The Georgia Overland Blog - GEORGIA OVERLAND

The Georgia Traverse Status - Reported Conditions

2/1/2018

Last Updated: 1/2019

To this great group of explorers and travelers, please consider sharing your recent Georgia Traverse experiences with the community. If you have relevant information regarding road conditions, closures, trees down, difficult terrain, etc. along The Georgia Traverse, please leave a comment below. Users will be able to visit the comment section and get a sense of what to expect as the road conditions along the Traverse change quite frequently. Note: Click Comments and scroll to the bottom for the latest updates.

You can now report trail conditions directly on The Georgia Traverse map using the The Georgia Traverse Trail Conditions Reporting Form

In addition to any comments provided by users, you should always (I cannot stress this enough) check the Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forests Alerts and Notices Page before you visit the area.

Safe travels, David.

Conasauga Ranger District Seasonal Closures Dates: Through March 4, 2019
Seasonal road closures are now in effect on the Conasauga Ranger District. On the east side of the district, Forest Service Road (FSR) 64 is closed from Jacks River Field Campground to Potato Patch. FSR 68 from Potato Patch to Lake Conasauga, FSR 49 from Lake Conasauga to Grassy Tower and FSR 17 from the intersection of FSR 68 to FSR 630 are all closed. Also, there is no vehicle access to the following trailheads: Three Forks, Chestnut Lead, Tear Britches, Buddy Cove and Betty Gap. On the west side of the district, Johns Mountain Overlook Road (FSR 208) is closed. These roads will re-open March 4, 2019.
As always, forest visitors should use caution when travelling within the national forest, as weather conditions may present flooding, downed trees, road wash-outs, and landslides. Please check local weather forecasts and the Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forests' website for the most current news and updates.
You can also download free maps of the Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forests' road system.
Contact: Conasauga Ranger District, (706) 695-6736
The full announcement is found here.

Camping Closure for area around Rainbow Family gathering, Lumpkin County     Dates: June 15, 2018 through September 2, 2018
The Forest Service has issued a camping closure order for the area surrounding the Rainbow Family gathering that took place July 2018.
Updates and Information found here.
Map of camping closure found here.

Tallulah River Campground Closed     Dates: Mid-May through August, 2018
Contacts: Chattoga River Ranger District (706) 754-6221
The Tallulah River Campground was closed Mid-May for the installation of a new toilet facility.
Updates and Information found here.

Cohutta Wilderness Closed Temporarily - Cottonwood Patch Campground Reopened     Dates: July 23, 2018
Updates and Information found here.

High Shoals Creek Falls Trail Closed     Dates: July 13, 2018
Updates and Information found here.

Rainbow Gathering Information for the Chattahoochee National Forest     Dates: Mid-June through Mid-July 2018
Updates and information found here:  www.fs.usda.gov/goto/conf/RainbowFamily
"The Rainbow Family of Living Light has chosen to hold their 2018 Annual Rainbow Gathering on the Chattahoochee National Forest on the Blue Ridge Ranger District. The unauthorized gathering site is located near Bull Mountain off of Forest Service Road 28-1 in the community of Nimblewill about 15 minutes from Dahlonega, Georgia. The unauthorized gathering could draw anywhere from 2,000 -- 10,000 people. Officials expect the attendance to peak the week of July 4. Any event of this size can have significant impacts on local communities, natural resources, traffic, and visitors. Please continue to visit this site for regular updates. "

IMPASSABLE ROADS - Blue Ridge Ranger District     Date(s): Feb 8, 2018
Contact(s): Blue Ridge Ranger District at (706)745-6928
Forest Service roads continue to be impacted by wet weather and the freezing and thawing cycles. Sections of Forest Service Roads 42, 77, 69, 58 and others in the area are impassable by passenger cars and 2-wheel drive vehicles. Use caution when traveling these roads.

Conasauga Ranger District Seasonal Road Closures Date(s): Feb 5, 2018 - Mar 7, 2018
Contact(s): Jeff Gardner, District Ranger, (706) 695-6736
Seasonal road closures are now in effect on the Conasauga Ranger District. On the east side of the district, Forest Service Road (FSR) 64 is closed from Jacks River Field Campground to Potato Patch. FSR 68 from Potato Patch to Lake Conasauga, FSR 49 from Lake Conasauga to Grassy Tower and FSR 17 from the intersection of FSR 68 to FSR 630 are all closed. Also, there is no vehicle access to the following trailheads: Three Forks, Chestnut Lead, Tear Britches, Buddy Cove and Betty Gap. On the west side of the district, Johns Mountain Overlook Road (FSR 208) is closed. These roads will re-open March 6, 2018.
Click image for large map indicating road closures.

106 Comments

Matthew W. Street

10/25/2016 07:22:12 pm

I'm doing the trail (hopefully in its entirety) this weekend. I'll report back.

Matthew Street

10/26/2016 09:27:21 am

^^ UPDATE. I'll be attempting it on a KLR650. Planning on camping along the way. Starting midday on Friday morning (it'll take 3 hours to get to the eastern-most terminus), and finishing on Monday early afternoon near Cedar Bluff, Al. I've been backpacking 20+ years, but this will be my first multi-day motorcycle camping trip. I'm trying a couple different GPS options along the way (Gaia GPS app and Map My Tracks Pro app). I'll post either a summary at the end, or some along the way if battery and signal permit.

Paul0580

1/2/2018 10:25:08 am

Does anyone know if Matthew ever got this trip in? Enduro camping sounds like a good time.

