Appalachian Trail: Blue Ridge Gap <--> North Carolina/Georgia Line(edit)

Overview

This is an easy section of the Appalachian Trail that runs nearly north/south, starting at Blue Ridge Gap north to the Georgia/North Carolina line. It is located completely in the Southern Nantahala Wilderness and that, in conjunction with its difficult access, makes it feel very remote. As far as AT hikes go, this is an easy one that doesn’t have too much climbing, the steepest of which is near the beginning at Blue Ridge Gap. Once you get up the first few climbs, it’s a very nice stroll all the way to North Carolina.

This trail goes by Wheeler Knob (3804ft), Rocky Knob (3750ft), and Rich Knob (3927ft) and then crosses the Georgia North Carolina line just south of Bly Gap.

Difficulty
Easy
Length 2.9 miles (one way)
Ascent: 1041ft
Descent: 636ft

Getting Started

This trailhead is only accessible by a road that is marked as "4WD" on USGS maps. In April 2019, confirmed that while the road is paved to within about 0.9 miles of the AT, closer access via Carlie’s Creek Road requires a four wheel drive vehicle with significant ground clearance due to ruts and large, half buried rocks in the road. If you don’t have a capable 4wd vehicle, park on the side of the gravel road shortly after the pavement ends and hoof it up to the trail. This will add about 0.75 miles to your one-way hike.

Taking Children

While this hike is certainly not too difficult or dangerous for most children 8 and up, it also doesn’t have much of a “destination “ appeal that might make them feel the effort was worth it.