Gap. Be careful here, especially with a full pack.

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