Back in January, we started our series of posts entitled, “Best North Georgia Mountain Hikes,” with Smith Creek Trail as our first entry. With spring on its way, it’s time to start making your hiking plans with wildflowers and lush green landscapes in mind. Mount Yonah Trail is known for its beautiful meadows of wildflowers and it’s gorgeous mountaintop views. So let’s take a look at what this trail has to offer!
Location
This trail starts out of Cleveland, GA, about 15 minutes from our inn in Sautee Nacoochee. It’s a 4.2 out-and-back trail that is rated as difficult with ~1500 ft elevation gain. It’s is accessible year-round but is probably best suited for dry conditions, as there are several areas that require a little bit of rock scrambling.
Path
The trail is mostly shaded so even on a sunny day, you’ll be grateful for the rich canopy protecting you from some of the sun’s rays. The trail follows a winding path up the mountain through gorgeous meadows of wildflowers. Once at the top, the path circles around for several opportunities to enjoy the beautiful landscapes surrounding the mountain. On a clear day, you may even catch a glimpse of Atlanta from the top of Mount Yonah.
Some folks use this trail to get to some excellent climbing areas, so if you need to take a break during the strenuous ascent, you may get to watch some rock climbers as they find their own unique path up the mountain. In fact, the mountain is often used by the U.S. Army for training, so it’s possible to see those climbers in action too!
As with any hike, make sure you come prepared. Dress in layers, brings plenty of snacks and water, wear proper footwear, and be prepared to change plans if the situation warrants.
Stay with Us!
We are a stone’s throw from this trailhead, making it a perfect addition to your North Georgia Mountain getaway. Once you’ve built up a hearty appetite from this strenuous hike, make sure to stop at nearby Clyde’s Tavern & Grill for authentic southern comfort fare. Or if you’re interested in the beer & wine scene, make a stop at Yonah Mountain Vineyards for a taste of their exquisite wines and accouterments. Tantrum Brewing Company is a farm-to-pint brewery offering food trucks and live music on the weekends. When you’ve finished out a full day of exploring the north Georgia mountains, come back to our luxurious rooms for a night of rest following by a morning of gourmet breakfast and even more mountain views (that you don’t have to hike for!). Book your stay with us today!
