Tray Mountain Up, Down, and Back - 7:30 AM Carpool

“You are not in the mountains. The mountains are in you.” — John Muir

Embark on an exhilarating adventure! Our journey begins at Unicoi Gap, nestled just north of charming Helen, Georgia. Lace up your boots, for we’re about to conquer 5.1 thrilling miles (10.2 roundtrip) along the legendary Appalachian Trail. Our destination? None other than the majestic Tray Mountain!

Why Tray Mountain? Brace yourself, fellow hiker, because this peak isn’t just any summit. It’s a panoramic wonderland, rivaling even the famed Blood Mountain. As we ascend, the forest canopy gives way to open skies, and suddenly, you’re standing at the crossroads of awe and exhilaration.

360-Degree Vistas Await: At the top, catch your breath and prepare for sensory overload. Spin around—yes, all the way!—and feast your eyes on a 360-degree symphony of beauty. The rolling Appalachian hills stretch out like a quilt beneath you. The sun paints the landscape in hues of gold and green. And there, my friend, is where adventure whispers secrets to the wind.

So, tighten those bootlaces, feel the earth beneath your soles, and let Tray Mountain unveil its grandeur. This isn’t just a hike; it’s a soul-stirring ascent to nature’s throne.

This hike is for fun-loving people and those who enjoy being around others. Some of us like to make jokes, tell stories, and have a good laugh. If you're easily offended or prefer a quiet walk in the park, this hike is probably not for you. You've been warned!

Trail Itinerary:

Approximate Altitude Changes
Ascend 1,125 feet to the top of Rocky Mountain at 1.3 miles
Descend 975 feet to Indian Grave Gap at 2.6 miles
Ascend 1,400 feet to the top of Tray Mountain at 5.1 miles
Total Ascent (round trip): 3,500 feet
Miles 0.0 parking area, trail begins at far end
0.3 right switchback left switchback
0.6 step across small stream
1.0 trail levels off somewhat
1.3 top of Rocky Mountain
1.4 break in foliage offers good view on right (the half dome, south, is Yonah Mt.)
1.5 beginning of frequent views right, begin descent down right side of ridge
1.7 right, then left, switchback
2.6 Indian Grave Gap
3.3 cross dirt road
3.4 trail levels off somewhat
3.6 cross gap
4.1 rock outcropping on right provides good winter view grassy road on left
4.3 Tray Gap, bear right across roads
4.4 first of several switchbacks
4.9 rocky outcropping on left with good view, right switchback
5.1 top of Tray Mountain

This is an in and out hike. Total distance is 10.2 miles to and from the top of Tray Mountain.   We will spend 10-15 minutes at the top of Tray for a quick snack and view of the surrounding area.  Lastly, there will not be a sweeper for this hike so everyone is expected to keep up with the group. 

- Notes -

itinerary may change before or during event depending on weather, trail conditions, or other factors. We'll keep you updated if anything changes before or during the hike.

Event finishing time can fluctuate and dependent on the group hiking speed and other circumstances, so please be flexible..

If you're a Garmin user, please join our 'Atlanta Outdoor Club (AOC) Garmin Users' group to connect with other AOC Garmin users and track your activity. Join us at:  https://connect. garmin.com/modern/group/2255568

North on GA 400 from the park and ride. When GA 400 ends at Chevron station. continue on GA 115. Go 4.8 miles where GA 115 meets GA 52. Turn right. Continue on GA 115 until Cleveland GA. At traffic circle in Cleveland go north on US 129.

Continue past GA 75 to Alt GA 75. Take a right on Alt GA 75. Continue until Alt 75 ends at GA 75. Take left away from Helen. Continue on GA 75 until signs you see signs for AT parking lot on right side of highway.

This trip is for hikers with recent experience of hiking at least 8 or more miles in the mountains.

Please bring plenty of conversation and a sense of humor :)

Late cancellations, particularly within 36 hours of the event make it difficult for those on the wait list to attend. Please be courteous to your fellow AOC members and cancel with as much notice as possible.