Fall Creek Waterfall and Oglethorpe Mountain

Bring your Georgia Lands Pass WMA permit. See the info in the "Notes" section below for instructions on obtaining these permits. A day permit costs $5, but for a little additional money, you may want to consider an annual Georgia Fishing License which also serves as an annual WMA permit.

We will drive to Monument Road outside Jasper, Georgia for easy access to Tobacco Pouch Trail and the Dawson Wildlife Management Area. Other than at trailheads, you typically never run into another person in this little-used area. 

Before we begin our hike from Tobacco Pouch, we will drive a short distance further up Monument Road to historic Oglethorpe Mountain, where we will hike a short 0.7-mile loop at Eagle's Rest Park. There are viewing platforms along the way for great early-morning views of the surrounding mountains and Atlanta. This is also the original beginning of the Appalachian Trail where Earl Shaffer and Ma Gatewood began their landmark hikes. We will take our time here to enjoy the views and to read the historical marker.

Next, we will return to Tobacco Pouch for the main event with 2500 feet vertical over 12 miles. We will try to maintain a 2.7 mph average speed. This hike involves steep descents and climbs into and out of the creek valleys where during wetter seasons with more rain the reward of plunging waters and waterfalls awaits, including Falls Creek Falls. With the dry weather, I don't expect much flow in the waterfalls.

Also, be aware that there will be multiple wet feet creek crossings. Be warned, I may ask that you wade through a creek rather than attempting risky rock hops or rope holds. Here, there has been more than one AOC hiker who went for unplanned headfirst dips in the water during attempts to stay dry by holding ropes or balancing on slippery rocks. Again, since it has been dry, the creek crossings should be more manageable than usual.

All Trails Route

https://www.alltrails.com/explore/recording/afternoon-hike-at-wildcat- creek-loop-trail-98dce83

Take I-575 toward Jasper.

At Jasper, take a right on GA Hwy 53.

Pass through downtown Jasper and look for Allen Tires on the left and a Walgreens straight ahead.

Take a left before Walgreens onto Burnt Mountain Road (GA Hwy 136 E)

After 11.2 miles on Burnt Mountain Road, turn right onto Monument Road.

Follow Monument Road to a pull-off in 3.1 miles.

Google Directions from the carpool site (Home Depot at Sixes Rd to Tobacco Pouch)

https://maps.app.goo.gl/X8jruhiot6WNRoQk8

Each person ( age 16+) MUST possess a valid hunting license, fishing license, or Georgia Lands Pass to enter this property ( EVEN IF YOU ARE NOT HUNTING OR FISHING!) . This can be purchased online at gooutdoorsgeorgia.com. or by calling 1-800-366- 2661. All persons must have proof of purchase for their Hunting License, or Fishing License, or Georgia Lands Pass on their person while on the property. This is STRICTLY ENFORCED!