Autumnal Equinox Hike on the AT - Woody Gap to Jarrard Gap and back

Come celebrate the Autumnal Equinox hiking a portion of the AT followed by a late lunch in Dahlonega. We start at Woody Gap, on Hwy 60, 15 miles north of Dahlonega and hike north along the Appalachian Trail. We’ll warm up quickly with a 550+ foot-climb to the top of Big Cedar Mountain and stop for a moment to take in the view from Preachers Rock looking south. We continue on to descend to Miller Gap, ascend Baker Mountain and descend again to Jarrard Gap. The trail crosses a spring just before reaching Jarrard Gap at 5.8 miles. At Jarrard Gap we will turn around and head back. If the weather is nice, on the way back we’ll take a short break at Preaching Rock again, but wider view to the south. Total elevation gain is about 2500 ft.

After the hike we'll drive into Dehlonega for a meal at Shenanigans, 87 N Chestatee St, Dahlonega, GA 30533. After dinner we'll either drive home or return to the carpool.

This hike is not suitable for beginners or those who have not completed D4 hikes recently.  There a long steep assent at the start and roughly 2000 ft total climbing.

To reduce the number of cars at the trailhead, please consider carpooling.

North on GA 400 from the park and ride. When GA 400 ends at the Chevron station make a left onto US-19/GA60 until you reach Dahlonega. From Dahlonega, take GA 60 north for 15 miles until you reach the parking lot on the top of the mountain at Woody Gap. 

There is a restroom at the trailhead.

I will be contacting anyone who has not recently done a D4 hike with the AOC to determine if this is an appropriate hike for you.