We here at Glen-Ella Springs are glad that summer is almost underway so we can take advantage of the great outdoor activities available in the North Georgia Mountains. Hiking, biking, kayaking, swimming, and wildlife viewing are all calling our name. If you like being outside as much as we do, then you should explore Clarkesville’s neighboring town, Clayton. This charming part of the North Georgia Mountain community is home to beautiful forests and streams and an abundance of recreational opportunities. So, here are a few of our favorite outdoorsy things to do in Clayton, GA.
Outdoorsy Things to Do in Clayton, GA
Whether you want to take to the water or stay on dry land, you’ll find plenty of great outdoorsy things to do in Clayton, GA to keep you busy!
Bartram Trail
Bartram Trail is a multi-state trail that follows a route naturalist William Bartram took during his exploration of the American south. While the Bartram Trail spans from Georgia to North Carolina, Bartram also explored the southern lands that are now South Carolina, Florida, Alabama, Mississippi, Louisiana, and Tennessee. The total length of the trail is over 115 miles, so it’s best to plan a hike that’s just a portion of the trail. It’s easy to create day hikes on the Bartram Trail because it parallels other popular trails. One great way to access the trail is to utilize the Rabun Bald Trail. This trail is a moderately strenuous hike that measures just under 3 miles. The hike is rewarding though, with 360-degree views of the mountains from a viewing platform at the trail’s end.
Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest
When you’re in the North Georgia Mountains, you should make time to visit the Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest. Not only is it one of the best outdoorsy things to do in Clayton, GA, it’s a must-see if you’re anywhere in North Georgia. The forest measures almost 867,000 acres and covers 26 counties. The lush wooded areas and flowing waters of the forest attract visitors far and wide to enjoy the natural beauty of the area. Because of the vast size of the forest, you will find a large variety of recreational opportunities. There are 850 miles of trails suitable for hiking, biking, and riding. There are also thousands of miles of streams and rivers running through the forest, creating the perfect environment for fishing, kayaking, canoeing, boating and swimming. Other popular activities in the park include nature viewing, picnicking, and scenic driving.
Whitewater Rafting
One of the most fun things to do in Clayton, GA is hit the Chattooga River for some rafting. Southeastern Expeditions is a wonderful rafting outfitter located in Clayton. Their expert guides will take you on an exciting adventure down the river and through a variety of rapids. Choose from two trips: Wild and Wilder. Wild is a six-hour trip that ends with a large class IV rapid called Bull’s Sluice. Wilder is a seven-hour trip containing some of the wildest rapids east of the Mississippi. The finale of this trip is the trip down Five Falls and Soc-em-Dog rapids.
