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North Georgia Mountain
Outfitters, Ellijay
Brasstown Bald Trail
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It would probably be better to call this footpath up and down instead of in and out. Although difficult, this is an excellent hike for most people. Frequent stopping places along the path make it achievable for even the most out-of-shape hikers. As you climb from the parking lot to the summit the change in flora is the equivalent of walking a thousand miles further north. At the base of Brasstown Rosebay Rhododendron are dominant, but are replaced by purple rhododendron as the trail climbs. Trees at the base are a mix of large oak and a variety hardwoods. As the path climbs the trees are smaller. The top of the shrub bald is covered by an unusual dwarf forest. Twisted and gnarled branches of both red and white oak create an unusual sight. Because Wolfpen Ridge is predominantly hardwood, Brasstown Bald (which is the highest point on the ridge) is a wonder to behold in the fall. Normally the best colors occur during the third week in October. The top of the mountain is 500 feet higher than the base. Be sure to carry a jacket for warmth at the top except during the summer. From the Visitors Center is an unencumbered 360° view of the surrounding mountains. Visible from the top are Rabun Bald (Georgia's second highest mountain, slightly north of due east), Blood Mountain (south of due west), and the Cohutta Mountains, (due west of the center).  The trail begins near the bulletin board just north of the gift shop in the parking lot. A modest fee is charged for parking. The trail is steep and is an access path to the Wagon Train Trail. The path follows the Union and Towns County border.
At the top is a visitors center with an extensive museum and various presentations on forestry in north Georgia. Plan on spending a few minutes to see the exhibit as it is well worth the time. Highlights of the visitors centers include two animatrons, one representing a female forest ranger, the other the venerable Arthur Woody, a popular figure in north Georgia. About the name Brasstown was a Cherokee Indian town about 5 miles west of the bald, at the end of the Arkaquah Trail. Join GeorgiaTrails or login to add comments about this trail.
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