Yonah Mountain Hiking Trail
Yonah Mountain Hiking Trail
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AFlife
20 contributions
Apr 2021
So this is a strenuous hike but very manageable if you take your time on the uphill part. The trail itself is beautiful and well marked. We arrived early and were able to park in the parking lot. The parking lot is on the smallish side however there is parking along the road leading to the trail. The road going to the trailhead is unpaved and has some large ruts,etc. The views are very pretty from the top and well worth a visit. I would recommend shoes with good grip due to the few sections that require climbing over rock,etc. We took our small dog ( 15lbs) with us and he only needed carried over a few places. On the way down we did pass a lot of people coming up the trail and there were a few sections that required you to wait until others passed. I would definitely arrive early.
Written April 13, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Grover R
Pensacola, FL22,409 contributions
Aug 2023 • Solo
Per AllTrails, this hike is the #1 hike in the State of Georgia. At 4.1 miles round trip and 1,453 vertical feet is it a great hike with just enough elevation in just enough distance. While the nearly the entire hike is through a thick Georgia deciduous forest, one side of the top has a sheer granite wall that provides incredible views to the west over the valley below. For all these reasons, this is an incredible hike. I will say there are a number of camps in the area so the trail can be quite busy. However, it can equally clear out as it did before I returned, hiking the entire way down by myself and having an incredible experience with a number of deer on the return.
If you are in the north Georgia mountains, this is a great hike that I highly recommend. The distance and elevation are relatively low and the rewarding view for the effort is incredible. There is a reason this is the best hike in Georgia.
If you are in the north Georgia mountains, this is a great hike that I highly recommend. The distance and elevation are relatively low and the rewarding view for the effort is incredible. There is a reason this is the best hike in Georgia.
Written December 31, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Louis H
Atlanta, GA635 contributions
Jul 2022
We used to drive up to the top of Yonah back in college in the 90's when the Army was not doing training exercises. The road to the top was very narrow somewhat dangerous. Wisely the state of Georgia closed off this road and made a hiking trailhead. The hike up says 2.2 miles but we ended up hiking about 2.6 up. I guess because we hiked around the summit and cliffside quite a bit. It's 1600 feet of elevation gain in 2.2 miles which is pretty tough. Still I think Blood Mountain is 2000+ in 1.5 miles so not quite as much elevation change. The trail doesn't switch back to much and has quite a bit of erosion making a few difficult footing sections. Still I would not call in an extremely hard hike if you take it slow. There is a really nice lookout just over halfway. The last .75 miles is probably the toughest but you are rewarded with outstanding views of Blood Mt, Brasstown Bald and most of North Central GA. There are some really dangerous ledges so be careful. The trail is heavily traveled so you don't have to worry about being isolated on weekends. There are basic bathroom facilities at the trailhead. Definitely going to get back up here again soon and hike it again.
Written July 3, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Emmy S
Orlando, FL4 contributions
Jul 2021
Okay, let me start by saying that Mt. Yonah and I had quite the interesting experience together. As a person who does not hike regularly, this hike was pretty strenuous. The 2,000 ft increase in just two miles definitely took the wind out of me, but the hike was incredible. The views were some of the best I had ever seen and I would do this hike again. With lookouts along the trail up the mountain, my friend and I were able to take sufficient breaks to make our climb easier. While this hike was a feat for us, we did see hikers climb this mountain with ease and were lapped by individuals who brought little water and snacks. It seems to be a hot spot for local, seasoned hikers.
However, we did have one problem on this hike that occurred on the way down. We missed the small trailhead after the army camp and ended up walking a mile and half down the mountain in the wrong direction. This was awful for us because we could barely make it up in the first place and after trying (and failing) to make our way back to the trailhead, we ended up hitchhiking back to the trailhead with a local vacation rental worker. So, my only advice to travelers hiking this mountain would be to pay special attention to the trail markers on your sojourn back from the mountain’s peak.
Scary hitchhiking aside, the view from the top of the mountain was worth the hours we spent hiking under the hot sun. The views of the valley below were amazing and we loved being able to view miles and miles of land.
In summation, do this hike but be diligent, pay attention to directions, and bring plenty of snacks and water to keep you fueled throughout your hike.