David link

10/27/2016 02:17:42 pm

I'm looking forward to hearing about the trip. Thanks for sharing and safe travels, Matthew.
-David

Jeff

11/2/2016 07:30:32 pm

I am interested, too, to hear what the conditions, closures, etc. are like for this route. We are considering traveling this route next weekend. Thanks.

Jeff

11/2/2016 07:30:54 pm

11/5/2016 06:14:54 pm

Pay close attention to trail closures, particularly in the Cohuttas as they are fighting fires in the area:
http://www.fs.usda.gov/recmain/conf/recreation

Scott ledingham

11/25/2016 02:25:21 am

Looking to ride this in its entirety in spring

11/25/2016 10:55:43 am

Hi Scott,
Let us know how the ride goes this spring!
Safe travels,
David

2/21/2018 10:25:01 am

Ahoy Scott!
I just came across this site and associated tracks. I'm hoping to ride some segments soon. If you ride it sooner than me, looking forward to reading about your traverse.

2/21/2018 10:26:23 am

DOH! Might help if I read the dates of these posts. :|

Jeff C.

1/2/2017 10:42:20 am

I just did the majority of the traverse from 27-29 DEC 2016. We ran into two blockages/closures which I will detail shortly.

First things first: This is a great route! We had a great time on the trip and got to visit some beautiful areas. My brother and I grew up in Georgia and spent a lot of time in the mountains backpacking and camping, but this route took us to plenty of undiscovered areas we had never been to. I want to thank David for what was obviously a huge amount of effort to scout the route and create the GPS tracks.

Large portions of this route can be done in a two wheel drive vehicle. Traction was rarely a problem even in the rain, but a higher clearance vehicle is necessary to avoid the rocks typical of some of the less maintained forest service roads. Having said that, I strongly advise using a high clearance, four wheel drive vehicle with low range for the section from Dillard to Helen. Do not try this section in a Subaru or RAV4.

Navigating the route is easy using the tracks available on the web site. I followed the instructions on the FAQ page and used Dropbox to import the tracks into the Motion X GPS app on my phone. Using this app with the tracks proved to be very easy and we experienced no problems with staying on the route. I did not do a very good job of preloading the maps onto my phone, so there were plenty of times when we had the track line to follow but no map to look at. Was not a problem at all, but would have been a bonus to have the maps available when cell coverage was gone.

I consider this route to have five sections. The first section is from Burrell's Ford to Dillard. These roads are easy and just about any car could do this part of the route. To get to the beginning of the route we used Waze to point us to the Burrell's Ford Campground, which is essentially the beginning of the route. This route ends outside of Dillard. After completing this section, we headed into Clayton for some lunch. From the track Dillard is just a mile or two and Clayton is about 10 miles.

After lunch we started the second section which is from Dillard to Helen. This portion of the route is the most challenging of the trip and I feel that you should have a high clearance four wheel drive vehicle. We got a late start on the first day so we only finished about half this section before dark. Because of steady rain the whole day we decided not to camp. Instea we came across the Top of Georgia hiker's hostel right along the route at Dick's Creek Gap on US 76. Since it was Christmas time, the hostel was almost completely empty and we had the place almost to ourselves.

The next morning we continued on the route, eventually coming to Trey Mountain road which is where we had our first issue with trail conditions. After climbing this road for over an hour we came to a portion of trail that was washed out and was not passable for my almost stock Tacoma. There was a 50 yard long section that had 2-3 foot deep ruts and ledges. We probably could have spent a couple hours rock stacking and digging to get through, but we decided that it was best to turn around. My Tacoma is my daily driver and I had a nine hour drive back home after the trip, so for us retreat was the best option. It is possible that a heavily modified vehicle could make it through. This section is on the way up Hickory Knob on Trey Mountain road. If you are doing the route I would still do this section because it is a beautiful part of the mountains and because the road may be passable in the future. Worst case you have a great drive up a fun trail and turn around, best case you make it all the way through.

After turning around we headed back down Trey Mountain Road, hit the pavement and headed into Helen for gas and lunch. I recommend the Troll Tavern, which is located right on the river in the middle of town.

After Helen the hard stuff is behind you. This third section goes from Helen to the beginning of the Cohutta loop. This section is pleasant but the roads are rocky and we didn't make very good time. The Cooper's Creek WMA is especially nice and has a very nice campground that would make for a great night if your timing is right. It was only mid afternoon for us so we continued on. Eventually we decided to leave the route in Suches head down into Dahlonega for the night because the forecast called for thunderstorms and winds above 30 mph. I went to college in Dahlonega so I am always looking for an excuse to visit, so it wasn't a hard decision for us. We had some awesome pizza at Gustavo's on the square and called it a night.

We got up the next morning and headed back up to Suches to pick up the trail. It had rained heavily during the nigh so the trails were slippery, but nothing too difficult. By lunchtime we arrrived at the beginning of the Cohutta loop, which is the fourth section.

If you consider the loop to be a clock face we entered the loop at the 3-4 o'clock position off Old GA 2, which is where the GPS tracks

1/2/2017 10:56:49 am

If you consider the loop to be a clock face we entered the loop at the 3-4 o'clock position off Old GA 2, which is where the GPS tracks bring you in. We decided to turn right and go around the loop counter clockwise. The roads in this section are good, but some sections are rough and rocky, making for slow going. It took several hours to get around the loop and we averaged 10-15 mph on this section like we did for the rest of the route. This section is gorgeous and feels very isolated. Through happy coincidence, we wound up on the far west side of the loop just before sunset. There are two overlooks on the west side that provide absolutely jaw dropping views, and seeing these views at sunset made them even better.

