Going on a trail run is kind of like going on a mini getaway vacation by yourself. No cars. No buildings. No street lights. In some ways, going on a trail run lets you experience the best aspects of childhood: being completely relaxed and at one with nature.
More and more folks are ditching the man-made pavement and heading for the all-natural alternative that you can only find in places like the Cohutta Wilderness, which can be accessed from many different areas in Blue Ridge.
Trail runners may disagree on which trails are the best, but the great news is there are plenty to choose from in North Georgia, and many are only a short drive from your Blue Ridge cabin rental!
Lace-up your running shoes, grab a few bottles of water, and get those sweet, sweet endorphins flowing. To help you get started, we've listed five of the most popular trail runs in and around Blue Ridge, GA.
Fall Branch Falls
Located in the Cohutta Wildlife area, Fall Branch Falls is shorter in distance than Flat Creek Loop, and is perfect if you're looking for a run under 3 miles long. Best experienced March-October, Fall Branch Falls rewards you with a beautiful waterfall as you reach its conclusion.
Location: Cohutta Wildlife Management Area
Distance: 2.7 mi
Elevation Gain: 695 ft
Route Type: Out & Back
Difficulty: Easy
Long Creek Falls
Accessed via the world-famous Appalachian Trail, Long Creek Falls is moderately trafficked and great for all skill levels. If you love waterfalls, this trail is for you. Perfect if you want some amazing views but don't have much time on your hands. Accessible year-round.
Location: Cohutta Wildlife Management Area
Distance: 1.9 mi
Elevation Gain: 301 ft
Route Type: Out & Back
Difficulty: Easy
Long Branch Loop
Another trail located just a few minutes from Blue Ridge, Long Branch Loop is a fantastic option for runners of all skill levels. While on the trail, keep an eye out for the gorgeous wildflowers and a wide variety of bird species.
Location: Cohutta Wildlife Management Area
Distance: 2.3 mi
Elevation Gain: 288 ft
Route Type: Loop
Difficulty: Easy
Flat Creek Loop
This moderately trafficked loop-style trail run is located in the Cohutta Wildlife area near Blue Ridge, and is often considered to be the easier version of its "big brother" Stanley Gap. Rich with wildlife, Flat Creek Loop is great if you want a relatively vigorous run but don't want to be too sore the next day.
Location: Cohutta Wildlife Management Area
Distance: 6 mi
Elevation Gain: 1023 ft
Route Type: Loop
Difficulty: Moderate
Stanley Gap
Considered a moderate trail run by some and difficult by others, Stanley Gap is best suited for trail runners with some experience, though it's not mandatory. Accessible year-round, Stanley Gap is rife with wildflowers and features many activity options for those interested.
Location: Cohutta Wildlife Management Area
Distance: 9.5 mi
Elevation Gain: 2411 ft
Route Type: Loop
Difficulty: Moderate-Hard