Courthouse Gap to Wilson Gap on the Bartram Trail

Here is a lovely winter walk in the woods, over gently rolling hills, with winter vistas in several directions and one big view. From the parking area we hike 1.2 miles on a side trail to reach Courthouse Gap (2600 ft) and then we are in spacious hardwood forest. We have a gradual climb to near the top of Rock Mtn (3350 ft), descend to Windy Gap, then ascend to Black Creek's Knob (3490 ft), and descend to Wilson Gap (3220 ft) where we will have lunch and turn around. On the way back, if the weather is clear and sunny, we will make a short detour to the top of Rock Mountain for a wide view to the west. This involves an easy bushwhack of about half a mile up and the same distance down. The total distance is 11 miles with an estimated elevation gain of 2200 ft., making this hike a difficult D4 or an easy D5.

Eva will be coordinating the carpool at Indian Trail Park-and-Ride and will direct everyone to the Clayton Burger King, where Dorothea will be waiting at 10:00. It should take about 10 minutes to drive to the trailhead. Since parking at the trailhead is limited, we will take no more than two cars.

We will have dinner in Clayton after the hike. If you need to return to Atlanta early, you should arrange to drive separately or carpool with others who cannot stay for dinner.

From the Indian Trail park & ride, take I-85 North. After 11 miles bear left to take I-985 North. This road will change to GA 365, US 441, and US 23. Stay on it for 75 miles, then stop at the Burger King in Clayton for a pit- stop and to meet the leader. To drive to the parking area at the trailhead, take Warwoman Road out of Clayton. After 0.8 miles turn left on Pinnacle Drive and go 1.1 miles, passing by Camp Pinnacle, to Courthouse Gap Road and turn right. 0.2 miles up this road is a parking area under high- voltage power lines.

If you have not recently done a D4 hike with the AOC, we will be contacting you to confirm that the hike is suitable for you.