4.8
(7076)
7,460
hikers
01:46
6.43km
100m
Hiking
The Garland Mountain: East Side Loop offers a pleasant escape into the North Georgia mountains, winding through 4.0 miles (6.4 km) of rolling terrain. You'll experience a mix of natural beauty, with some sections featuring uneven ground, small hills, and occasional roots, giving it a varied feel. Despite these minor challenges, the trail remains an easy hike, perfect for those who appreciate a peaceful journey through the 940-acre landscape without overly strenuous climbs.
Planning your visit is straightforward, as the trails are well-marked with blazes and maps, ensuring you can navigate with ease. Parking is typically available at the trailhead, and there are no permits or fees mentioned for accessing the Garland Mountain Horse and Hike Trails. To make the most of your 1 hour and 45 minute outing, consider starting early in the day or visiting during the shoulder seasons for comfortable temperatures and fewer crowds.
This trail is part of an extensive network of multi-use paths, catering to both hikers and horseback riders, which adds a unique dynamic to your experience. The ongoing maintenance and development of these routes are largely supported by the dedicated efforts of the Friends of Garland Mountain organization. This community involvement ensures the trails remain accessible and enjoyable for everyone, highlighting the local commitment to preserving this natural gem in Cherokee County, GA.
Last updated: June 9, 2026
Waypoints
Start point
Parking
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6.43 km
End point
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
4.23 km
2.12 km
< 100 m
Surfaces
4.23 km
2.20 km
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Elevation
Highest point (420 m)
Lowest point (350 m)
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Weather
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Thursday 30 July
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18°C
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Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 13.0 km/h
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This route was planned by komoot.
Based on komoot's data, this loop typically takes around 1 hour and 45 minutes to complete. This duration can vary depending on your pace and how often you stop to enjoy the peaceful, wooded environment.
Yes, this loop is generally considered easy to moderate. It features rolling terrain without long, steep climbs, making it a good option for beginners looking for a pleasant hike in a natural setting. The overall difficulty is rated as 'easy' by komoot.
The terrain on this loop is characterized by winding and rolling paths through a peaceful, wooded environment. You may encounter sections of red clay and sandy areas, and some parts feature stream crossings. It's a pleasant walk without significant elevation challenges.
Yes, the Garland Mountain Horse & Hiking Trails are multi-use, shared by both hikers and horseback riders. It is crucial for hikers to yield to riders. Always be aware of your surroundings and give horses plenty of space.
Yes, the trails at Garland Mountain are generally dog-friendly. However, always ensure your dog is on a leash and that you clean up after them. Remember that you'll be sharing the trails with horses, so keeping your dog under control is essential for everyone's safety.
The Garland Mountain: East Side Loop can be enjoyed year-round. Spring brings lush greenery, while fall offers beautiful foliage. Summer is pleasant in the wooded sections, and winter hiking is possible, though conditions may vary. Always check local weather before heading out.
Parking is available at the Garland Mountain Horse & Hiking Trails park. While there isn't a single designated 'East Side Loop' trailhead, you can access the trails that form this loop from the main parking areas within the park. Look for clear signage and maps upon arrival.
No, there are typically no entrance fees or permits required to access the Garland Mountain Horse & Hiking Trails. It's a publicly accessible park for outdoor recreation.
While this specific loop is more known for its peaceful, wooded environment rather than panoramic vistas, the entire Garland Mountain area is set in the beautiful Appalachian foothills. You'll enjoy the natural forest scenery, and the trails are well-blazed for easy navigation.
This route is a combination of several trails within the Garland Mountain network. It primarily utilizes sections of the Palomino trail (50% of the route), Greenway East (33% and 30% of the route), Pinto (30% of the route), and Buckskin (29% of the route) to form the loop.
Yes, the Garland Mountain Horse & Hiking Trails park offers amenities for visitors. You'll find picnic areas, which are great for a break or a meal. The park also features 'horse playgrounds' with obstacles, reflecting its multi-use nature.
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