At the very end of our trip around the loop we encountered our only locked gate. After 4 hours on the route we came across a random closed gate right at the Jack's River Fields campground. At this point we had completed over 90% of the loop but could not get past the gate to complete the loop without going back around the entire loop clockwise. At this point it was getting dark so we turned around at the gate and exited the loop at the southernmost point of the loop at Cow Pens Rd. Eventually we made it down into Elijay and then made our way back to my brother's place in Athens.

To reiterate, this is a great tip that I highly recommend. The navigation is easy, there is plenty of food and gas along the route and the forests and overlooks are amazing. My favorite section was from Dillard to Helen due to the more challenging 4wd trails in this area. My brothers favorite section was the Cohuttanloop for the isolating and breathtaking views. Whether you have a few hours or a few days, I recommend you load up the GOS tracks and give it a go. You will not be disappointed.

David Giguere link

1/2/2017 05:50:50 pm

Hi Jeff,
Thank you very much for taking the time to write this detailed post and for sharing your experience with the community. The information you provided is invaluable! I'm happy to hear you had an enjoyable and exciting trip!
All the best,
David

Max

1/25/2018 11:33:25 am

Great write up! Thanks for the information. How long did the trip take you?

Sticker link

2/6/2017 05:04:32 pm

Recently found this through a Facebook group. I have to admit this is incredible and just what I've been looking for.

Have a GIS bachelors degree, I can vouche for the incredible amount to of work that went into this. I myself will soon begin assisting where I can with my own data and experiences.

David, killer work. I look forward to running this in the wrangler and adding in my own information.

Best regards,
Sticker

2/8/2017 04:26:21 pm

Sticker,
Thank you very much for the kind words. It really means a lot coming from a GIS professional. Stay in touch and please feel free to share your thoughts and experiences with the community. I will migrate the site from Weebly to WordPress in the coming months as I work toward providing a better platform for users to share information and ideas. Wish me luck!

Joseph Grant link

2/26/2017 02:28:58 pm

We made our first attempt at completing the GA Traverse late last summer / early fall. Had a great time but technical difficulties cut our trip short. My buddy lost a tire on the rocks at Tray Mountain and we didn't have a spare with us...

We will be hitting the traverse again in April. Not looking for a lot of folks to join us but if anyone is interested in the trip, let me know. We have the proper recovery equipment to get you out of a mess if you happen to need the help.

I am really looking forward to our next outing.

David Giguere

6/11/2017 10:08:59 pm

I somehow overlooked replying back in February...apologies for the oversight! Tray Mountain has developed a rugged stretch that is proving challenging to many prepared rigs. Good luck out there!

Anthony

5/8/2017 05:16:21 pm

I can't thank you enough for making this website and putting in such an incredible amount of work to share with others. I am down in Fort Lauderdale, FL, but I want to get some friends together and do a nice trail ride now that we all have the vehicles and means to do so. This will more than likely be our first endeavor.

Thanks again.

5/10/2017 10:54:11 am

Thank you very much for the kind words, Anthony. Keep us posted on your travels!

Zachary Evers

8/1/2017 08:55:56 pm

Im looking to do the traverse trail in my 99 stock 4 runner 4x4 with factory e locker a few days before thanksgiving, are there any recent trail updates? ill be coming from St. Augustine, FL. Thanks in advanced.

8/25/2017 01:41:40 pm

Hi Zach,

Before you make the journey, and while en route, keep an eye on road closures and conditions here:
https://www.facebook.com/ChattOconeeNF/ and https://www.fs.usda.gov/conf
In addition to road closures, you may find a few areas of difficult terrain along The Georgia Traverse. Safe travels and let us know how your trip was!

Jon Lindquist

10/15/2017 09:12:21 pm

Hey man I'm planning on doing this route at the same time you are and I'm coming from port saint lucie. I have a 4runner same as yours. Maybe we will see each other out there. My 4runner is black and I'll be pulling a black trailer that has a truck bed with a topper on it. Good luck

Ryan Gomiela

10/24/2017 05:12:14 pm

I was thinking of doing it at the same time in my 2000 2wd lifted 4runner. I would be coming from Melbourne FL

Jason Koertge link

9/22/2017 05:27:09 pm

Hey everyone! Just released vlog 40 where we tackle Tray Mountain. If you want to see what it looked like as of end of June 2017, check out the vlog!

https://youtu.be/3WaOdtBkqrc

9/24/2017 04:23:36 pm

Thanks for posting, Jason! Your videos are amazing and I really appreciate the (multiple video) Georgia Traverse coverage. I recommend everyone take a look at Jason's Swell Runner Overland Youtube channel here:
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCQK7hF9bit4jpmXGoSNl3BQ

All the best,
David

Cameron

10/26/2017 09:33:12 am

Awesome replies guy, I have a f350 I ll be taking up that way from savannah ga probabaly 12/28/17-1/1/18 if anyone has any suggested sections, it's a fairly capable truck, however has pretty horrible turning radius even for a long bed.

Justin

10/29/2017 09:16:06 pm

I've been exploring the N. GA mountains for a while now and stumbled across the website while planning a trip of my own. You've really helped me make some good trips around the area.
I'm writing this sitting in a cabin in Blue Ridge that I took the Helen to Blue Ridge section to get here. As I've only been familiar the Tray Mtn portion so far, thought I'd get my feet wet on another part.
I started my trek turning onto 348 from 75A and headed West. I stuck to the Doug's route for pretty much the whole journey and ended on 515. For the most part the trip was uneventful and easily tackled by a 2wd and competent driver. It did start to get interesting after turning off of Skeenah Gap onto FS640. This road was really the least improved as section of my drive and is starting to resemble sections of the lower East side of Tray Mtn Rd. Not too technical but also not for anything with low clearance. There were a couple of spots with pretty sticky mud holes that could be an issue if you don't carry some momentum into them.
I never shifted in to 4wd though I did have traction control disabled.
Drove FS95 again today after a day of rain, a little dusting of snow, and below freezing temps and it was a little sloppier than on Fri.

