Preacher’s Rock Hike: A Scenic and Easy Appalachian Trail Adventure in North Georgia

The Appalachian Trail starts in Georgia, and there are several portions of the hike that more casual hikers can do to experience some of the wonder of the AT. Preacher’s Rock trail offers some of the most stunning views and requires less effort to get there. I love this hike because it isn’t as packed as Amicalola Falls, yet it still yields gorgeous views of the surrounding mountains.

Getting There: Map to Woody Gap Trailhead

To start your hike, make sure you map to the correct location. On Google Maps, if you input Preacher’s Rock, you will end up in someone’s yard. Instead, put Woody Gap Trailhead into your maps and head there. It can be easy to miss the start of the trail as there are two small areas on either side of the road to pull over. The one with a small parking lot and bathroom is the one you want to be at to start your hike.

If you need a little motivation before hiking, you can check out the mountain views at Woody Gap before doing your hike up Preacher’s Rock. The trail is well-marked and worn in once you begin. There are signs for other nearby hikes and offshoots you could pursue. The hike is moderate, and its highlight is the large rock outcropping known as Preacher’s Rock, where you can relax and take a break before resuming your trip back. Round-trip, this hike is 2 miles, and it is also dog-friendly so long as your pet is on a leash.

Hike Details

• Trail Type: Out-and-back

• Distance: 2 miles round trip

• Difficulty: Moderate

• Dog-Friendly: Yes (on a leash)

• Trail Surface: Well-marked dirt trail with occasional roots and rocks

Best Time to Visit

This hike is stunning in all seasons. Fall, of course, lends itself to beautiful fall colors. If you time it right during Spring and Summer, you will have the chance to glimpse a variety of wild flowers like trillium, flame azalea, and Mountain-laurel.

 

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Nearby Hikes & Local Tips

The views at the top of this hike showcase stunning views of the surrounding Blue Ridge Mountains. While Preacher’s Rock itself is located atop Cedar Mountain. Nearby, you can also catch views of Dockery Lake.

Some longer adventures to check out in the area include Neels Gap and Jarrard Gap. And if you’re not in the mood for another hike, then I recommend heading to the Pizza Hut Classic in Dahlonega on your way home. This stop feels like stepping back in time to the 80s and 90s. Aside from the nostalgia, a personal pan pizza can be a perfect way to refuel after a long hike.

Happy Adventuring!