January 25, 2005
Rabun Bald - Bartram Trail
Trail information
Today's hike was on the Bartram Trail starting at Hale Ridge Road at the Bartram Trail crossing and hiking up to Rabun Bald (Georgia's 2nd highest mountain peak - 4696 ft). As usual, the Bartram Trail was very well maintained and the hike was a very nice with only a moderate degree of difficulty. There is quite a bit of elevation change especially the last mile up to the top. The visibility was great from the tower with a fantastic 360 degree panoramic view of the NC and GA mountains. Total round trip distance - 8.4 mi according to sign (7.9 according to GPS)
Directions
Take Hwy. 441 N from Clayton, GA through Dillard, GA and turn right onto GA 246 / NC 106 toward Highlands, NC. Drive about 7 miles and turn right at the Scaly Mtn. Ski Slope. Go a couple of miles and turn left onto Hale Ridge road. Drive a mile or so and you will see the trail crossing sign on your right. Another great day for a hike! Fair and cool. FAUNA: Eastern Mole (Deceased; in trail. Dropped by startled Barred Owl??)
Conditions
Temperatures ranging from 30 F to the low 50's F.
Hikers (8)
- Phil Brownrigg
- Jack Jacobi
- Bob Presley
- Donna Presley
- Tony Presley
- Dan Ross
- Doug Russell
- Bob Thompson
Birds identified
Barred Owl, Ruffed Grouse, Raven, American Crow, Pileated Woodpecker, Blue Jay, Towhee, White-breasted Nuthatch, Black-capped Chickadee, Dark-eyed Junco
Photos (12)
Shortly into the hike we pass this icy waterfalls. As we walk along the trail, we see our destination . We surprised a Barred Owl and he flew up and perched in this tree. Here, we are working our way up the mountain. Several places along the trail were covered with ice! You will not find a better place for lunch! (on the observation tower at Rabun Bald) elevation 4696 ft plus the hight of the tower 20 ft or so). View one from the tower. View two! view three! View four! The old rock observation tower! The OFHC gang for today's hike! (l-r) Jack Jacobi, Phil Brownrigg, Dan Ross, Donna Presley, Bob Thompson, Bob Presley,Doug Russell, and Tony Presley.