My total trip time from my house to downtown BR was 5h37m and 119mi. Nothing fancy about my rig, stock 2011 f150 4x4 ecoboost with 35's, so decent ground clearance. Would have been a little quicker but I planned poorly for the navigation part of the trip. No cell service made the Duncan ridge to FS640 stint difficult.

I've got unedited video of the trip that I'll try and share somehow if someone wants a preview.

4runner crowd going in Nov, you guys shouldn't have any issues, but check the closure dates on the forestry roads. Many of them are closed Oct30-Apr1.

F350 guy, some of the trails are a little tight as the side of my truck will atest but you should do fine.

If anyone has any questions let me know and I'll do my best to help you out and wouldn't mind joining some folks in a leg or two.

Travis Rayner

10/29/2017 10:30:40 pm

My wife and I are planning a 4 day Thanksgiving trip to north GA. We drive a Subaru Outback (stock) and are looking for some good backroads to explore. Don't need to go rock climbing due to ground clearance, but still need a little adventure that won't tear up the vehicle.

I am glad I found this group and have started looking at the maps, etc. Any insight that may be helpful would be appreciated! We only have about 3 weeks before we roll! Thanks!

10/31/2017 10:51:02 am

What part of N. Ga are y'all headed to?

Jon lindquist

11/4/2017 09:24:59 pm

Thanks for the info bud. I'll have to look into the closure dates as that might be an issue

11/8/2017 10:07:31 am

We are still planning, but it looks like we will start at the far western side which is nearest to home. We will be pulling our little Bunkhouse motorcycle tent camper with us. I plan to lower the air pressure to soften the ride a bit. I know it will slow us down...as I don't want to beat it to pieces!.

I have been following several of the detailed tracks and from the west side to near Blue Ridge looks doable in the Subie. Don't want to go rock climbing or heavy mudding...just looking to enjoy a slow pace and great scenery.

Thanks...I do need to also check for closures!

James

10/31/2017 08:20:55 pm

Just completed another of the GA Traverse legs. We have previously run the Burrell's Ford to Dillard sections and always found conditions, even in the rain, to be fun and relaxing as well as offering beautiful forest scenery. What surprised me is that in mid September and early to mid October the wild flowers along the roads were just outstanding!

Over the last few days (10/28-10/31) I explored and camped at a variety of campsites, one along Hale Ridge Rd which appeared to be an unidentified 4x4 trout fishing campsite and located another site by taking FS 696 off of Hale Ridge (Holcomb Creek Rd) which intersected with FS86B. I headed south back towards Hale Ridge/Overflow Creek Rd. finding another unidentified two-track leading deep into the forest. Both sites were wonderful and so very private in late Oct. However the colder air loves to settle into the valleys so be prepared for a bit of a chill at night in the bottoms or be prepared for lots of windy conditions on the ridge tops.

On my final day and night I connected with eastern side of Tray Mountain and found it to be very exhilarating! Rain had been heavy two days before I got there so there was still a lot of run off but no serious rutting. The rock crawling was awesome and provided a first time to seriously test my little 2002 Ford Ranger 4X4. Made it all the way up, however not finding a suitable camp site after passing the first AT crossover, I reversed back down Tray Mountain east and used one of the 2 roadside sites which worked out great.

Upon leaving the Tray Mtn. Rd camp early in the morning heading to Helen I had a great surprise. I encountered a black mountain lion walking down the road towards my campsite. It turned quickly, swinging its long tail around and scampered back up the road then cut right into the forest not to be seen again.

Like other posts, the Coopers Creek Duncan Ridge Rd is a fine gravel road and other than great campsites and scenery didn't prove any challenge for my travels. The only concern I have at this time is that many of the Traverse roads are also within various WMAs and all those campsites are full of hunters.

Since I have a disdain for group campsites I always look for very remote dispersed camping and so far have had no problem finding sites to suit my temperament.

David, can't thank you enough for all the work and effort you've put into this collection of routes. I have and will continue to enjoy these special places with my wife of 30+ years. Since she is a biologist we spend enormous amounts of time stopping to identify wildflowers, mushrooms, birds, butterflies & trees. So, as you can imagine, travel time and distance are secondary to the outstanding outdoor natural experience.

Best to all!!!

11/23/2017 10:53:18 pm

James,

Thank you very much for your trail report! It sounds as though you had a wonderful trip last month. Thanks for sharing your experience with the community and I'm jealous of the black cat/panther/mountain lion sighting. That's practically legend and a rare sighting indeed! Amazing.

All the best,
David

11/30/2017 07:50:54 am

Any word on a road closure list? des USFS post this anywhere?

12/1/2017 01:55:22 pm

Hi PAUL0580,

The links are found here: http://www.georgiaoverland.com/plan.html

Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest Alerts are here:
https://www.fs.usda.gov/alerts/conf/alerts-notices

Also, take a look at the Motor Vehicle Use Maps for seasonal closures: https://www.fs.usda.gov/detailfull/conf/maps-pubs/?cid=fsm9_029112

Have a great weekend,
David

travis west

12/24/2017 08:02:44 am

hoping to start the traverse the day after Christmas, i looked on the USFS website and did not see any road closures that corresponded with the traverse map. Does anyone know of any closures that are on the traverse map that I might run into?
thanks in advance.

