Backpack Training at Stone Mountain - Double Ascent

Join me in some backpack training with a double ascent of Stone Mountain. We'll meet at the base of the Walk-Up Trail outside the restrooms near Confederate Hall. We will ascend to the top, hike back down to the railroad tracks, then go up and down again.

This event is intended for backpack training. Plan to bring a pack that weighs as much as you would take on a backpacking trip. This will vary from person to person, and a heavy pack is recommended but optional. We will be taking our time with breaks as needed.

Total elevation gain is 1,356 feet.

Park at Stone Mountain Park ($20 per vehicle or an annual pass that can be purchased at the gate for $40) or in Stone Mountain Village. 

FROM I-285 TO THE PARK'S EAST GATE ENTRANCE:

From the I-285/ US-78 interchange on the east side of town take U.S. Hwy 78 East about 7.7 miles. Bear right at Exit #8 to the Stone Mountain Park "East Gate" main entrance where you'll pay $20 for the daily parking fee if you don't display a valid annual pass.

ONCE INSIDE PARK, DRIVE TO CONFEDERATE HALL PARKING LOT:
After entering via the East Gate, first follow Jefferson Davis Drive about a mile straight ahead to the big road fork, crossing the lake en route. Bear right onto Robert E. Lee Blvd and follow it about another mile, bearing left to avoid the West Gate exit. Look for the spacious Confederate Hall parking lot on your left where we park during the hike. We'll gather at our "usual AOC meetup spot," by the stone restroom building at the base of the Walk-Up Trail (about 100 yards toward the mountain from Confederate Hall).

You can also enter through the WEST GATE ENTRANCE, in Stone Mountain Village. If you enter here, turn right through the gate and you're almost to the Confederate Hall parking lot on your left.