Bartram Trail - Rabun Bald to Warwoman Dell
Lenght:
13.5 miles
Estimated Time:
6-8 Hours
(412 reviews)
Type:
Point-to-point trail
Difficulty:
Hard
Elevation:
2,176 ft elevation loss
Hours:
Dawn to dusk, year-round
Emergency Contact:
(706) 754-6221
Address:
None Given
GPS Coordinates:
34.9234° N, 83.6543° W
Allowed Activates
- Hiking
- Trail Running
- Photography
- Birdwatching
- Dog Walking (on leash)
- Backpacking
- Camping (multiple sites)
- Waterfall
Amenities & Logistics
PARKING
- Free parking at Rabun Bald (via Beegum Gap)
- Free parking at Warwoman Dell Recreation Area
- Two parking areas at Warwoman Dell (upper and lower)
RESTROOMS & FACILITIES
- No restrooms at Rabun Bald trailhead
- Restrooms temporarily unavailable at Warwoman Dell (check current status)
- Water fountain located halfway through Warwoman Dell area
- Picnic pavilions and shelters at Warwoman Dell
KID FRIENDLY
- Long distance challenging for most children
- Warwoman Dell area very family-friendly with easy trails
- Multiple waterfalls appeal to kids
- Educational CCC history and interpretive signs
- Short nature trail options for families
PICNIC AREAS
- Two CCC-built picnic shelters at Warwoman Dell
- Multiple picnic tables throughout recreation area
- Large pavilion with tables, fireplace, and grills
- Small covered picnic area with stone fireplace
FEES
- No entrance fees
- Free parking at all locations
Trail Overview
Descending from Georgia’s second-highest peak, this spectacular section of the Bartram Trail winds southwest for thirteen miles through some of the state’s most diverse and beautiful terrain. The route offers an incredible combination of mountain vistas, cascading waterfalls, and rich historical significance.
Beginning at Rabun Bald’s 4,696-foot summit, the trail descends steadily through changing forest ecosystems. The first miles pass through the mountain’s distinctive heath zone before entering dense hardwood forests filled with rhododendron and mountain laurel. The moderate descent offers excellent recovery after the summit climb.
The trail reaches Courthouse Gap at just over 10 miles, passing an intersection with the green-blazed Pinnacle Knob Trail. The side trip to Pinnacle Knob (less than two miles round-trip) offers outstanding 180-degree views and is highly recommended for hikers with extra energy.
The final miles leading to Warwoman Dell showcase the trail’s most impressive water features. The route passes through Martin Creek’s slot canyon and spectacular double-tiered waterfall before reaching the historic Becky Branch Falls just minutes from the road crossing.
Key Highlights:
- Becky Branch Falls
- Martin Creek Falls (double-tiered)
- Pinnacle Knob side trail
- Multiple backcountry campsites
- Warwoman Dell Recreation Area
- Historic significance
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: Long descent requires good knee conditioning. Multiple water features provide photo opportunities and rest stops. Allow full day for completion.
For Backpackers: Excellent campsites throughout, many near water sources. Martin Creek Falls camping particularly scenic. Multiple resupply options at Warwoman Dell.
For Photographers: Martin Creek Falls offers double-tiered cascades. Becky Branch Falls easily accessible. Golden hour lighting in hardwood forest exceptional.
For Nature Enthusiasts: Exceptional biodiversity along elevation gradient. Spring wildflowers outstanding. Stream ecosystems support diverse wildlife.
Safety & Preparation
Current Conditions: Excellent trail conditions with clear yellow blazing. Multiple water features and camping opportunities. Some technical sections require careful attention.
Recommended Gear: Hiking boots, ample water capacity, camera, trekking poles for steep sections, layers for elevation changes.
What to Bring:
- 3+ liters of water per person
- Trail snacks and lunch
- First aid kit
- Navigation tools
- Camera for waterfalls
- Insect repellent
Hazards/Warnings:
- Long sustained descents stress knees
- Multiple stream crossings
- Slippery rocks near waterfalls
- Potential for afternoon thunderstorms
- Technical rocky sections
Weather Considerations: Trail descent means warming temperatures throughout hike. Stream crossings can be challenging during high water. Summer brings heavy vegetation and insect activity.
