Cancel

    Open app

    Search

    Mount Yonah Trailhead

    4.7 (37 reviews)

    Mount Yonah Trailhead Photos

    Recommended Reviews - Mount Yonah Trailhead

    Your trust is our priority, so businesses can't pay to alter or remove their reviews. Learn more about reviews.
    Yelp app icon
    Browse more easily on the app
    Review Feed Illustration

    Reviews With Photos

    edited pink
    Azka I.

    ------THE TRAIL ------ This hike is not for the young, the old and the weak. It starts off tough going uphill and your legs will beg you to turn back around to the safety of your car. I saw little kids on the hike and I don't know if they are just more fit than I will ever be or if their superhuman parents somehow carried them up. The trail does get easier after the beginning but some parts are incredibly steep. Most everyone else had huge hiking backpacks (like they were about to summit Everest) and I don't think those are necessary because while it's a tough hike, it's not only for advanced hikers. The average Joe could complete the hike but there will be some parts that are challenging. The views are amazing. You can see the parking lot from the summit and if you have good eyesight, even spot your car. Please don't stand near the edge or try to go onto that rock that juts out for a picture. The fall is dangerous and people have died. The summit also had some icy parts near the edges. The way down is easy because it is all downhill but forget about social distancing because some parts are narrow and you will be in close contact with others. I left the summit at 11 am and lots of people were coming up at that time. The entire hike was 4.5 miles and took 2 hours and 30 min with rests on random rocks in between. ------LOCATION/PARKING------ If you put "Yonah Mountain" into your GPS, you will end up in front of a private road with a sign that says "Hikers do not enter". Put "Yonah Mountain Trailhead". The parking lot is just dirt and gravel so when you turn in and it looks like you are about to drive into the woods into the middle of nowhere, just keep driving and you will find the other cars at the end near the questionable looking restrooms. Please don't bring your nice car. Bring a car that you are fine with driving over rocks and into mini potholes. The lot only had about 10 other cars at 9 am but when I left at 12 pm, it was full and people had to park far away from the trailhead. -----TIPS------ - Wear hiking boots (not sneakers because those have no traction) unless you are looking for a mud bath because you will slip and fall into the mud on your way down -Bring water (more than you think you need) - You can fake a picture at the edge if you sit on the ones that jut out but have other ledges right under - Wear multiple layers (it gets colder as you go up)

    anar m.

    *Open during COVID19/ Parking available too This is a tough trail! Maybe we'll get further up next time. Make sure to bring plenty of water and snacks and download the AllTrails App before climbing up.

    Mount Yonah another peak hiked and many more to go
    Georgia B.

    Popular undeveloped trail with awesome views! We hiked Mount Yonah Trail on a partly sunny Labor Day Monday. We arrived about 11:15am. This is a difficult rated trail, about 4.5 miles round trip and 1500ft+ elevation gain. This trail has sparse neon green cut out blazes nailed to trees. Hiking, rock climbing, limited camping and dogs on leash. No trash bins - Pack OUT please! *Not for people with fear of heights and knees and ankle sensitivity. * ++ Undeveloped trail! No pavements. Decent rocky trail (if you like rocks and boulders). The trail itself is rocky but more so on the 2nd mile up. It's canopied with a clearing at ~ 1 mile and also at ~ 1.85 mile, the granite cliffs near the summit. - Very popular with everybody and their brother. I expected less people b/c it's rated hard. It felt more like Stone Mountain traffic with many people lacking hiking etiquettes, not picking up after their dogs and themselves. = 2 outhouses at the trail head and another about 2/3 of way up at a US army training camp. It's NOT pleasant so take care prior to arrival. ++ Fantastic views of the valley and nearby peaks from the granite cliffs at 1.85 miles to the right of the trail. This is NOT the summit but most people stop hiking here. - Traffic at the lookout. There were about 30 people here before 1pm. Anchors and bolts on boulders, likely from army training and rock climbers. + There were some rock climbers at the bottom of a steep cliff (less than 1 pitch, looked to be ~5.6 to 5.9). ++ Grassy open tree ringed Summit with few (fcfc) campsites / fire pits. There were only 7 people here! Slightly below the summit was another boulder cliff where we were above some birds soaring thermals. = Parking is free but tight. Very rough gravel hill to the lot. There were at least 50 cars when we arrived and saw additional 30-40 parked along the tight dirt road on our way out. Overall, I found this continuous ascent trail to be moderate and one of the best in Georgia. The negatives were waaaay too many people. The positives were several rock scrambles close to the summit and reward vistas at 1.85 mile and just below the summit. Maybe an earlier AM hike on a non-holiday next time for less traffic!

