wander
There are countless trails in the area with varying lengths and degrees of difficulty.
We’ve curated a short list but encourage you to search for trails that best suit your goals - be that to wander slowly through the woods or to get your heart pumping on a challenging or longer trail.
Tumbling Waters trail
photo credit: Lila Hartline via AllTrails
This 1.0 mile out-and-back trail is about 30 minutes from Wanderwoods Retreat. It is generally considered a moderately challenging route and takes an average of 24 min to complete. The trail offers breathtaking views of the nearby river, falls, and surrounding area. Others appreciate the beautiful views, family-friendly atmosphere, and accessibility for dogs but note numerous roots and some steep sections. Please note that the trail runs parallel to the mountain bike trail, so it is essential to follow the foot trail to avoid accidents.
Bear Creek and Pinhoti Loop
photo credit: Tom . via AllTails
This is a 6.5 mile loop less than 30 minutes from Wanderwoods Retreat. It’s considered a moderately challenging route, it takes an average of 3 hours to complete. This is quiet hike with plenty of shade and water crossings to keep you cool in the summer. Others appreciate well-maintained trails and beautiful scenery but note steep climbs and tight gravel roads. Hikers have suggested going counterclockwise for better views. A highlight on the trail is Gennett Poplar, which is the second largest tree in Georgia.
Cartecay River Loop
photo credit: Rachael Rourke via AllTrails
This 3.7 mile loop is about 20 minutes from Wanderwoods Retreat. It is generally considered a moderately challenging route and takes an average of 1.5 hours to complete. The trail offers beautiful river views on well-maintained paths with an area for swimming. Others recommend going clockwise around the loop and starting early. Much of the trail is noted to be flat but there are a few steep bits of elevation. Hikers note the rocks can be slippery after rain.
Owen's Overlook loop
photo credit: Patrick Price via AllTrails
This is a 4.2 mile loop is about an hour from Wanderwoods Retreat and reaches Owen's Overlook while exploring parts of both the Benton MacKaye Trail (BMT) and Appalachian Trail (AT). It’s considered a moderately challenging route, it takes an average of 2 hours to complete. This hike has a peaceful atmosphere with plenty of shade and stream crossings to keep you cool. Hikers note the road is bumpy getting to the trail and suggest starting early. This loop does not take you to the top of Springer Mountain, but you can choose to take the extra spur trail to the top for the views.