A TRAIL RUNS THROUGH IT
Blairsville-Union County is
a proud “AT Community,”
recognized for our efforts
to promote and protect the
Appalachian Trail — and to
provide support to those
who hike it. Thru-hikers
can catch a shuttle to town
and enjoy special discounts
on lodging, dining and supplies
from the AT Community Supporters in the area.
In Union County, the Appalachian Trail traverses
three high mountain gaps — Hog Pen Gap, Jack’s
Knob and Jarrard Gap — which provide direct access
to the AT and are reached by paved roadways. In
addition, there are a variety of other access trails that
intersect the AT throughout the County.
A unique feature of the AT in Union County is a small
section that runs through the Walasi-Yi Interpretive
Center — the only section of the trail that runs
through a manmade structure. Whether heading
north or south on the AT, hikers use the local outfitters,
Mountain Crossings, as a place to resupply, rest
up at the hostel and pick up mail. Many also take
advantage of Mountain Crossings’ Trail-famous
“shakedown” to help lighten their loads. You can
also reach Walasi-Yi and Mountain Crossings by car
off GA 19/129 at Neel Gap.
Completed in August of 1937, the Appalachian Trail
is one of the longest marked footpaths in the world,
measuring roughly 2,190 miles. The AT winds
through 14 states — from the southern terminus at
nearby Springer Mountain, Georgia, to the northern
terminus at Katahdin, Maine. It is estimated that 3
million people visit the Trail each year, and more
than 3,000 people attempt a full thru-hike.
38 » Attractions & Recreation
Lake Nottely encompasses 4,000 acres, providing plenty of
room for boaters, skiers and fishermen to enjoy.
LAKE TRAHLYTA
405 Vogel State Park Road, Blairsville
(706) 745-2628
www.gastateparks.org/Vogel
Located inside Vogel State Park, this
20-acre lake is named for a Cherokee
maiden. Visitors enjoy non-motorized
boating (kayak and paddleboat rentals
available), swimming, camping,
fishing, picnicking, hiking, wildlife
viewing, miniature golf, a playground
and rental cabins.
LAKE WINFIELD SCOTT
GA 180, Suches
(706) 745-6928 | www.fs.usda.gov
Seeking solitude? Head south from
Blairsville on GA 180 to the small
town of Suches and 18-acre Lake
Winfield Scott. Built by the CCC, this
man-made lake is a quiet gem. Sit on
the sandy beach, fish the freshwater
lake, boat, camp, picnic, hike and
swim.
/Vogel
/www.fs.usda.gov