    Eric T.

    Definitely not the easiest trek, but if you're up for a little adventure and challenge this is the place you want to hike. Getting there depending where you are located may or may not be a drive it really depends on the part of the state you are from. Also you will get to a side dirt road, that's the actual entrance to the parking lot of the trail. It looks sketchy but that's the correct route to take. Avoid if it just rained, it's possible for your car to get stuck in the mud there. Once you are on the actual mountain trail and beginning your hike, be prepared ahead of time. Bring good hiking shoes. You will be going through some tough terrain and you could easily roll an ankle if not careful. Stay hydrated, bring a decent amount of water for the journey up and down. The entire hike is probably close to 2-3 hours depending how well you pace yourself. The trail is marked out but color tags on trees only for a portion of the trail the rest you just have to pay attention to how the ground is laid out. Stick to the trail, do not wander off, people have died doing that here. Most of the trail you are surrounded by trees and at times it can be really steep or narrow. There are some really great sites to see on the mountain, bring a camera! Overall, it sounds hard but it's really fun and it will test you but in a good way. I recommend this for anyone who wants to try it. Nature lovers will love this place. It's just you and mother nature out there!

    View near the top. Photo doesn't quite do it justice.
    Thai N.

    Length: 4.4 Miles Difficulty: Moderate to moderately difficult. You're hiking up a mountain. It can be steep at times and the trail is very rocky, you won't find any pavement here. The trail itself is 90% shaded on the way to the top so this hike is pretty manageable during the hottest days of summer. Dog Friendly: Yes. A couple of large rocks that your dog will have to climb or hop over. Some parts are pretty rocky and rough on paws. Sights: Fairly pedestrian on the way up but there are a couple lookout points after the halfway mark. The views at the top are phenomenal, you get a very expansive view of the rolling landscape. It's worth the hike. FYI: Drive slow on the path to the trailhead. Very rough and contains large dips - you'll bottom out if your car is low. Summary: Not quite a favorite but it's one of the closer trails to Atlanta, only 1.5 hours away. A good hike if you're looking to get a workout and rewarding view at the end.

    From the top !
    Kathy S.

    It was a challenge but well worth it! Lots of rocks and some slippery mud along the way! Great work out for sure. Took us 1 1/2 hours to reach the top and 45 min to come back down.

    Very old picture, but it is a fraction of the view from the top.

    This is one of my favorite local hikes. Anyone can do it WITH THE RIGHT MINDSET. You have to remember you are going straight up a mountain. It isn't exactly beginners; that's why I said with the right mindset anyone can do it. If it is 20 degrees, you are going to still be breaking a sweat. The top is breathtaking, and definitely worth it. I recommend it to anyone that is willing to put in the work for it.

    Amazing lookout points. Short hike but the incline is great so take a lot of snacks!
    Sirajuddin P.

    Amazing hike and worth every step of the way! Take a lot of snacks and wear anti slip shoes.

    Top of Mount Yonah from a DJI Mavic Air - taken by drone pilot Marvin Rosario
    Marvin R.

    I've been going to this mountain or the last 10 years and it doesn't get much easier. The view, however, seems to be nicer every time I've gone. If you haven't already, you have to check out this trail in Cleveland, GA.

    The view from the top of Mt. Yonah

    Let me start off by saying it was a challenging hike, but well worth it. My friend told me I had to input coordinates to find the trail (34.637383, -83.725117) otherwise you can end up at any point around the mountain. The length of the hike (to and from) is about 4-5 miles. I am a beginner hiker and in average shape. I had to take breaks often throughout the hike, so with breaks the hike in total took about 2 hours. The trail can get very narrow and steep. There are lots of rocks and tree branches sticking out of the ground, so be careful as it is easy to trip. Be sure to wear proper shoes as the path can get slippery and bring plenty of water! It's important to note that the dirt path leading up to the trail site was rough! I recommend taking a four wheel drive if you can. Besides that the views were great especially when you get to the top.