12/26/2017 10:57:31 am

Travis,
Take a look at the Motor Vehicle Use Maps for seasonal closures: https://www.fs.usda.gov/detailfull/conf/maps-pubs/?cid=fsm9_029112

Safe travels,
David

Michaeluessing 3 days

12/31/2017 08:59:18 pm

I am looking at this adventure in the spring. Recently purchased a jeep and overland trailer with rooftop tent. I want to make this trip with my 10 yr old son. What is the typical time frame. I'm guessing 3 days. Thanks for providing this great resource!

1/4/2018 04:51:30 pm

Hi Michael,
Thanks for the kind words and I'm happy to hear it's a useful resource. Three days is a reasonable time frame, with the vast majority of your time spent exploring the areas east of Dalton, Georgia.
Safe travels!
David

1/2/2018 12:18:42 am

I completed the western leg from Silver Hill Road to the end of Conway Road today. It's all clear. It doesn't look like that area had any snow damage from the recent storm. Such a beautiful area, but it was frustrating to see all the garbage strown down the roadsides. Thanks for putting the routes together.

paul0580

1/2/2018 10:40:25 am

BTW, the gate at the southern end of FS205 at Jenkins Gap Rd is open.

1/4/2018 04:47:59 pm

Hi Paul,
Thank you for sharing the information with community!
Happy 2018,
David

dave barnes

1/23/2018 08:45:00 pm

Hi David
had a couple of questions:

I was planning on doing the traverse, starting on 1/26/2018 thru 1/28. starting in dalton and headed east. is this going to be a bad time to go because of hunting season and will i be able to find a camp spot. Also do i need any kind of permit from wma, to ride the traverse.

Thanks for your help

Kevin

1/31/2018 06:01:04 pm

Hi all I'm from Ohio and was thinking about going in early March with my Famley any insight on weather temps to expect?

2/23/2018 01:01:58 pm

Hi Kevin,
I would plan for overnight lows in the mid to high 30's and daytime highs in the low to mid-60's. It will be chilly in the evenings and while it's not likely, you should plan for even cooler temps and the possibility for inclement weather in early March.
Have a great trip,
David

Paul

3/1/2018 05:15:25 am

AND wind. With the wind forecast for the next few days, I would be concerned about blow-downs. With limited resources, any road obstructions blown down will likely be there for several days or weeks.

Ben Harper

3/2/2018 09:06:01 am

Hey all, I was thinking of making this trip with my wife and two kids. From what I've read it doesn't seem like it would be a problem but if anyone has done this trip with kids I would to hear how it went with them. My kids love the outdoors, camping, and some mild 4 wheeling. Thanks in advance.

Frank Wilson

3/6/2018 07:24:36 pm

We took Tray Mountain Road North from GA75 to Corbin Creek Road. The gate at Corbin Creek Road was closed.
There was a road closed barrier across Tray Mountain Road at this point also. We had to backtrack to Indian Grave Gap Road. We then used Indian Grave Gap Road to go back to GA75 .

Just wanted to give a heads up for the road closures at Corbin Creek Road .

3/26/2018 10:51:00 pm

I'd be willing to bet that gate was opened on the 7th. USFS site said the seasonal closures were over then.

3/27/2018 09:54:28 am

Thanks for the feedback Frank and Paul! The 2018 Motor Vehicle Use Maps are available and should include the seasonal and usage information. Take a look here: https://www.fs.usda.gov/detailfull/conf/maps-pubs/?cid=fsm9_029112

Safe travels,
David

Chris

4/16/2018 11:04:33 am

David,

Thanks for putting this together! A small group of us from Dallas, TX and the DC area will be travelling the route from the eastern-most trailhead west as far as Eton, GA next week. Will document and report conditions as we go.

-Chris

4/18/2018 09:17:55 am

Hi Chris,
Thanks for the heads-up and safe travels to the group. The community looks forward to hearing about your experience. Be sure to check the Chattahoochee-Oconee NF alerts page for closures and prescribed burn notices so you can plan accordingly.
Have a great trip,
David

Chris link

4/19/2018 05:17:47 pm

Looks like Dick's Creek Road (FS 164) and Tray Mountain Road (FS 79) are currently closed after all the rain in the area.

https://www.fs.usda.gov/detail/conf/news-events/?cid=FSEPRD573027

Just a quick FYI to anyone else heading this way soon.

-Chris

4/29/2018 09:21:37 am

Thanks for the update, Chris.

I received this from Dave N. on 4/20:

"FSR 164 (Dicks Creek) has a closed gate as of 4/20/2018. It was closed back in early March too but we figured it was due to not all roads had open gates for the season.

We entered from the south where this sections exits and went north and there were a lot of Posted signs so we figured best to turn around about half way up."

Thanks for sending the message, Dave, and apologies for the delay in posting.

Hannah McClure

5/24/2018 11:16:58 pm

My husband, pups and myself will be spending some of the memorial day weekend exploring this trail, starting from the east and headed west. Probably just end in Blue Ridge this time. We will update you all with anything crazy in case you plan to get out for the weekend as well.

5/25/2018 02:50:02 pm

Hi Hannah,
Thank you for keeping us posted and have a wonderful time exploring North Georgia this weekend!
Safe travels,
David

6/17/2018 09:47:16 pm

https://www.lumpkincounty.gov/2018/06/13/rainbow-family-gathering/

There are MANY FS road closures around Nimblewill Church area. The Bull/Jake Mtn areas have been invaded by the "Rainbow Family Gathering." Plan accordingly and check the USFS site for current closures and restrictions.

