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Bartram Trail

William Bartram, the distinguished explorer, naturalist and writer who embarked on a four-year journey traveling through eight southern colonies in 1773, not only discovered new and unique native fauna and wildlife for our region, but recorded them in stunning sketches and drawings.  His ornithological drawings and writings reflected the lush and intriguing landscape of the Southeast which to this day has yet to be surpassed.  Deep in the forest of the Chattooga River District the William Bartram National Recreation Trail  follows the path Mr. Bartram traversed in Georgia, and offers visitors of all ages a chance to experience and see the wilderness as this naturalist once did.

Reservations

No reservations are needed for the trail.

General Information

No fee at the parking areas to access the trail in Georgia.

USDA Forest Service Logo

Address: 9975 Highway 441S Lakemont, GA 30552
Phone: 706-754-6221
Hours: Office hours are Monday through Friday 8:00 to noon and 1:00 to 4:30. (Closed on federal holidays)
Office Email: SM.FS.CRRD@usda.gov

Getting There

Parking

No fee parking is available

Facility and Amenity Information

Accessibility

Water

Potable water is not available at this site.

Picnic Tables

Picnic tables are not available at this site.

Recreation Opportunities

Backpacking Info

The Bartram Trail in Georgia links up with several other sections of the trail in multiple states.  So whether you want to attempt to cover the entire 36.3 mile portion in the Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest, or connect up with one of the other sections, opportunities are many for backpackers.

The Chattooga River Trail, which shares a portion of the Bartram Trail, and borders North Carolina, Georgia and South Carolina following the Wild and Scenic Chattooga River, offers 37.5 miles of easy to moderate level hiking.  This trail can be accessed from Burrells Ford Rd. on the Chattooga-River Ranger District.

Hiking Info

The Bartram Trail in Georgia links up with several other sections of the trail in multiple states.  So whether you want to attempt to cover the entire 36.3 mile portion in the Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest, or connect up with one of the other sections, opportunities are many for backpackers.

The Chattooga River Trail, which shares a portion of the Bartram Trail, and borders North Carolina, Georgia and South Carolina following the Wild and Scenic Chattooga River, offers 37.5 miles of easy to moderate level hiking.  This trail can be accessed from Burrells Ford Rd. on the Chattooga-River Ranger District.

Day Hikes Info

The Bartram Trail in Georgia links up with several other sections of the trail in multiple states.  So whether you want to attempt to cover the entire 36.3 mile portion in the Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest, or connect up with one of the other sections, opportunities are many for backpackers.

The Chattooga River Trail, which shares a portion of the Bartram Trail, and borders North Carolina, Georgia and South Carolina following the Wild and Scenic Chattooga River, offers 37.5 miles of easy to moderate level hiking.  This trail can be accessed from Burrells Ford Rd. on the Chattooga-River Ranger District.

Last updated May 1st, 2025