However, we did have one problem on this hike that occurred on the way down. We missed the small trailhead after the army camp and ended up walking a mile and half down the mountain in the wrong direction. This was awful for us because we could barely make it up in the first place and after trying (and failing) to make our way back to the trailhead, we ended up hitchhiking back to the trailhead with a local vacation rental worker. So, my only advice to travelers hiking this mountain would be to pay special attention to the trail markers on your sojourn back from the mountain’s peak.
Scary hitchhiking aside, the view from the top of the mountain was worth the hours we spent hiking under the hot sun. The views of the valley below were amazing and we loved being able to view miles and miles of land.
In summation, do this hike but be diligent, pay attention to directions, and bring plenty of snacks and water to keep you fueled throughout your hike.
Written March 23, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
CANDICE B
Kennesaw, GA56 contributions
Sep 2023 • Solo
As a former hiker gone soft, this was a difficult hike and much willpower was needed to finish. The 1450’ elevation gain is no joke. The rock and boulder path was tough. When I reached the Army training camp, I knew I had been too ambitious but couldn’t turn back by then. If the military trains on a mountain, one knows it will be full of suck. The view at the summit was gorgeous. A man and a child were fairly close and the child, while polite, talked loudly the entire time. So much for zen. The hike down went more quickly but was brutal. The hike difficulty was mostly due to my fitness level or lack thereof. It was worth it.
Written September 26, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Autumn B
Oconee, GA3 contributions
Mar 2020 • Family
It was a very strenuous hike, very steep. But my whole fam still loved it! Walk, yes! But to run is a huge no, the mountain was super steep and I wouldn’t want to roll an ankle. Still a fun trip though!!!!
Written March 9, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Rebecca L
Atlanta, GA1,636 contributions
Jul 2020 • Family
This is about a 4.5 mile hike to the top of Yonah Mountain. The path is clear but has roots and some rocks. At the halfway point up the mountain, there is a grassy clearing for your first good view. After that, the path gets much steeper. At the top, there are many outcrops you can sit and enjoy views. It was a little hard finding the trailhead, but the parking lot is on a short gravel road off Chambers road. No fee to park and pit toilets. I would say this hike is moderate to strenuous, but very doable. Take lots of water.
Written July 5, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Tampatripper6
Northdale, FL50 contributions
Jul 2020
Tough hike, but we didn’t bring water and were fine. Only just over 2 miles to the top but very steep! 1,400 ft in elevation gain. My kids (8 & 11) loved the challenge! Might bring water next time, but it was also nice not to carry anything. Cool Native American history (and army ranger training) to this mountain of you google it.
Written July 7, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Josh E
11 contributions
Jul 2023 • Couples
Was definitely a difficult hike compared to the average hikes I’ve done and also what I thought the hike was gonna be. BUT the best view point I’ve ever been too. Even better then baldtown brass. Yonah has the hiking challenge with a reward once you get to the top
Written July 23, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Georgiadaybreak82
USA26 contributions
Nov 2011
I actually went 2 times in the same week. The first time I went with a group of adults and had a blast. Several adults actually struggled with the 2.5 mile hike up the mountain. Some sections of the trail are very steep and narrow. You do have to climb a few boulders that block the trail, so be sure you have shoes with traction. It took us 1.5 hours to hike it as a group at a consistent pace and a few brief rest stops. Take at least 30 oz of water per person. It should last the entire hike up and down. Possibly more water needed for summer hikes.
I enjoyed it so much I returned the very next day with family in tow including two toddlers. We all hiked it and took a few more frequent breaks. Take a quality lite lunch or snack to eat at the top, as the view is worth it and spectactcular!! Be watchful of small children, as the cliff is right there with no guard rails and drop off is sheer and the wind can make you unstable, so don't be a risk-taker with your photos near the ledge!
This moutain is also a training site for the Army rangers, and there is a number to call to check their training schedule. On our second trip, an Army helicopter training flight actually flew in low to the mountain top while we wer on top, which was pretty cool. The kids loved it. It was loud and a bit eerie, but overall pretty cool. The chopper kept circling the mt. top and coming in close with maneuvering patterns....very entertaining.
The hike down is shorter time wise, but be wary of how steep the trail can be going down hill. Dress in layers so you can peel down while hiking (and your body heats up) but can put your jacket back on once at the top where it is breezy and cool (as you bask in the magnificent view and open air).
A great day trip! Head to Helen for lunch and make this a wonderful mini-vaction...comletely affordable as the trail hike is free. Keep in mind very primitive bathroom facility....no light and don't count on toilet paper. There is also a facility near the top, but very dark inside.
