Coopers Gap

Trail Overview

If you're looking for peaceful mountain trails that lead to dispersed campsites in the North Georgia mountains, this is the spot for you. This beginner-friendly 11-mile route winds through gravel and hard-packed clay paths, taking you through the beautiful Chattahoochee National Forest. If you're coming from Atlanta, it's a good idea to stop in Dawsonville first. It's the last bigger town before you hit the more remote areas of the North Georgia mountains, making it the perfect place to grab a bite and fuel up for your adventure. As you journey along this trail, you'll pass an Army Ranger school nestled beside the path and sections that run close to a charming stream, adding a refreshing touch to the route. Most parts of the trail are shaded by thick tree canopies, offering a cool break from the hot Georgia sun in the summer. The dispersed campsites along the route come in various sizes, perfect for different group sizes and preferences. Hiking enthusiasts will love the trail's proximity to the Appalachian Trail, which provides even more opportunities for exploration. You can easily hop onto the Appalachian Trail from here and experience one of the most famous hiking routes in the U.S. You can count on reliable cell service throughout most of the trail. While you might encounter other vehicles or backpackers, the trail is generally wide enough for everyone. If you're on two wheels, just be careful of the clay sections when they're wet, as they can get pretty slippery. Also, the Whissenhunt ORV (Off-Road Vehicle) Area is just southeast of the trail, offering more for off-road enthusiasts who want to explore beyond the main route. Whether you're looking to explore the backroads or just find a peaceful campsite for the night, this trail is accessible for any type of vehicle and experience level.

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Difficulty

The trail primarily consists of hard-packed clay, silt, and gravel throughout its entire length. It offers ample pull-off points that can be utilized for allowing passage to others or for making turnarounds as necessary.

Technical Rating