Albert Mountain/ Standing Indian Loop - no carpool

This is a clockwise hike. Starting at The Standing Indian Campground Backcountry Kiosk (3,950) we will take the Long Branch Trail (east-blue blaze) and intersect with the Appalachian Trail (Glassmine Gap 4,000) We will turn (right) southeast on the A/T to Albert Mountain (5,249) for our first break. After the break we'll proceed to Carter Gap (3,750) at around the half way point of our hike for lunch. After lunch break we start northwest to Standing Indian Mountain.(5,500 ft) After taking in the view we change trails and go north on The Lower Ridge Trail for a sharp descent of around 1,700 ft in 3.75 miles back to the cars. In summary, this is a good, long loop trail - including 15 miles of The AT, 2 major summits with spectacular views! It really does not involve any major climbs! - but lt is long distance. The mountain travel is moderate for a D-6 around 5,100 ft elevation gain. I will request A.O.C. experienced D-5 & D-6 hikes with over several 15 mile North Georgia Mountain hikes within the last 6 months ...The Trip leader does reserve the right to move you back to the waiting list if needed. 

The speed of this hike is MODERATE, so we need to average 2.5 mph to finish this before dark.  

The Standing Indian Campground will be closed for the season, but the road and trails should be open, weather permitting. The Hurricane Creek Primitive Campground should be open.

Credit to Chuck R/Stefan for the picture and trip write-up.

Take I-85 N 10.8 miles to I-985 N 

Follow I-985 23.7 miles to GA-365 N / US-23 N

After 28.9 miles take a slight left and continue to follow US-23 N / US-441 N toward Clayton

After 43.7 miles turn left onto US-64 W

After 11.9 miles turn left onto State Rd 1448 / Allison Creek Rd / W Old Murphy Rd

After 1.9 Miles turn right onto National Forrest Service Rd

Standing Indian Campground will be 1.6 Miles in on your right

GPS Cordinates 35.076616 , -83.528391