Sitting 4,784 feet above sea level, Brasstown Bald is the highest point in the state of Georgia. Naturally, because of its height, it offers some of the most incredible views in the state! You can even see 4 states from the top! Spot Georgia, Tennessee, North Carolina, and South Carolina from the peak. You may even see the Atlanta skyline on a clear day!
Brasstown Bald is located in the beautiful and sprawling Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest, tucked among the Appalachian Mountains. It’s close to more great trails and recreation areas, along with the charming mountain towns of Blairsville, Helen, and Hiawassee. You can make a day of hiking and enjoying the views at Brasstown Bald, visiting the science and history center, and exploring the nearby towns in the Blue Ridge Mountains. The nearby town of Brasstown was settled by the Cherokee people, and its rich history makes it another must-visit destination.
On your next North Georgia trip, be sure to carve out some time for Brasstown Bald – the highest peak in the state of Georgia. It’s a bucket list item worthy of the praise it receives!
Amenities at the Top
Brasstown Bald is one of the most popular North Georgia destinations, so it’s well equipped with amenities. Along with several great hiking trails, you’ll find a visitor center, picnic areas, and more fun things to do. When you’re not hiking the highest mountain, enjoy:
- Picnic areas with mountaintop views from Brasstown Bald
- The natural science center and history museum
- 3 trailheads easily accessible from the parking area
- 360-degree views from the Brasstown Bald mountain Observation Deck
- Locally made and sourced goods at the general store
- Restrooms and water fountains near the parking lot
At the visitor center, be sure to grab the Visitor Center Passport. Get a stamp during your visit here, check out the other visitor centers on the list, and then receive the special edition token when you collect all 5 stamps! The Visitor Center Passport includes:
- Anna Ruby Falls
- Brasstown Bald
- Northwest Trading Post
- Pisgah Visitor Center
- The Cradle
There are also some fun activities for kids in the North Georgia mountains! Stop by to ask for a scavenger hunt (with prizes when kids finish) or let kids 9 and older participate in the beloved Junior Ranger program, which encourages kiddos to visit state parks throughout the country. Those who complete the Junior Ranger programs receive patches!
Hiking Trails at Brasstown Bald
Arkaquah Trail | 5.5 miles | Switchbacks + Varied Terrain
Begin in the main Brasstown Bald parking area and make your way across a creek, through rhododendron and a canopy of trees, and past petroglyphs for a unique hike in North Georgia! The hike will end at Track Rock Gap.
Brasstown Bald Trail | ½ mile | Steep + Paved
Start this hike at the parking area for the Brasstown Bald Visitor Center and make the steep trek up. While it’s paved, this trail can certainly be a challenge. If you’re not up for hiking it, hop aboard a shuttle ($) here.
Jacks Knob Trail | 4.5 miles | Steep + Switchbacks
The full trail leads to the Appalachian Trail, but you can do a partial hike and still get great views. Enjoy a challenging hike before stopping by the Brasstown Bald Visitor Center to rest and recharge.
Wagon Train Trail | 5.8 miles | History + Wilderness
This hike blends history and nature. Originally part of Georgia Route 66, Wagon Train Trail is a wilderness trail now used by hikers and horseback riders. It leads through lush canopy, moss, and outcroppings to offer some fantastic mountain views. The trail ends at Young Harris College.
Contact Info for Brasstown Bald
If you have questions about the area or need non-emergency assistance, you can contact the Blue Ridge Ranger District or call the Brasstown Bald Visitor Center. You can also contact the visitor center for more information about annual passes if you plan to visit again soon! Annual passes are just $25 per person, or you can purchase a Friends and Family Pass for just $35. It allows entrance for the pass holder plus 2 more adults.
Blue Ridge Ranger District
706.745.6928
Brasstown Bald Office
Special events and group outings
706.896.4137
Brasstown Bald Visitor Center
706.896.2556
Liberti Gates
Educational programs
liberti@gofindoutdoors.org
Things to Know
Cost: $5 per person ($3 after hours), FREE for kids under 16
Covers: Entrance to the visitor center, day use of the Brasstown Bald area, and shuttle service
Closes November 29 and opens again in April
Hours: Thursday – Monday from 10 AM – 5 PM
You can hop on a hiking trail at any time, but facilities (restrooms, visitor center, shuttle, etc.) are not open outside of their operating hours.
Shuttle Times: The shuttle runs during business hours except from 12:30 to 1:10 PM. The last shuttle to the Brasstown Bald summit is at 4:30 PM.
Dogs are allowed (on leash) in the area, but they are not allowed inside the visitor center. Drones are not allowed, and smoking is only allowed outside in the parking areas.
