conasauga
Moderate
out and back
East Cowpen Trail
A 7-mile ridgeline traverse along historic Old Georgia Highway 2, dividing the Conasauga and Jacks River watersheds.
13.2 mi+3,100 ftconasauga
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Loop Itinerary
Jacks River Gorge Traverse
strenuous24 miles total
24 mi
Total Distance
Strenuous
Difficulty
5
Trail Segments
Overview
The Jacks River Gorge Traverse is the most demanding multi-day route in the Cohutta Wilderness, combining the full length of the Jacks River Trail with the Beech Bottom and Hemp Top trails for a 24-mile circuit through the most remote terrain in the wilderness.
This is a route for experienced backcountry travelers only. The Jacks River gorge is remote, the crossings are numerous and can be dangerous, and rescue response times are long. Plan for 3-4 days and be prepared for changing conditions.
Safety Notes
Extreme caution required. The Jacks River gorge is remote and rescue is difficult. Never attempt in high water. Always check weather forecasts for the entire watershed before departure.
Trails in This Loop
Moderate
out and back
Jacks River Trail - Beech Bottom to Alaculsey Valley
An 8.3-mile whitewater river corridor with 22 fords and Jacks River Falls — the most iconic stretch of trail in the Cohutta Wilderness.
15.2 mi+980 ftjacks
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jacks
Moderate
out and back
Beech Bottom Trail
The easiest and shortest route to Jacks River Falls — a gentle 4-mile approach through ridgeline forest and river floodplain.
9.3 mi+990 ftjacks
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jacks
Moderate
Hickory Ridge Trail
A 3.5-mile interior ridge walk descending from East Cowpen to Jacks River, offering winter panoramas and a dramatic river finish.
3.5 mi+1,400 ftjacks
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jacks
Moderate
out and back
Rough Ridge Trail
A 7-mile remote ridge traverse descending from East Cowpen to Jacks River through some of the wildest terrain in the Cohutta Wilderness.
14.4 mi+3,175 ftjacks
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