October 4, 2022
Begum Gap to Rabun Bald
near Sky Valley, GA
Another great day for a hike with partly cloudy skies, light breeze and cool temperatures between 50-60 degrees. The Bartram Trail from Beegum Gap is a gradual, but continuous climb to Rabun Bald. The trail was dry and in fair condition considering its extensive use, but lots of rocks. For variety, we returned via the Rabun Gap Road, but it was rockier than our approach on the Bartram Trail. We had wonderful views from the tower with just a touch of fall color showing. There were a few late season wildflowers along the trail mostly dominated by the Common Blue Wood Aster. This is a moderately difficult hike.
The route
3.7 mi · 1,017 ft climbing · 3h 21m out, 2h 30m walking · 1.5 mph moving
Elevation
Hover over the profile to see the elevation and steepness. Your position will be shown on the map.
- Steepness
- Gentle under 5%
- Moderate 5–10%
- Steep 10–15%
- Very steep over 15%
17 photos are shown on the map where they were taken — click one to see it full size.
Photos (17)
A panoramic view to the north from the Rabun Bald Tower. Today's hikers (L-R) Back: Jenny, Beth, Lynn, John, Lib, Dick, Edwin, Angela & Ray; Front: Heather, Mike & Vic. Headed up to the trailhead. This trailhead is actually just a short trail to join the Bartram Trail the rest of the way up to Rabun Bald. This is the typical condition of the Bartram Trail on our way up. Lots of Common Blue Wood Aster along this trail. Some, but not a lot of White Wood Aster. Some White Snakeroot, too. The old Rabun Bald Fire Tower. One of the 1933 Coast & Geodetic Survey markers. Another great view from the tower. Very nice stone trail markers atop Rabun Bald. Witch hazel in bloom found at the top of Rabun Bald. Just a few examples of Striped Gentian seen today. Good eye Beth! Trail conditions going down the Rabun Gap Road. The freshest and best mushroom example today. We did encounter this massive deadfall right down the middle of the trail on our way back.