We are excited to announce that
Dahlonega was recently recognized by the
Appalachian Trail Conservancy as an AT Trail Community. Located just 70 miles north of Atlanta, Dahlonega’s Springer Mountain is the gateway to the Appalachian Mountains.
On March 18-20, Dahlonega hosted its first
Dahlonega Trail Fest in downtown Dahlonega to kick off the hiking season and celebrate this new designation.
The Trail Fest included camping for hikers, speakers, films, music, and workshops on safety, camping techniques, equipment and more. The festival also included a 5k trail run, canoeing/kayaking, guided hikes, and activities for kids. This was such a huge success for Dahlonega that we are already planning next year’s event. Don’t forget to save the date for March 16-18, 2012.
The Appalachian Trail can be accessed from paved state highways at Neels Gap on U. S. Highway 19 and Woodys Gap on Ga. Highway 60. Gravel surfaced National Forest roads provide access to the trail at Gooch Gap, Cooper Gap, Hightower Gap, Three Forks area and at Springer Mountain. Hikers can park their cars at the Springer Mountain parking lot.
Hikers who don’t want to leave their cars can take advantage of these shuttle services that leave from the Atlanta airport and will drop visitors off in Dahlonega along the trails.
