September 26, 2023
Willis Knob Horse Trail-Chattooga River Section
This was an easy hike on a pleasant early fall day in Northeast Georgia. The trail was in fair condition, but did have a number or short sections of "trail gullies," loose medium-sized rock and mud holes from frequent use by horse traffic. Just a few wildflowers today, but some interesting mushrooms. The visually enjoyable part of this hike was hiking along two short, mostly calm sections of the Chattooga River. This trail would not be as enjoyable shortly after a rain event since the holes and gullies would indeed be muddy. This could be completed as a loop by continuing up the trail and returning on the Bartram Trail . . . might be as many as three wet crossings, however.
Today Hikers: Michele Volz, Matt Henderson, Betty Smith, Jane Brown & Squirt, Lynn Hotle, Phil Steele, Jenny Bell, Edwin Pruitt, Lynn Steele, Jack Treadman, Ken Kellerman & Cutie Pie, Renée Corbett, Mike Bell, Vic Robson, Terre Pratt & Shelia Getman.
The route
6.4 mi · 761 ft climbing · 3h 27m out, 2h 51m walking · 2.2 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%
18 photos are shown on the map where they were taken — click one to see it full size.
Photos (18)
Just a pleasant day on the trail with this view of one of the more "tame" sections of the Chattooga River. Today Hikers (L-R) Back: Michele, Matt, Betty, Jane, Lynn H., Phil, Jenny, Edwin, Lynn S., Jack, Ken & Cutie Pie; Front: Renee, Squirt, Mike, Vic, Terre & Shelia. The trailhead is just up the road from parking along the side of Willis Knob Rd. Surprisingly nice signs at major trail intersections. Typical trail well worn by horse traffic, but watch where you step! There were a few mud holes along the way, but Cutie Pie and Squirt didn't seem to care. Typical fall wildflowers still hanging in there. You've got to love the Chattooga River here with great reflections this morning! Don't forget to hydrate Vic! Checking out the Chattooga River before having lunch. Squirt says, "Come on in. The water is great!" A short break before heading back. Lynn Steele spotted this beautiful setting of moss and partridge berries on the trunk of a tree. Fungus of the day, a Grey-Capped Mushroom! One last, short stop on the way back. Cutie Pie says, "I'm tired, and if I look pitiful enough, perhaps someone will pick me up and carry me back." I believe Jane Brown pointed out the pretty fall color of this Devil's Walking Stick. Just the beginning of more fall colors.