Barnes Creek Wildflowers

Hike the moderate 7.2-mile Bear Creek and Pinhoti Loop through Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest, featuring creeks and wildflowers.

If you're ready for a serious challenge, the Mulberry Gap: Bear Creek, P1 and P2 Loop delivers a difficult 17.5-mile (28.1 km) hike with 2671 feet (814 metres) of elevation gain, typically requiring about 8 hours and 17 minutes. This route takes you through a diverse landscape, from gravel roads to technical singletrack, past rushing creeks and the impressive Barnes Creek Falls. You'll experience sustained, thigh-burning climbs and rewarding downhill sections, all set within the beautiful Chattahoochee National Forest. The journey to the enormous Gennett Poplar is a particular highlight, offering a moment of awe amidst the effort.

This challenging loop is easily accessed from Mulberry Gap, making it a convenient option for those staying in the area. Given its length and difficulty, plan for an early start to ensure ample daylight, and always carry sufficient water and supplies. While specific permit or parking warnings aren't noted, preparing for a full day in the backcountry is essential for a safe and enjoyable experience on these popular routes.

Part of the larger Pinhoti Trail system, this loop combines sections like Pinhoti 1 (P1) and Pinhoti 2 (P2), known for their well-constructed paths and perfect grades. The trail offers breathtaking viewpoints of Fort Mountain and Chatsworth, Georgia, making the significant elevation changes well worth the effort. It's an excellent choice for experienced hikers looking for a substantial and varied adventure in northern Georgia.

The Pinhoti and Bear Creek Loop offers a diverse and engaging hiking experience through the Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest. You'll traverse varied terrain, from singletrack paths to old logging roads, winding through pine tree-laden ridgelines and rhododendron-covered mountains. Keep an eye out for the impressive Gennett Poplar, a natural monument and the second-largest deciduous tree in Georgia, as well as several beautiful waterfalls like Barnes Creek Falls.

This difficult 11.1-mile (17.9 km) route involves 1669 feet (509 metres) of elevation gain and typically takes around 5 hours and 16 minutes to complete. Be prepared for numerous stream crossings, which can lead to wet feet, especially after rainfall. The trail is shared with mountain bikers and trail runners, so stay aware of your surroundings. Starting early in the day is recommended to allow ample time for this challenging loop.

Known as one of the oldest mountain biking networks in the Southeast, the Pinhoti and Bear Creek Loop provides a remote backcountry feel. It's a segment of the much larger Pinhoti Trail, offering a taste of its extensive 350-mile stretch. This trail is ideal for experienced hikers seeking a robust workout combined with stunning natural features and varied Pinhoti and Bear Creek Loop terrain.