Bartram Trail
Lenght:
37.7 miles
Estimated Time:
3-5 Days
(287 reviews)
Type:
Point-to-point trail
Difficulty:
Hard
Elevation:
7,903 ft total elevation gain
GPS Coordinates:
34.8765° N, 83.7234° W (Russell Bridge)
Emergency Contact:
(706) 754-6221
Address:
None Given
Hours:
None Given
67°F
Allowed Activates
- Hiking
- Backpacking
- Trail Running
- Photography
- Birdwatching
- Dog Walking (on leash)
- Camping (designated areas)
- Waterfall
Trail Sections
Russell Bridge to Warwoman Dell
Distance: 18.8 miles
Difficulty: Moderate to Hard
Highlights: Chattooga River, Dicks Creek Falls, Rainy Mountain
Russell Bridge to Warwoman Dell
Distance: 18.8 miles
Difficulty: Moderate to Hard
Highlights: Chattooga River, Dicks Creek Falls, Rainy Mountain
Russell Bridge to Warwoman Dell
Distance: 18.8 miles
Difficulty: Moderate to Hard
Highlights: Chattooga River, Dicks Creek Falls, Rainy Mountain
Amenities & Logistics
PARKING
- Russell Bridge (Southern Terminus): Free parking on north side of Highway 28
- Warwoman Dell: Free parking at recreation area (two lots available)
- Rabun Bald Access: Limited parking at Hale Ridge Road trailhead
- Northern Terminus: Roadside parking at Georgia-NC border
RESTROOMS & FACILITIES
- Russell Bridge: No facilities
- Warwoman Dell: Restrooms temporarily unavailable (check current status)
- Along Trail: No facilities – wilderness setting
- Nearest Towns: Clayton (18 miles from Russell Bridge), Highlands, NC
KID FRIENDLY
- Full Trail: Not suitable for young children due to length and remoteness
- Warwoman Dell Area: Excellent for families with short waterfall trails
- Rabun Bald Day Hike: Suitable for teenagers and fit older children
- Educational Value: William Bartram history, botanical diversity, CCC heritage
PICNIC AREAS
- Warwoman Dell: Two CCC-built picnic shelters, multiple tables
- Russell Bridge: Primitive area only
- Along Trail: No designated picnic facilities
FEES
- No entrance fees anywhere along trail
- Free parking at all access points
- Forest Service land – no permits required for day hiking
- Backcountry camping allowed with Leave No Trace practices
SHUTTLE SERVICES
Multiple local outfitters provide shuttle services for point-to-point hiking. Recommended to arrange in advance, especially during peak seasons.
RESUPPLY OPTIONS
- Warwoman Dell: Only on-trail resupply point
- Clayton, GA: Full services 18 miles east of Russell Bridge
- Highlands, NC: Services near northern terminus
- Pre-arranged caches: Possible at Warwoman Dell with coordination
Trail Overview
Following the footsteps of 18th-century naturalist William Bartram, this National Recreation Trail explores some of Georgia’s most pristine wilderness. Stretching 37.7 miles from Russell Bridge on the Chattooga River to the North Carolina border, the trail offers both outstanding day hikes and a fantastic multi-day backpacking adventure through the Chattahoochee National Forest.
William Bartram traveled this area in 1775, gathering and documenting botanical specimens from these extremely biodiverse forests. According to historical records, he documented well over a hundred new species of flora and fauna, making this trail both a wilderness adventure and a journey through natural history.
The trail begins at the Wild and Scenic Chattooga River, following its banks through pristine forest before ascending into the Blue Ridge Mountains. The route passes through diverse ecosystems, from riverside hardwood forests to high-elevation heath zones, offering hikers a comprehensive sample of Southern Appalachian biodiversity.
Major highlights include the spectacular 360-degree views from Rabun Bald’s observation tower, the cascading beauty of multiple waterfalls, and the historic significance of Warwoman Dell. The trail offers numerous excellent campsites with seasonal water sources, making it ideal for both section hiking and full trail backpacking adventures.
Key Highlights:
- Rabun Bald (Georgia’s 2nd highest peak)
- Martin Creek Falls and Becky Branch Falls
- Wild and Scenic Chattooga River
- Pinnacle Knob side trail
- Historic Warwoman Dell
- Diverse botanical specimens
Gear Up for Your Next Adventure
Every trail has its challenges. Make sure you’re prepared with gear that goes the distance.
Activity-Specific Information
For Hikers: Well-marked with yellow rectangular blazes throughout. Allow 3-5 days for full trail or choose individual sections for day hikes. Most popular day hikes include Warwoman Dell waterfalls and Rabun Bald summit.
For Backpackers: Excellent multi-day adventure with numerous primitive campsites. Water sources generally reliable but carry purification. Bear precautions recommended. Leave No Trace principles essential.
For Trail Runners: Challenging terrain suitable for experienced runners. Rabun Bald section particularly strenuous. Carry adequate hydration as water sources may be seasonal.
For Nature Enthusiasts: Exceptional botanical diversity following Bartram’s historic route. Spring wildflowers outstanding. Bird watching excellent throughout. Educational opportunities about 18th-century natural history.
For Photographers: Martin Creek Falls and Becky Branch Falls offer spectacular waterfall photography. Rabun Bald observation tower provides panoramic mountain vistas. Chattooga River access for water photography.
Water Access Information
RIVER ACCESS
- Chattooga Wild and Scenic River (Russell Bridge to Earl’s Ford)
- Multiple tributary streams throughout
- Historic Sandy Ford crossing
WATERFALL ACCESS
- Dicks Creek Falls (0.5-mile side trail)
- Becky Branch Falls (roadside access)
- Martin Creek Falls (on main trail)
SAFETY NOTES
- River currents can be deceptively strong
- Water levels change rapidly with weather
- All stream water requires purification
- Seasonal sources may be dry – plan accordingly
Safety & Preparation
Conditions: Trail generally in good condition with yellow blazing. River access requires careful navigation. Some overgrown sections in summer.
Recommended Gear: Sturdy hiking boots, insect repellent, water purification, camera, rain gear, river shoes for crossings.
What to Bring:
- 3+ liters of water plus purification
- Full day’s food supply
- First aid kit
- Navigation tools
- Insect protection
- River crossing footwear
Hazards/Warnings:
- Multiple creek crossings
- Potential tick exposure
- River currents can be strong
- Remote wilderness sections
- Weather changes affect river levels
Weather Considerations: Summer brings heavy vegetation and significant insect activity. Spring offers best water flow but challenging crossings. River levels rise quickly after rain.