6/27/2018 09:08:59 am

Thank you for sharing this, Paul. I've updated the Georgia Overland FB page and failed to post this here. Much appreciated!

Derek Kern

6/23/2018 12:28:40 am

Ill be attempting portions of the Traverse starting July 9th. Ill be doing it on a klr 650.

I've been studying the maps from National Geographic, trails illustrated #777 Springer and Cohutta . Also trails illustrated #778 Brasstown bald and Chattooga RIver. Ill be adding/subtracting some roads, and areas as I go. Ill update as time permits.

Thanks for the information you've compiled so far. Its been a grate resource in planning!

6/27/2018 09:10:27 am

Thanks for the kind words, Derek. Have a great ride and safe travels! Also, be sure to keep an eye on the Rainbow Family updates here:
http://www.fs.usda.gov/goto/conf/RainbowFamily

Jake

6/24/2018 09:43:10 am

Kennesaw Ln/Dicks Creek Rd #164 is currently closed. Riding to the National Forest boundary is open(2 miles), but there is a closed gate that prevents further travel.

6/27/2018 09:25:17 am

Thanks for the update, Jake!

6/27/2018 08:58:42 am

Rainbow Gathering Information for the Chattahoochee National Forest is found here:
http://www.fs.usda.gov/goto/conf/RainbowFamily

"The Rainbow Family of Living Light has chosen to hold their 2018 Annual Rainbow Gathering on the Chattahoochee National Forest on the Blue Ridge Ranger District. The unauthorized gathering site is located near Bull Mountain off of Forest Service Road 28-1 in the community of Nimblewill about 15 minutes from Dahlonega, Georgia.

The unauthorized gathering could draw anywhere from 2,000 -- 10,000 people. Officials expect the attendance to peak the week of July 4. Any event of this size can have significant impacts on local communities, natural resources, traffic, and visitors. Please continue to visit this site for regular updates. "

Nolen Grogan link

7/31/2018 12:19:57 pm

Abe Gap Rd / FS 32c leg is closed. If you come in from the west like I did here is a well worn path around the gate that could be mistaken for a hazzard marker since the road is washed out.

The east end at Patterson Gap Road is gated and impassible so this required a full backtrack to Persimmon Road.

7/31/2018 12:32:29 pm

Tray Mountain Road and Corbin Creek Rd section Tray Mountain Rd 1 had a ROAD Closed sign.

I ended up traveling north on Unicoi Turnpike north to Hiawassee HWY 76 and picked up the Traverse again at Barefoot Rd and Hwy 76

8/2/2018 01:24:46 pm

Hi Nolen,
Thank you very much for sharing the Abe Gap Rd, Persimmon Road and Tray Mountain Road closures. This will certainly save others considerable time! Unless it's a scheduled or seasonal closure, you just never know what to expect from one day to the next. I suppose that is what makes it an adventure!

All the best,
David

PS. Check out Nolen's See and Eat Mississippi site!
http://seeandeatms.com/

Brandon

8/30/2018 09:07:07 am

Did the traverse this weekend, We ran into one trail with the gate closed it was off a major road but i cant remember which and tray mountain was very washed out. I think tray mountain is actually closed right now due to heavy rains.

9/3/2018 04:55:43 pm

Thanks for the update, Brandon! The community should plan on Tray Mountain closures.

Safe travels,
David

Robert Temple

9/3/2018 09:04:33 pm

Patterson Gap Rd is blocked off due to a serious washout approx. 8 miles up from Dillard, GA side.

Phillip Billingsley

11/11/2018 08:39:20 am

Hi!
I have a Stewart Stevenson overland truck and was wandering if any of the trails is passable in a truck that size.
Thanks in advance for any feedback

11/11/2018 02:10:10 pm

Most of these roads are gravel service road in the NF. Others are paved or semi-paved county and state routes. You will encounter some low or encroaching branches from time to time, but probably 80-90% of the time your height/length won't be an issue.

11/12/2018 10:04:04 am

Hi Phillip,

Cool rig! As Paul mentioned, low trees (branches, fallen trees, etc) will likely be the primary issue for you. Your S&S is a foot or two taller than many of the typical 4wds on the trails, so it's possible you may find downed trees that everyone else could just drive underneath. Not sure how much height reduction is available through airing down with the CTIS. Width shouldn't be too much of an issue as long as you don't mind the occasional branch making contact in the overgrown sections. The wheelbase shouldn't be much of a challenge as you will not find too many really tight turns. It's possible you may find a bridge that's not built to support 10 tons. The bridge on the western side of the Cohutta Wilderness, on Old Hwy 2, had signage stating a 6 Ton limit. Granted, that was many years ago and it's possible it was upgraded since then. Keep the weight of the M1078 in mind, though.
Safe travels,
David
Georgia Overland

11/14/2018 07:40:43 am

Thanks Paul and David for the feedback. I'm not too concerned about the occasional brush contact. More on the height and weight. I can't wait to go explore the trails, I don't live very far from The start at BF and never knew they existed until now. I'll keep you posted on how it turns out with the S&S
Thanks again guys!

Dave Nanney

12/10/2018 10:19:59 pm

Phillip, In regards to your S/S overland rig I agree with the others on the width and height clearances, you should be ok for the most part. There is one section that I took very recent (I just completed the entire Traverse the weekend of Nov 30 - Dec 3, 2018) and that is section FS-86C "Totter Pole Road" as a more scenic route that is a bit more adventurous. I would NOT recommend that a rig of your size would make it down this stretch. It comes out at Hale Ridge Road and turn right to get back to the Traverse. Check out my posting on the Georgia Overland Facebook page of my most recent trip. As far as Cohutta, there are no tunnels but there are some low hanging trees that could be a problem. But if you have a rig of that size, carrying a chainsaw shouldn't be a problem to have on board.

