1. Ellijay to Suches

ELLIJAY TO SUCHES – 99 miles

Begin your journey in the picturesque north Georgia mountain town of Ellijay, known for mountain biking, hiking, whitewater kayaking, and its numerous apple orchards and wineries. The track meanders along paved and unpaved county roads through mountain farmland before intersecting with Old Bucktown Road. This rugged two-track road climbs steadily to Nimblewill Gap, where the Appalachian Trail (AT) Approach Trail connects Amicalola Falls to the southern terminus of the AT at Springer Mountain.

From Nimblewill Gap, the road smooths out as it descends the mountain, connecting with Winding Stair Gap Road and the picturesque Noontootla Creek. Stop for a break at Van Zandt’s Grill and Grocery in Dial, a local favorite. Continue on Old Rock Creek, a narrow two-track road, where you can access a 1/3 mile hike to cross the Toccoa River via the longest swinging bridge in the Eastern US.

Visit the US Army Ranger Camp Merrill, home of the Mountain Phase of Ranger training and “The Overhang” café. The route passes near Dahlonega, a quintessential mountain town with restaurants, shopping, and lodging. The final stretch of pavement features a scenic twisty climb over the Woody Gap AT crossing before ending in the charming community of Suches.

Amicalola Falls State Park & Lodge

1,776 ft

Chattahoochee Forest Fish Hatchery

2,200 ft

Dahlonega - Food, Gas, Lodging

1,448 ft

Nimblewill Gap

3,054 ft

Overhang Cafe at Camp Merrill

1,752 ft

Springer Mtn 3780'

3,103 ft

Swinging Bridge Trail

2,044 ft

Toccoa River Swinging Bridge

1,905 ft

Two Wheels Of Suches - Lodging, Food, Camping

2,764 ft

Van Zandt's Grill & Grocery

1,853 ft

CHX1 - Ellijay to Suches

99.0 mi
7,826 ft
-6,297 ft

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