Preachers Rock

One of the shortest day hikes along the Appalachian Trail, hike 2-miles roundtrip to Preachers Rock from Woody Gap for an amazing view from a large rock outcrop. A Georgia classic just an hour and a half north of Atlanta, this hike is perfect for beginners young and old, kids, and dogs. The last section is steep but the view rewards your sweat.

For this hike, you'll be heading north along the Appalachian Trail. Parking is available on both sides of the highway at Woody Gap, but the trail begins on the north side with the larger parking lot and the restrooms. On the opposite side of the road is a good view and the AT heading southbound. For another option or a great addition to this hike, you can head south to Ramrock Mountain. This is a popular destination so get there early on nice weekends.

The hike begins next to the restrooms. Immediately side trails to the left and right branch off, but stay straight on the wider path. The first half mile heads uphill at a leasurly rate of 280 ft/mi before dropping down through Lunsford Gap. A side trail on the right heads to a campsite but it's obvious which path to stay on.

This is where the fun begins. The last third of a mile heads up a series of steep switchbacks, climbing just under 300 feet. Along the way you'll pass around large rock formations and stone steps. There's a minor view at the end of one switchback on the way up but nothing compared to the expansive view you get once you reach the large open rock outcropping of Preachers Rock at 1 mile. With beautiful views to the southeast, hang out and soak up some sun on the exposed rock before heading back the way you came.