Yonah Mountain is also called Yonah Bald and is located in the Chattoochee National Forest. There is no website dedicated to just this hiking trail, but check online for pictures of the mountain and the area.
I enjoyed it so much I returned the very next day with family in tow including two toddlers. We all hiked it and took a few more frequent breaks. Take a quality lite lunch or snack to eat at the top, as the view is worth it and spectactcular!! Be watchful of small children, as the cliff is right there with no guard rails and drop off is sheer and the wind can make you unstable, so don't be a risk-taker with your photos near the ledge!
This moutain is also a training site for the Army rangers, and there is a number to call to check their training schedule. On our second trip, an Army helicopter training flight actually flew in low to the mountain top while we wer on top, which was pretty cool. The kids loved it. It was loud and a bit eerie, but overall pretty cool. The chopper kept circling the mt. top and coming in close with maneuvering patterns....very entertaining.
The hike down is shorter time wise, but be wary of how steep the trail can be going down hill. Dress in layers so you can peel down while hiking (and your body heats up) but can put your jacket back on once at the top where it is breezy and cool (as you bask in the magnificent view and open air).
A great day trip! Head to Helen for lunch and make this a wonderful mini-vaction...comletely affordable as the trail hike is free. Keep in mind very primitive bathroom facility....no light and don't count on toilet paper. There is also a facility near the top, but very dark inside.
Yonah Mountain is also called Yonah Bald and is located in the Chattoochee National Forest. There is no website dedicated to just this hiking trail, but check online for pictures of the mountain and the area.
Written November 27, 2011
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Laura
Estero, Florida
Has anyone done this hike with a 3 year old? It looks beautiful but I don't know how far we would make it.
Written October 20, 2020
Definitely would not recommend it. When my daughter was that age, I wouldn’t take her on a trail longer than a mile or two and mostly level. Even then I’d end up carrying her by the end. This trail is steep and uneven. Difficult for the child and difficult for you if you have to carry him or her.
Written October 21, 2020
How do you get over there from the main road? Last time I was up that way I can see you on a mountain but I couldn't figure out how to get there
Written March 15, 2020
There is a paved loop that runs off the main road that will get you there. I forgot the name but GPS took us right there.
Written March 15, 2020
So I can park my car in the gravel parking lot overnight and go camping?
Written September 18, 2019
I would think so since this is National Forest land. I would double-check with the nearest office, which is probably the one that is on 441 N past Talullah Gorge. Google National Forest Service regional offices.
Written July 5, 2020
Are there any ticks on the trail in the summer time that can get on me or my dog?
Written May 2, 2019
Of course not, there are people stationed periodically along the 4.4 mile trail, their only job is to find the ticks and remove them for the safety of all guests.
Written June 4, 2019
Is it necessary to have poles or walking stick for hiking to Yonai mtn?
Written April 22, 2019
No, it’s not necessary! If you are more comfortable with using trekking poles/hiking sticks, you can bring them, but the trail is very doable without them.
Written April 23, 2019
goodwink9
Atlanta, Georgia
Is there a specified hours of operation for the trail/parking lot?
Written March 11, 2017
No there's not you can go anytime of the day or night
Written March 12, 2017
Of course dogs can go! I brought my dogs and they ran the trails like they were nothing.
Written March 9, 2020
Several people have slipped and fallen off of the rocky peak and ledges. So as long as you are careful where you step, you'll be just fine. There's a few important things you need to keep in mind. 1- Wear good study hiking boots or trail shoes, NO FLIP FLOPS!! 2- Make sure that you leave yourself plenty of time to get up and down the mountain, it WILL take you at least 4 hours from base camp to the peak. 3- Take plenty of water with you, there are no places to get water on the trail. 4- Take your time when climbing over the boulder fields and up the steeper sections. 5- Watch where you place your feet, as there are exposed roots and loose rocks everywhere on the trail. 6- Let someone know that you are going to be hiking the trail and what time you plan to be back home. Cell service is spotty and if you get caught on the mountain once the sun goes down, you had best have a flashlight, either that or plan on spending the night on Yonah.
Written May 23, 2016
Carson Tufts
Provo, Utah
Is it legal to camp out at the top of the mountain? I know that there is a clearing at the top, but with the Army there are we allowed to stay the night?
Written November 8, 2015
I believe you can camp at the top and at the first landing as long as the Army rangers are not practicing the mountaineering.
Caa ahead to make sure.
Written November 9, 2015
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