Wednesday Morning at Gold Branch

This will be a moderate trek through the park, covering both the perimeter trail and some of the more challenging cross trails that offer steeper ascents.   The section near the Bull Sluice Lake also necessitates some rock scrambling, so if you fall easily, you might reconsider attempting this hike. The pace will be slower than fitness hike speed, but still enough to get a good workout.  If you can handle the distance and don't mind some rugged terrain, you're welcome to join us.

We will start the hike promptly at 8 am, so please arrive 5-10 minutes early to allow time to buy a parking pass and to meet your fellow hikers. 

Gold Branch is an exciting trail to hike.  The views of the river and Bull Sluice Lake are always beautiful and never fail to lift spirits.   We will be near the shoreline for much of the hike, making for some very scenic views.

We'll allow 3 members with dogs on the hike, so if three dog-people are already registered, please do not add yours.  Dogs should be able to keep up the pace and should be kept under control at all times. If you register to hike with us, it's with the assumption that you will obey the park rules and leash your dog. The reputation of the AOC depends upon members adhering to the park rules.

This is a unit of the CNRA, so a $3 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.)

Gold Branch is on Lower Roswell Road, between Johnson Ferry Road and Wileo Road.  The park entrance is between residential subdivisions and is easy to miss if you're not watching for it.  If you're coming from Johnson Ferry Road, it's on the right, about 2 miles from Johnson Ferry.  If you're coming from Wileo, Atlanta Road, it's about 2 miles from the traffic light at Azalea Drive and Wileo.  If you're following Azalea Drive and turn left onto Wileo, be aware that Wileo becomes Lower Roswell Road when it passes through the roundabout.  Gold Branch is .6 miles further down Lower Roswell - - on your left.   Slow down as you get close!

Here's a traiil map:

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

Coordinates:  33.98431, -84.38536

Remember to bring $3 cash needed for the parking fee at this location.

You can cancel your own registration up to 8 am, the time of the hike.