    Mountains view
    Filip M.

    Awesome trail. Might be too steep for beginners. Nice views. Only 10 mins drive from Helen.

    See all

    3 years ago

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 0
    Love this 2
    Oh no 0

    6 years ago

    Helpful 3
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Uma P.
    123
    890
    2131

    3 years ago

    Helpful 5
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    5 years ago

    Helpful 5
    Thanks 0
    Love this 3
    Oh no 0

    5 years ago

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    6 years ago

    Helpful 3
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    3 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    3 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    9 years ago

    Helpful 9
    Thanks 1
    Love this 9
    Oh no 0

    5 years ago

    Helpful 9
    Thanks 0
    Love this 9
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Tae Kyung Y.
    99
    819
    1407

    4 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Eric T.
    269
    435
    5654

    10 years ago

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 0
    Love this 3
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Thai N.
    19
    31
    29

    7 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 2
    Oh no 0

    5 years ago

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    3 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    5 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Amanda M.
    19
    26
    99

    5 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    6 years ago

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    6 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    6 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    5 years ago

    Helpful 3
    Thanks 0
    Love this 2
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Jess L.
    75
    48
    43

    7 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    5 years ago

    This sunset was amazing fun hike do not recommend hiking down at night also bring portable chargers.

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    8 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of O J.
    0
    45
    9

    6 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Clark N.
    23
    131
    89

    16 years ago

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    12 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    5 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Jim K.
    0
    35
    16

    11 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    11 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    9 years ago

    Beautiful, wonderful hike near Helen, Georgia. It's definitely worth a day trip if you have the time.

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 2
    Oh no 0
    Photo of S H.
    169
    259
    2438

    9 years ago

    Helpful 3
    Thanks 0
    Love this 2
    Oh no 0

    13 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    12 years ago

    We love hiking Mt. Yonah. We hike it at least times a year. One of our favorite hiking spots.

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Sara M.
    56
    12
    0

    9 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    10 years ago

    So much fun on this trail. I would rate it moderate. Lots of foot traffic. Amazing view

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Nic S.
    0
    15
    0

    11 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    Ask the Community - Mount Yonah Trailhead

    Review Highlights - Mount Yonah Trailhead

    ------LOCATION/PARKING------ If you put "Yonah Mountain" into your GPS, you will end up in front of a private road with a sign that says "Hikers do not enter".

    Mentioned in 2 reviews

    Read more highlights

    Verify this business for free

    People searched for Hiking 454 times last month within 15 miles of this business.

    Verify this business

    Edge of the World

    Edge of the World

    4.6(14 reviews)
    31.0 mi

    Edge of the World is a great nearby walking trail that winds along Amicalola Creek. The trail is…read moremostly easy, with a mix of wooden walkways (watch out for a few holes) and dirt paths. There are also a few side trails that climb up the mountain if you're looking for a bit more of a challenge (including dodging Joro spiders!). The small waterfalls are beautiful, and the cool creek water is perfect for dipping your feet in on a warm day.

    Loved the Edge of the World! All I could think in my head was the song, it's the end of the world…read moreas we know it, & I feel fine. The Edge of the World is a landscape we never see. It was semi difficult hike just because we live in Florida and use to live in Illinois (AKA Flatland), but we did it. The easiest way to this is from the parking lot, walk to the left and walk down the stairs. Keep walking on the boardwalk and watch for holes in the boardwalk. When the boardwalk is done, keep walking and then you will come to trees, the trees have steps made from the trees, & carefully watch your step and go down. I actually scooted my butt down and then climbed the tree steps. It was not bad, just something I'm not accustomed to. You will see the water and rocks moving and it is just so beautiful. People walk through and sit in the water and take pics. Be careful when you walk through it can be slippery. We had water shoes. Water is so refreshing. We actually walked the long way, which is walking to the right of the parking lot to the start of the boardwalk. We didn't want to walk down the stairs bc they looked pretty steep. It really is amazing. I'd say you will be here about an hour or two. Parking is free and there are a bunch of signs you need a fishing license. Which we don't have. We just parked And walked!

