Monday Morning at Gold Branch (Beginners Welcome)

It's Patty's 100th AOC event!!  She's waited and planned to have this hike with her Monday morning group, so come celebrate her achievement with us.

Gold Branch is an exciting trail to hike. We will be near the shoreline for much of the hike, making for some very scenic views.  There are hills throughout the park, though none are terribly long.  We'll wait at the top for everyone, so don't fear being left behind.  Hiking poles will definitely help if you have them.

This is a unit of the CNRA, so a $5 parking fee is required (if you don't have an annual pass). Be sure to bring the correct amount in cash and arrive in time to purchase a day permit. 

There are no bathroom facilities at Gold Branch, so use a bathroom on the way or be prepared to use trees. (There's a MacDonald's on Lower Roswell Road just 100 yards from Johnson Ferry Road that's a convenient place to stop on your drive.)

NOTE:  The entrance sign for Gold Branch was damaged and it's no longer standing, so there's really nothing to indicate where to turn - - just a gate and a little paved road.  Read the directions carefully, and drive very slowly so you don't miss the turn!

Branch is on Lower Roswell Road, between Johnson Ferry Road and Wileo Road.  The sign is very easy to miss, because it's between some exclusive residential areas and is hidden until you are right at the entrance.  If you're coming from Johnson Ferry Road, it's on the right, about 2 miles from Johnson Ferry.  If you're following Azalea Drive and turn left onto Wileo, be aware that Wileo becomes Lower Roswell Road when you go through the roundabout.  The park is 2 miles further down Lower Roswell - - on your left. Remember, it's very easy to pass right by it, so slow down and look for the little turn-off after 2 miles!  Here is the link providing detailed instructions:

https://www.nps.gov/chat/planyourvisit/upload/TrailMapGoldBranch.pdf

Trail map:  https://www.nps.gov/chat/planyourvisit/upload/TrailMapGoldBranch.pdf