Trout streams meander through the Three Forks valley under the shade of towering trees, slicing through banks bordered by gnarly-branched rhododendron. It’s a cool, shady forest retreat, accessible only via a one-lane gravel road. And it’s one of our favorite outdoor destinations in Georgia.
Hike or backpack from Three Forks on the Appalachian Trail or Benton MacKaye Trail to waterfalls, centuries-old rustic graveyards and the southern end of the Appalachian Trail at Springer Mountain. And stretch the adventure to an overnight under the stars at one of many free, car camping sites off of Forest Road 58 – or backpack into one of many campsites along the Appalachian Trail or Benton MacKaye Trail nearby.
Wondering what to pack for a great night under the stars? Our camping gear list features our favorite tents, sleeping bags, furniture, cookware, and campsite essentials.
Three Forks is located near the North Georgia cities of Ellijay and Blue Ridge, nestled in Georgia’s southern Appalachian Mountains. The valley’s name reflects the convergence of three trout streams near the intersection of Forest Road 58 and the Appalachian Trail.
Three Forks: our favorite hiking trails and campsites
Appalachian Trail
Three Forks to Long Creek Falls
1.9 MILES
Hike the Appalachian Trail just under one mile to this cascading, 50-foot-tall waterfall under a canopy of towering hemlock trees. It’s one of our favorite falls in Georgia.
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Appalachian Trail
Hike from the cool, shady Three Forks valley to Springer Mountain, the southern end of the Appalachian Trail in Georgia.Three Forks to Springer Mountain
8.6 MILES
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Appalachian Trail
Three Forks to the Hawk Mountain AT Shelter
9.1 MILES, ROUND TRIP
Hike the Appalachian Trail to the Long Creek Falls waterfall, the Hawk Mountain AT shelter and a centuries-old, rustic cemetery.
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Car Camping & Backpacking
Three Forks Camping
Overnight at one of many car camping sites, and catch dreams under the stars with the sound of trickling streams and tumbling waterfalls. The campsites are free and first come, first camp – so arrive early to get the best site, and please leave no trace when you pack up and head out.
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Our favorite hiking gear
What to pack for a Three Forks hiking adventure?
Ready to hit the trail, but wondering what to pack? Our hiking gear list features our favorite, trail-tested hiking gear for day hikes on local trails and in the Georgia backcountry. We print and stitch our Atlanta Trails shirts and hats locally in Atlanta and Asheville, and they’re our favorite for trail adventures all over the South. And no matter what you pack in, pack it all back out. Please leave no trace and help preserve Georgia’s beauty.
OUR HIKING GEAR LIST
Please Remember
Always leave no trace, pack out everything you pack in, and if you see trash, pick it up and pack it out.
Stay on the marked trail, tell someone where you're going, pack safety and wayfinding essentials, and don't rely on a mobile phone to find your way. Please always practice good trail etiquette. And before you go, always check the trailhead kiosk, official maps, and the park or ranger office for notices of changed routes, trail closures, safety information, and restrictions.