Now that I think more about it, there is a section off Patterson Gap Road about 5 miles past Dillard that might be a little tight for a rig that big.. Some of these places really look like you are driving through people's backyard and then a little while later look like you are driving right up another persons driveway into their front yard. (David, the road next to Santa's tree farm is what I am thinking of).... Anyway, good luck with doing the entire Traverse, its an amazing trip and well worth taking your time and see all there is to see along the way... especially in Cohutta Wilderness! Cheers -DN

2/12/2019 03:58:53 pm

Thanks Dave for the great information!

I still have a lot of work to get done on the rig and hopefully be finished by mid summer. All the information I can gather till then is greatly appreciated

Thanks again

JAY A NORWOOD

2/10/2019 08:58:27 pm

Completed from Burrles Ford to Trey Mountain this weekend with my 14 and 12 year old. No issues with the Google map version and GPX upload into Gaia Maps. Ran into many on the trial and learned some tricks and tips for solo trips. Trail conditions were excellent and camped off FSR 79 Lat: 34.76959 Lon: -83.66886 at the McClure Creek and Chinquapin Branch-can hold 4-6 vehicles and after the rough trail we were ready to burn some steaks and relax. My 12 year old did a hel of a job ground guiding and we used the MAX TRAX to help down the trail from Lookout Campsite to Chimney MTN

Dicks Creek Rd near Moccasin State park was in poor condition with lots of trees down but the water crossings were fun-all the way to the end where we found a locked gate at HWY 76 Lat: 34.90093Lon: -83.60890. There were some good campsites there but with all the private property signs I didn't like the route.

Next trip we will bypass and pick up where we left off after some fly fishing off Warwoman Rd and Overflow Creek Rd and FS 86 Junction. Love this site and was happy to find some challenging trails only well equipt 4x4's can travel. Beutific, scenic and excited to pick up-see you OUT THERE!

2/11/2019 08:37:38 pm

Thanks for the great report, Jay!

Bryan Haskell

3/2/2019 04:40:54 pm

Heading up to do the traverse. Going to start in Eton, GA and head east. Anyone have any updated trail conditions? I know some of the forest roads were supposed to open 3/1. Going to bring a chainsaw to clear any trees.

3/5/2019 08:57:47 pm

Made it from Eton to Clayton in 2 days. Only encountered two short sections of closed trail. Super fun route. Going to finish the last section tomorrow and the head up to hurricane creek

Tray mountain is no joke but my xterra made it through no problems.

Paul Rushing

3/6/2019 06:20:07 pm

So, what were you driving?

3/6/2019 08:19:20 pm

Finished the GT early today and headed up to run Hurricane Creek Rd .That run was a lot more than I anticipated but made it through without any issues. Headed the rest of the way to max patch and watched the sunset.

Did all of this in a 2011 xterra with 2" lift and 33" tires.

5/3/2019 04:46:36 pm

Thanks for the feedback, Bryan! I'm sure users found the information useful.
-David

Fischer Lord link

4/3/2019 11:02:46 pm

I completed almost the entire traverse (from west to east).
I encountered two closures, one of which actually ended up being a major detour.
Again, these directions assume WEST to EAST
The first is Dicks Creek Rd right after Lake Burton is closed with a gate. Detour is to go back out, turn left, and head up GA2 (Lookout Mtn Scenic Hwy) till you get back on track.
The second is right after the Abe Gap Rd/ FS32C junction, there's a clearly brand new gate blocking the road before any of the fords. This requires a detour back out and onto Patterson Gap Rd I think. I did not actually take this route so cannot confirm for sure whether it's open.

As for everything else, my 2001 Dakota did well. I used the Atlogis US Topo Maps Pro app for navigation which was a breeze, and had my laptop as backup (which was really helpful). Overall a good trip I plan to repeat in the summer.

Fischer Lord

4/3/2019 11:04:37 pm

I should mention my Dakota has a 3" lift, all terrain tires

5/3/2019 04:49:11 pm

Thanks for the intel, Fischer. The detours can be a bummer and they do keep things interesting!
-David

Kevin R Phillips

6/25/2019 08:55:18 am

Hey all!

My schedule is a little cramped, so I am going to attempt this on a Friday afternoon through a Sunday night.

I am about an hour away from the eastern trailhead. Would probably hit the trailhead around 5pm and drive from there.

With Tray Mountain being closed and having to route around it, do you think I could finish in one weekend? I have plenty of lighting, so I am fine doing some night driving if I need to go until 9-10pm at night to make it.

Thanks!

Nolen Grogan

6/25/2019 09:42:35 am

I ran it last year in 2 full days. The entire thing.

This year I did West Side to Tray Mtn in an afternoon and Tray to Dalton GA in one day.

I was solo. Running pretty hard but I did drive all over Tray Mtn. Just one section is closed. Plenty tk see up there

Kevin Phillips

6/25/2019 09:52:52 am

That is awesome to know! Thank you Nolen!

What vehicle were you in? Did you have a winch? I do not yet have a winch and am trying to determine if I need a buddy to drive along or not.

I have a 3 inch lifted Tacoma trd off road, so locker and ATRAC should help out unless it is a mud pit!

