Appalachian Trail: Dicks Creek Gap to Bly Gap, NC

Backpack the Appalachian Trail from Dicks Creek Gap to Georgia’s northern border at Bly Gap, visiting a gnarled old oak near the state line and passing a number of fantastic backpacking campsites.

Winding through Georgia’s rolling southern Appalachian Mountains, the Appalachian Trail catches stunning summit views from legendary mountains like Blood and Cowrock, and dives into beautiful creek valleys like Three Forks on its northbound journey toward Bly Gap. This hike on Georgia’s northernmost stretch of the AT lacks an impressive summit view like some of its more southern segments. But this stretch of the famed trail explores mile after mile of beautiful, fern-and-moss-filled forests. Numerous campsites flank the trail, making it a great overnight backpacking trip. And highlights on this adventure include the Plum Orchard AT shelter, and crossing the North Carolina state line to visit to a gnarled, old oak tree at Bly Gap.

It’s a scenic adventure, for sure. Just not in the ‘stunning summit views’ way. It spans over 17 miles, round trip, with plenty of rolling climbs. This hike is a fantastic workout and makes for a great trail run, too.

The Appalachian Trail at Dicks Creek Gap

The adventure begins at Dicks Creek Gap on Highway 76 just east of Hiawassee (view maps and driving directions). From the gap, the hike follows the Appalachian Trail’s signature white trail blazes northeast.

The hike follows the meanders of a small stream, a tributary of Dick’s Creek. Downstream, the creek cascades in the stunning waterfall at Dicks Creek Falls. The trail climbs elevation steadily, passing the first of many campsites at under a half-mile. It descends briefly before beginning a second climb toward Little Bald Knob and passing a second campsite at 1 mile. The hike crests again at 1.35 miles before plunging yet again, following a creek on the left and another campsite at just under 1.5 miles.

The trail crosses through Cowart Gap at 1.75 miles, passing campsites before beginning a considerable, unwavering climb. The trail reaches Buzzard Knob at 3 miles after passing a small rock outcrop on the trail’s right side. Rolling elevation through dense groves of rhododendron, the hike reaches Plum Orchard Gap at 4.35 miles.

A blue-blazed side trail departs on the trail’s right side, hiking a short quarter-mile eastbound to the Plum Orchard Gap shelter and Plum Orchard Creek.

Numerous campsites speckle the grounds at Plum Orchard Gap, offering a great midpoint camping spot before reaching the state line.

Departing the gap, the AT climbs to crest the curiously named As Knob, passing through a forest filled with fern and gnarled mountain laurel and descending to Blue Ridge Gap. Hiking through Blue Ridge Gap, the AT crosses a gravel road and ascends elevation. The AT passes two off-trail campsites and a trickling spring near Rich Cove Gap at 6.5 miles.

The trail rolls elevation over the next two miles, steadily climbing toward the Georgia border. A large, mossy, gray rock outcrop towers over the trail just before the hike the AT crosses the Georgia – North Carolina state line at 8.5 miles.

Now in North Carolina, the AT continues to climb towards Bly Gap. The trail passes a campsite on the right before arcing northeast, reaching Bly Gap and a gnarled, old oak tree at 8.7 miles. Just past the tree, a small clearing provides limited views of the distant rolling peaks of the Nantahala National Forest. From here, the Appalachian Trail continues its northbound journey through North Carolina, climbing through dense rhododendron thickets to the summit of Standing Indian Mountain, rolling through Carter Gap near the tumbling waterfall at Big Laurel Falls, and climbing to exceptional, 360-degree panoramic views at Albert Mountain, catching views from the mountain’s historic steel fire lookout tower.

From here, this hike turns to retrace its outbound steps on the AT, reaching Dicks Creek Gap at 17.4 miles and completing the adventure.

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Campsites

Campsites frequently dot this stretch of the AT, and the trail’s out-and-back length makes a great weekend backpacking trip. Our favorite site? The campsites near Rich Cove Gap, at 6.5 miles outbound from Dicks Creek Gap, They’re large, shady, and accommodate several tents. There’s a spring nearby, and ample room to hang a few ENO hammocks for some incredible mid-hike relaxation.

ADVENTURE INTO HIAWASSEE

Before hitting the trail, swing into town to get your last-minute essentials for a night under the stars at our hiking outfitter shop in Hiawassee, Trailful Outdoor Co. We carry a selection of quality hiking and backpacking gear, from fuel canisters, stoves, and backpacking food to sleeping pads, sleeping bags, tents, and Osprey day packs and backpacks.

Already set for the trip? Head into town after the adventure to refuel at one of the great restaurants in Hiawassee. And then stop by Trailful to say hello to the Atlanta Trails crew! We’ve got a wall full of free trail info that features our favorite nearby waterfalls, mountain summits, and Appalachian Trail sections to help you find your next adventure. And we carry a wide selection of locally-made mountain and hiking-themed goods and gifts. We’d love to see you!

This map shows our approximate route while exploring this trail, but does not replace an official trail map. Please refer to the official trail map for the most current and accurate route.