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Gahuti Mountain Trail
Trail Running Route
Moderate
7.86 mi
1,868 ft
An 8-mile trail running loop with lush views, challenging terrain, and a waterfall.
Translated as 'Mother Mountain' in the Cherokee language, the Gahuti Trail is one of the best trail runs within the state park. Compared to Trail 301, another popular route, this is a foot-traffic only trail that highlights Fort Mountain's best features.
This is an all-seasons trail run, but the cooler months offer the best views. You'll encounter several lush overlooks that offer different views of the North Georgia Blue Ridge. Along the southern portion of the loop, the Gahuti shadows Trail 301 and you'll be rewarded with sweeping vistas to the south, plus a couple of benches where you could stop to catch your breath.
Circling around the west side of the reservoir, Goldmine Branch Falls is another highlight of this trail run. A wooden bridge below the large multi-tiered cascade also makes this a popular destination for a shorter day hike from the campground.
The main trailhead is located near the end of Old Fort Road in the state park before you reach the trailhead for the fire tower, stone wall, and main overlook. For an extra 1-2 miles to the loop, you could visit any combination of those other popular landmarks.
Sources:
Written by Brendon Voelker
Translated as 'Mother Mountain' in the Cherokee language, the Gahuti Trail is one of the best trail runs within the state park. Compared to Trail 301, another popular route, this is a foot-traffic only trail that highlights Fort Mountain's best features.
This is an all-seasons trail run, but the cooler months offer the best views. You'll encounter several lush overlooks that offer different views of the North Georgia Blue Ridge. Along the southern portion of the loop, the Gahuti shadows Trail 301 and you'll be rewarded with sweeping vistas to the south, plus a couple of benches where you could stop to catch your breath.
Circling around the west side of the reservoir, Goldmine Branch Falls is another highlight of this trail run. A wooden bridge below the large multi-tiered cascade also makes this a popular destination for a shorter day hike from the campground.
The main trailhead is located near the end of Old Fort Road in the state park before you reach the trailhead for the fire tower, stone wall, and main overlook. For an extra 1-2 miles to the loop, you could visit any combination of those other popular landmarks.
Sources:
Written by Brendon Voelker
Created By
Strava Routes
Route and Elevation
Segments
| Name | Distance | Elev. Diff. | Avg. Grade |
|---|---|---|---|
| Gahuti Trail | 7.78 mi | 440 ft | 0.1% |
| Georgia 52 Climb | 0.82 mi | 236 ft | 5.5% |
| Old Fort Rd Climb | 0.34 mi | 141 ft | 7.7% |