6/25/2019 10:12:47 am

I have a bone stock TRD pro 4Runner on 285s. No winch. The only 4 low spots on the trail are the closed trails on the south side of Tray Mtn. Maybe one climb going west just north of there. I’d say you would have to be way off route or tearing up a mud hole like I saw a bunch of idiots doing to get stuck.

6/25/2019 10:32:54 am

Perfect! That is all I needed to know.

Thank you sir!

Chad Lauderbaugh link

6/27/2019 10:39:19 am

Ran the open sections in full June 17-20th east to west, taking our time. At 34.64723, -85.2156, right at the junction, we came upon what I believe was a blocked road and a meth lab. There was black and yellow tape - the kind you'd buy at a hardware store that looks like police line but isn't. It was across the road, with a tree stump sitting behind it. Further behind that, was another tape line, and then a dump of several cases of fluorescent tube-style light bulbs which were crushed and broken to prevent driving through. Beyond that was another tape line and a parked car (sedan). The tape was new, unfaded and not dirty, so it likely just happened that morning. I've come across a deterrence situation like this before in my travels and know it's best to not confront. But it did block a large section of the trail south down 212.

6/27/2019 10:21:43 pm

Did this get reported to the Rangers or local sheriff?

Chad Lauderbaugh

6/28/2019 08:05:35 am

In our reroute, we came upon a forest service worker fixing a sign. We told him and left it at that. We didn't actually "see" anyone, but all of the warning signs to stay away were there and an armed confrontation wasn't in my vacation plans.

6/28/2019 03:21:48 pm

In no way did I intend to suggest you confront anyone up there, just wanted to be sure they know about it. Tweekers are dangerous folks and I just wanna ride!

7/16/2019 09:51:52 am

Thank you for sharing this with the community, Chad. Be safe out there!

Jatween

7/16/2019 12:35:47 am

I’m so excited that we will set on to run the whole trails in 5-6 days this August. I’ve been running through Tray Mountain and Flat land, and other small trails. This time, the first time is all in. And btw we from Florida. Please please leave any tips and tricks or dos and donts. All is appreciated.

Kevin P

7/16/2019 09:18:13 am

From what I understand, Tray Mountain is closed right now due to deep ruts.

Otherwise, you should be in for a beautiful trip! Have fun!

7/16/2019 10:00:33 am

Thanks for sharing the current conditions on Tray with the community, Kevin. Have a great time, Jatween. Five to six days will allow you to really take your time camping, hiking, etc. Safe travels and be prepared to re-route as trail/road conditions and closures pop up with little notice. Take a look at the "Current Forest Service Road closures on the Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forests" Map found here:
https://www.google.com/maps/d/viewer?mid=13PWpFMKC2-qAnwlVhbIWbUX5TXtImlCr

Bert Poston

7/16/2019 12:43:44 pm

Drove the loop around Cohutta and Big Frog wilderness areas yesterday (7/15/19), all clear, all open.

9/25/2019 07:47:19 pm

I know it's a late reply and thank you for sharing your experience, Bert!

Brett

8/20/2019 12:37:22 pm

Ran it back in June 14- 20 in my stock LX470 on 285's. Got on around Eaton just north of Chatsworth. Stayed in the forest service campground first night.Had to clear a small tree on Cow Pen Rd. Got off around Blue Ridge, no issues along the route.

Jumped back on at Skeenah rd, then through the northern part of Cooper Creek (where all the campsites were taken). Made it down to Helen.

Next day tried Tray mountain from the eastern side of Helen which was definitely closed, but people had been running it anyway (you guys are going to mess it up for everyone) Went up the west side of to the first campsite and found it full of trash, that section was open.

Ended up getting on around barefoot rd and taking Charlies creek all the way through to the Tallulah River crossing with no issues.

Can't wait to go back and finish the last bit.

9/25/2019 07:51:56 pm

Thanks for your post, Brett. Sorry to hear about Tray Mountain and you're right about people ignoring the closures. I do believe we will see a section of the Tray Mountain trail permanently closed one of these days unless folks make better choices. Thank you for being a good role model and steward.

Scott Mac link

11/12/2019 04:23:14 pm

To my knowledge the technical south side of tray mountain if I have that right has had road closed signs since 2/2017. The Forestry service has never removed them knowing I've been there a few times since 2017 till now. I gather they are to lazy to assess it for people to drive up who are experienced and dont want to deal with the novice that may make a mistake. I dont believe the section should be closed there make many passes out west that are far worse and stay open constantly. I'd love someone to get an official plan/word on that section because honestly I know the section well and while I dont dare say go on I will say a little plastic half assed barricade that's collecting dust is no longer preventing me from venturing on. Looking forward to updates I'll be headed up again myself early winter and depending on conditions will make the pass and relay back. But I'm only in area from FL couple times a year but have a very capable rig

Scott Mac

12/10/2019 09:05:09 pm

So just finished up the traverse and not bad some more "possible campsites" need to be established west of Wilscot GA. Other than that here is the big update on Chimney Rock Rd. The status is there is no barricaded road closed only soft signs on trees. According to Georgia DRS the road will remain forever in the state it is in and the reason for road closed signs are for simple fact they are no longer maintaining. So that being said I made it all way from bottom to top ascending. There is 2 trees very large down across the rd. The max clearance is 8ft 8 inches unless you have a 24inch chain saw and some skill. I'll post video but again people are going up and down Chimney Rock Rd they are not working on it so its use at your own risk and user maintained. The wash out area and culvert pipe was easily conquered with stacked set of maxtraxx. Cheers all trail was great. Ph and Dicks Creek is barricaded closed due to excessive down trees which they are working to clear but not until spring apprently.

The Georgia Traverse Status - Reported Conditions

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