It seems like we’ve been doing the same old Valentine’s Day traditions for an eternity. Roses, candle-lit dinner, maybe a movie, and late-night champagne.
Maybe it’s time to shake things up, and what better way, than an energetic day out in nature, scaling mountains, seeing beautiful vistas and waterfalls, and maybe enjoying a cold one after a picnic lunch with your special someone?
For your Valentine’s Day 2022, we have 6 awesome day hikes in North Georgia that suit any couple, no matter their age or skill level.
Brasstown Bald
I always put Brasstown Bald at the top of any list I write, because for one, it’s the tallest mountain in Georgia and nearly always offers a stunning 360-degree view from its peak observation deck. But I also like to recommend it, because the trails surrounding Georgia’s highest point have something to offer for virtually anyone. If you’re looking for a short hike with a great view, park at the Brasstown Bald Visitor Center and hike the .5 mile out and back trail to the top. If a challenge with a big payoff is more your speed, start at the Jacks Knob Trail parking area and take the 6.2 miles out and back trail to the peak.
Difficulty: Easy-Difficult
Mileage: 1 mile (via the Brasstown Bald Trail) 6.2 miles (via the Jacks Gap Trail)
Tallulah Gorge
Possibly one of the most beautiful locations in Georgia, Tallulah Gorge State Park in far Northwest Georgia is truly a sight to behold. Surrounded by hiking trails, campsites and views overlooking the gorge, this destination should definitely be on your shortlist of places to take your valentine in 2022. Check out the Tallulah Gorge North and South Loop Trails, which will take you 2 miles past multiple views overlooking the gorge and Hurricane Falls.
Difficulty: Easy
Mileage: 1-5+ miles
Mount Yonah
Yonah Mountain is a day hike that will rival anything else in Georgia. With just over 1,500 feet of elevation gain in 2.4 miles, this out and back trail will leave your legs burning and your lungs searching for air. The first 2.4 miles are up, up, and up the side of Yonah Mountain, and the last 2.4 are right back down. This is a popular hike and is used to train U.S Army Rangers. The view at the top will leave you breathless and it is worth the climb.
Difficulty: Moderate
Mileage: 4.8 Miles
Blood Mountain
Topping out at 4,458 feet in elevation, Blood Mountain is the highest peak on the Appalachian Trail in Georgia, and your legs will feel every foot of it. The views are spectacular at the top and rival those seen in the Rocky Mountains. Be sure to plan on having lunch at the top to soak in the entire experience. Blood Mountain Day hike is an out and back starting at the Byron Reece parking lot and going to the summit. The total trip out and back is approximately 5 miles.
Difficulty: Hard
Mileage: 5 miles
Cloudland Canyon
Like Brasstown Bald, Cloudland Canyon State Park is a great option no matter who you are, because it has trails and sights for just about anyone. If you’re looking for a challenging climb down into the canyon with waterfalls take the 5 miles out and back Sitton’s Gulch Trail. But if something more lowkey is more your style, check out the 4-mile West Rim Loop Trail.
Difficulty: Easy-Difficult
Mileage: 1-10+ miles
Chicopee Woods Nature Preserve
Hidden in the growing North Georgia city of Gainesville is a system of trails that will take you away from the traffic and city noise for a few hours or a whole day. Chicopee Woods Park contains miles and miles of hiking and walking trails that take you through the forest, around a picturesque pond, and along babbling streams. Numerous great spots for a picnic littler this spacious park.
Difficulty: Easy
Mileage: 1-8+ miles
