Byron Herbert Reece Trail

Area Status: Open

This blue-blazed trail begins in the Byron Herbert Reece Memorial parking area north of Neels Gap on US 19/129. The trail climbs 400 feet from the parking/picnic area to a 3-way intersection just south of Flat Rock Gap.  From this intersection, hikers can access the Appalachian National Scenic Trail and continue 1.5 miles to the top of Blood Mountain, which offers spectacular views from its rock faces.  Please note that the Byron Herbert Reece Trail is almost completely within the Blood Mountain Wilderness. Visitors should expect few structures, signs or blazes along the trail.

At a Glance

Area Amenities: Parking: The Byron Herbert Reece Memorial Trailhead has 24 paved parking spaces, including 1 accessible parking space and 14 gravel parallel parking spaces. A maximum of 38 vehicles can park in this area. This area cannot accomodate vehicles over 20 feet in length.
Fees: Free
Open Season: Year-round
Restrictions:
  • No vehicles over 20' in length
  • Parking in designated spaces, only 
Closest Towns:
  • Blairsville, GA
  • Dahlonega, GA
  • Cleveland, GA 
Water: None
Restroom: None
Information Center: Additional information can be obtained by contacting the         
Blue Ridge Ranger District
2042 Highway 515 West
Blairsville, GA 30512
706-745-6928

General Information

Directions:

Interactive Visitor Map

From Blairsville, GA take US 19/129 south 13.0 miles to parking area on right.

From Turners Corner, where US 19 joins US 129, continue north on US 19/129 for approximately 8.3 miles.  Turn left into the trailhead, just beyond the Walasi-Yi Center.


Recreation Map

Map showing recreational areas. Map Information

Activities

Day Hiking

For those looking to day hike, take the Byron Herbert Reece Trail (0.7 mi) to the Appalachian Trail.  Go right and follow the AT for 1.5 miles to the top of Blood Mountain.  After enjoying the views, follow the same route back to the trailhead.  Total distance is approximately 4.4 miles.  Note that the Byron Herbert Reece Trail is marked with blue rectangular blazes and the AT is marked with white rectangular blazes. 

Backpacking

Those looking to backpack along the Appalachian National Scenic Trail should obtain detailed trail information, including maps, hiking tips and water information, prior to arriving to the trailhead.  The Georgia Appalachian Trail Club offers such essential AT trail information at www.georgia-atclub.org/.