Green Mountain and Lake Blue Ridge Loop

The Green Mountain Trail, which forms the core of this loop, is generally considered to be of intermediate difficulty. While some sections are surprisingly steep, particularly the five short ascents towards Green Mountain's summit, they are manageable. Expect roots and rock obstacles in places, making some parts a bit technical. The descent towards Lake Blue Ridge is about 2.4 miles long.

The trail traverses through a forest primarily composed of Southern Appalachian hardwood trees. You'll experience gradual climbs, steeper ascents, and descents, with sections featuring roots and rocks. Portions of the trail also run alongside the Lake Blue Ridge Shoreline.

A common starting point for this loop is the Deep Gap trailhead, which is conveniently located off Aska Road. This is a well-known access point for the Aska Trail System.

The primary draw of this route is its intermittent and expansive views of Lake Blue Ridge. You'll find excellent vistas from the mountaintop and specific overlooks during the descent, particularly of Charlie's Cove. A notable open view of Lake Blue Ridge at the meeting point of two lake fingers is often considered the best view, especially around the 2.7-mile mark. The highlight View of Green Mountain and Lake Blue Ridge is also a key point.

While beautiful year-round, winter offers some of the best views of Lake Blue Ridge and the Toccoa River due to less foliage on the trees. During other seasons, the dense forest cover might obscure some of the continuous lake views, though side trails can lead closer to the water.

Yes, the trails within the Aska Trail System, including this loop, are generally dog-friendly. Please ensure your dog is kept on a leash and that you clean up after them to maintain the trail for everyone.

Typically, there are no specific permits or entrance fees required to hike the trails within the Aska Trail System, including the Green Mountain and Lake Blue Ridge Loop. However, it's always a good idea to check the latest regulations from the local forest service or park authority before your visit.

Yes, the Green Mountain Trail is a key component of the larger Aska Trail System. This route primarily follows the Whissenhunt Loop (93% of the route) and also passes through sections of Lower Green Mountain (38%), Green Mountain Connector (17%), Stanley Gap (6%), Long Branch Loop Connector (6%), and Flat Creek Loop (4%). This interconnectedness allows for various route combinations if you wish to extend your hike.

Given its intermediate difficulty, including steep sections and rocky terrain, the Green Mountain and Lake Blue Ridge Loop might be challenging for very young children or those new to hiking. There is a separate, shorter "Lake Blue Ridge Loop" (0.8 to 1 mile) directly along the lake that is easier and more suitable for all ages, but this specific Green Mountain loop is more strenuous.

For this moderate hike, we recommend bringing plenty of water, sturdy hiking shoes with good ankle support, snacks, a map or GPS device (like komoot!), and appropriate layers of clothing for changing weather conditions. Trekking poles can also be helpful for the steeper sections and descents.

For the most spectacular views of Lake Blue Ridge, plan your hike during the late fall or winter months. With the leaves off the trees, the vistas, especially of the Toccoa River and the south end of the lake, become significantly more expansive and clear. Also, keep an eye out for the specific open view at approximately 2.7 miles into the Green Mountain Trail, where two lake fingers meet.