The best running trails in Union County

Embark on a moderate jogging route along the Appalachian Trail to Springer Mountain, a quick yet rewarding experience. This 2.0 miles (3.2 km) segment guides you through a diverse deciduous forest, where you will often spot mossy boulders along the path. You will gain 378 feet (115 metres) in elevation, and the entire journey typically takes about 23 minutes to complete. Reaching the summit of Springer Mountain offers outstanding westward views of the southern Appalachians, particularly vibrant during wildflower season or autumn.

When planning your visit, you will find that this specific section of the Appalachian Trail is quite manageable for a quick jog. Be aware that while it is shorter, the terrain can still be rocky in certain areas, so wear appropriate footwear. Parking is generally available near the trailhead, making access straightforward for a convenient outing. Consider starting your jog in the morning to enjoy cooler temperatures and clearer views from the summit.

This route provides a taste of the Georgia wilderness without committing to the more strenuous full Approach Trail from Amicalola Falls. It is an excellent way to experience a piece of the iconic Appalachian Trail, known for its extensive network and natural beauty. The trail's setting within the Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest ensures a peaceful and scenic environment for your activity.

Prepare for a challenging jogging experience on the Brawley Mountain Lookout Tower loop, a difficult route that covers 5.4 miles (8.7 km) with a significant 1101 feet (336 metres) of elevation gain. You can expect varied terrain and a strenuous workout, especially with the steep climb to Tipton Mountain and the final push towards Brawley Mountain. While the summit itself doesn't offer a wide-open vista, the Brawley Mountain Lookout Tower stands as a prominent landmark along your journey, and during winter, you might catch glimpses of Blue Ridge Lake and the distant Appalachian mountains.

This loop begins and ends conveniently at Wilscot Gap, making access straightforward. The estimated duration for this jogging route is around 1 hour and 14 minutes, so plan your start time accordingly. Be ready for rugged sections, particularly on the Benton MacKaye Trail portion, and a quieter dirt road experience on NFR 45. No specific permits or fees are required to enjoy this trail.

This route takes you through the beautiful Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest, offering a rewarding experience for those who enjoy a tough jog. The trail is notable for its significant elevation changes and the presence of the historic Brawley Mountain Lookout Tower, even though you cannot access the tower itself. It's a great option if you are looking for a demanding workout within a natural forest setting.

Embark on a moderate jogging route that combines the Benton MacKaye, Owen's Overlook, and Appalachian Trails, offering a rewarding workout through diverse landscapes. This 4.1-mile (6.6 km) loop features significant elevation changes, gaining 700 feet (213 metres) over an estimated 53 minutes. As you jog, you will experience rugged terrain, including rocky sections and beautiful views of the southern Appalachian mountains, especially from the Owen Vista.

This route is located within the Blue Ridge Wildlife Management Area, so it is wise to check with local authorities for any required permits before your visit. Parking is generally available near the trailheads that provide access to Springer Mountain, which serves as a common starting point for both major trails. Plan your visit during favorable weather to best enjoy the scenic forests and valleys.

The trail holds historical significance, connecting to the starting points of both the Appalachian Trail and the Benton MacKaye Trail. You will jog through diverse hardwood forests and mossy stream valleys, typical of the Blue Ridge Mountains. This area offers a unique opportunity to experience a section of two iconic long-distance trails, providing a glimpse into their rich heritage and natural beauty.

Get ready for a challenging jogging experience on the Benton MacKaye and Tooni Mountain Loop, a difficult route spanning 6.9 miles (11.1 km). You'll navigate varied terrain, from gravel and unpaved paths to natural ground, as you climb 987 feet (301 metres) through lush forests. Expect to spend around 1 hours and 29 minutes on this loop, which offers ridgeline views and numerous stream crossings. Keep an eye out for the impressive Toccoa River Swinging Bridge, a key landmark along the way. The trail provides a primitive wilderness feel, with rugged sections and steep ascents and descents that demand good fitness.

When planning your visit, remember that this loop combines parts of the Benton MacKaye Trail, Duncan Ridge Trail, and Tooni Gap Road. Because it's a primitive trail experience within wilderness areas, expect less development and fewer amenities. While Tooni Gap Road offers a wider dirt path, other sections of the Benton MacKaye Trail are rugged, so come prepared for steep climbs and descents. Good physical condition is essential for tackling the demanding nature of this route.

This trail stands out for its authentic Southern Appalachian Mountains character, featuring the typical stream crossings and dense forest cover of the region. You'll find potential viewpoints along Wallalah Mountain, adding to the scenic rewards of your effort. The route's combination of well-known trails like the Benton MacKaye with less developed sections creates a unique and immersive outdoor experience. It's a great option if you're looking for a substantial jogging challenge in the Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest.

Jog the moderate 6.4-mile Cooper Creek Loop Trail in Coopers Creek Wildlife Management Area, gaining 900 feet in 1 hour 21 minutes.

Embark on a moderate jogging route through the Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest, covering 4.7 miles (7.5 km) with a challenging 780 feet (238 metres) of elevation gain. This loop, estimated to take around 59 minutes, guides you through dense forests where laurel and rhododendron line creeksides. You will encounter varied terrain, from unpaved surfaces to ridgetop pathways, offering glimpses of the surrounding mountains. Expect to navigate both gentle slopes and steeper ascents as you complete the circuit.

Prepare for significant elevation changes, especially around Wilscot Gap, where you will face immediate climbs of several hundred feet. The unpaved and gravel sections demand good fitness and sure-footedness. Parking is generally available at trailheads along the Benton MacKaye Trail, but it is wise to check local details for this specific loop before you go. This route is best enjoyed when conditions are dry, allowing for a safer and more pleasant jogging experience.

This section of the Benton MacKaye Trail promises natural beauty and solitude, immersing you in a pristine forest environment. While the summit of Deadennen Mountain itself offers few expansive views, you will find glorious ridgeline vistas and mountain stream crossings along the broader trail. Depending on the season, you might see vibrant wildflowers or striking fall foliage, adding to the trail's appeal.

Jog the moderate Appalachian and Benton MacKaye Trail Loop for 4.4 miles (7.0 km) through Southern Appalachian forests and ridgeline views.

Jog the moderate 4.7-mile Appalachian Trail and Long Creek Falls Loop in Chattahoochee National Forest, featuring a 50-foot waterfall.

Jog the difficult 10.2-mile Long Creek Falls loop in Blue Ridge Wildlife Management Area, featuring a 50-foot waterfall.