Champion Creek Trail, Burnt Mountain Preserve, Jasper, GA (2.2 mile loop, 721’ elevation). The creek is big and bubbly and lovely to hang out on. It’s very quiet and there was only 1 other person on it even on a Saturday afternoon. But it’s pretty much straight down hill to the point of making the decent awkward. My toes did feel better after soaking in the cold water. The up is slightly more fun but strenuous. I think I’d have enjoyed it slightly more if I’d remembered my hiking poles. I recommend this trail if you’re training for the Barkley Marathon.

5

difficulty: 9

Brasstown Bald, Blairsville, GA ($5/person). This is Georgia’s highest point at 4,784’ above sea level. The walk to the observation tower is a steep 1/2 mile up but it’s definitely worth it. During their season they do have a tram for those who don’t want walk up. The observation deck offers incredible views of the surrounding mountains. We ate our dinner at a western facing overlook in the parking area. We’re already planning to come back and watch a sunset here.

9

difficulty: 4

Quality Inn and Suites Mt Chalet, Clayton, GA. First, I should say that we’ve stayed here before and our other room wasn’t like this one. And the lady that runs it is super nice, she even made us waffles last time we were here. But this room is hilarious: the shower is nose high, the towel hook is set for a professional basketball center and the heating/AC unit has no 69F setting.

Price: $115/night