Brasstown Bald rises 4,784 feet above sea level and its peak looms half a mile above the surrounding valleys. The observation deck offers a 360 degree view of the mountains, which sweep a four state area, making it a popular visitor attraction in the North Georgia Mountains.
The Brasstown Bald Summit Trail, which connects the parking area to the Visitor Center and Viewing Platform, is a 1.2-mile out-and-back trail when you park at the parking lot next to the restrooms. It is very steep. There is a shuttle service provided as an alternative to walking the trail, but it is subject to closures and does not run in the winter. Dogs must be leashed and are not permitted in the Visitor Center.
It is located between Blairsville and Young Harris, Georgia. Generally considered a moderately challenging route, it takes an average of 51 min to complete.
Fee: $8 per person (includes shuttle when running). Children 15 and younger get in for free. After hours is $5.
GPS Coordinates: N34.847894, W83.798567
For a longer hike, the distance from the lower parking lot to the tower and back is 7 miles. The road to the higher parking lot may be closed in winter. There are restrooms and a gift shop by the parking lot. There are benches to rest along the trail. Although this trail is paved, the majority of it is over a 12% grade and there are some sharp switchbacks so it would be very steep for manual wheelchair and stroller users.
*Please reach out to be credited for this beautiful photo!