    Photos
    Edge of the World
    Edge of the World
    Edge of the World

    See all

    Angel Falls & Panther Falls - Panther Falls | Instagram: @telephonesmoothie

    Angel Falls & Panther Falls

    4.6(11 reviews)
    17.2 mi

    This is a beautiful trail that leads to two stunning waterfalls. The trail can be challenging in…read moresome areas due to rocky terrain and roots on the path. However, overall it's a pleasant trail with several creek crossings and rhododendron tunnels. The first falls, Panther Falls, is a sight to behold and you can even walk in the pool at the base of the falls. As you proceed from Panther Falls, the trail becomes harder as you go up the side of the falls, and there are handrails due to steep drop-offs. The trail is an in and out and takes you through lush rhododendron forests, alongside a scenic Creek. The effort is well worth it, though, as the falls themselves are magnificent, with cascading waters that make for an incredible photo opportunity. Angel Falls at the end of the trail can be harder to see due to plants growing over it partially. The Angel Fall Trailhead is located in Loop 2, area 2 of the Rabun Beach Campground. This is mostly an easy trail with a couple of short, steep runs. The payoff is reaching the observation deck where you can enjoy Angel Falls. Here you will see dogs on leash, kid-friendly, forests, rivers, and hiking. Great, short, easy "Moderate" hike. Parking is enough for a few cars only, but nearby there is a campground with a lot of parking. The hike itself is pretty easy. The peaceful surroundings and the sound of rushing water create a serene atmosphere, making it a must-visit for nature enthusiasts.

    Angel Falls was tough to find with Google providing the wrong location, but the trailhead is off…read moreRabun Rd. about 4 miles down from where Google says it is! Happy we continued the beautiful drive around the lake to find it. The parking area is small, but we also were the only car there for our visit. It's a short, easy walk (just watch out for the roots!) to the falls, but it was a little more advanced after the bridge at the falls. We had lots of rain so the mud was slippery. Must-do hike if you're near!

    Photos
    Angel Falls & Panther Falls - Angel Falls | Instagram: @telephonesmoothie

    Angel Falls | Instagram: @telephonesmoothie

    Angel Falls & Panther Falls - Panther Falls | Instagram: @telephonesmoothie

    Panther Falls | Instagram: @telephonesmoothie

    Angel Falls & Panther Falls - Instagram: @telephonesmoothie

    See all

    Instagram: @telephonesmoothie

    Fall Creek Falls Trailhead

    Fall Creek Falls Trailhead

    4.3(3 reviews)
    30.2 mi

    We drove to Fall Creek Falls today and hiked from the nature center through the trailhead all the…read moreway to the actual falls. We saw about 3 scenic spots to take pictures and along the trail they had signs for other trails(which weren't that much of a detour). At the end of the trail to get to the twin falls it was breathing, well worth the hike but it was very strenuous.

    You will totally miss this hidden gem if you are not paying close attention…read more The trailhead is located along Fall Creek Falls dirt road, but there are no signs indicating the trailhead nor is there an adequate pull-off for cars. Since we saw no indication for a trail, I just parked in the best spot possible as I listened for the falls with my car windows down. Turns out when I got out of the car and walked over to the edge of the road, there was a STEEP trail barely visible through the vegetation. The trail leads straight down to the creek, where you will encounter the upper part of the falls. Look to your right and continue downhill to the base of the upper falls, which is about 25-30 feet tall. This was as far as I explored and I was bummed to find out after getting home that there were TWO more waterfalls just a short distance below what I thought was the main falls. The second one is 35 feet tall, multilayered and quite spectacular based on the online pictures I found. The third is shorter, but still attractive. So if you come here, please note the distance to the falls is VERY short, but it is also VERY STEEP and semi-difficult, especially on the return. Enjoy! 2019/77

    Photos
    Fall Creek Falls Trailhead
    Fall Creek Falls Trailhead
    Fall Creek Falls Trailhead

    See all

    Mount Yonah Trailhead - hiking - Updated May 2026

    Loading...
    Loading...
    Loading...