Top 7 Hikes Near Blue Ridge

Benton MacKaye Trail Segment 8a-8d: Bushy Head Gap to Fowler Mountain

Walk from the cabin: this trailhead is 0.6 miles from Southern Serenity, about a 15-minute walk.

The closest trail to the cabin starts at Bushy Head Gap, just 0.6 miles away, so you can walk to the trailhead. This point-to-point segment of the Benton MacKaye Trail (8a to 8d) climbs a ridgeline to Fowler Mountain, passing Bear Den Mountain, which crosses a previously burned area, and then Hudson, McKenny, and Hatley Gaps. The views are wide, especially in winter. The trail gains 1,939 feet overall with a high point of 3,386 feet, and camping is available at several of the gaps. There is no vehicle access at Fowler Mountain, so plan an out-and-back day hike unless you arrange a pickup.

Long Creek Falls via Appalachian Trail

This trail follows the Appalachian and Benton MacKaye Trails through the lush Three Forks valley along Long Creek — a clear trout stream hemmed in by rhododendron and towering hemlocks. The payoff is Long Creek Falls, a two-tiered 50-foot cascade dropping into a calm blue pool. It's one of the most scenic waterfall destinations on the southern AT, with a gentle elevation gain that makes it accessible without feeling too easy. Access is via a 5.3-mile drive on gravel Forest Road 58 to the Three Forks trailhead; high-clearance vehicles recommended.

Fall Branch Falls on the Benton MacKaye Trail

A short half-mile round-trip on the Benton MacKaye Trail leads to a gorgeous double-cascade waterfall framed by gnarly rhododendron branches and moss-covered boulders. The trail climbs steadily beside Fall Branch Creek, catching glimpses of smaller cascades before reaching a wooden observation deck with a face-on view of the 30-foot falls. It's one of the most family-friendly waterfall hikes near Blue Ridge, and the free USFS trailhead off gravel Stanley Creek Road means zero cost to visit.

Toccoa River Swinging Bridge

A flat 0.8-mile walk on the Benton MacKaye Trail delivers you to the longest swinging suspension bridge east of the Mississippi — a 270-foot span that bounces with every step over the wide-flowing Toccoa River. Built in 1977, it's a must for families and kids. Cross the bridge and explore a small waterfall tucked in a hemlock grove on the opposite bank. An optional 2-mile extension climbs a forested ridge for anyone wanting more solitude after the crowds turn back at the bridge.

Rocky Mountain via Stanley Gap Trail

This 5.9-mile out-and-back (or 9.7-mile point-to-point with a shuttle) climbs through the Chattahoochee National Forest off Aska Road, ascending Davenport Mountain and briefly joining the Benton MacKaye Trail before summiting Rocky Mountain. The views from the ridgeline are among the best long-range panoramas in the Blue Ridge area — rolling forest in every direction. Rated moderate to challenging with 2,290 feet of elevation gain. The closest full summit hike to town that actually delivers on the views.

Trahlyta Lake Trail & Falls at Vogel State Park

This easy 1-mile loop circles Lake Trahlyta in Vogel State Park, crossing a 1935 earthen dam built by the Civilian Conservation Corps. A short spur leads to an observation deck below the spillway, and the view from the bridge looks toward Blood and Slaughter Mountains. The path is part natural surface and part paved, takes about an hour, and suits kids and a relaxed pace.

Long Branch Loop (Aska Trails)

Long Branch Loop starts at the Shady Falls trailhead in the Aska Trail System, about 6 miles south of Blue Ridge on Aska Road. The loop runs roughly 2.1 miles through national forest on lime-green-blazed trails and connects to the Benton MacKaye Trail. The Forest Service lists the trails as free and open year-round, which makes this an easy add-on for a free afternoon.