Trail Overview

Coosa Backcountry Loop Cohutta Wilderness is a strenuous 13.0-mile loop trail located in Gilmer County, Georgia. Gaining 2200 feet in elevation on a Dirt surface, the route follows a loop route that returns to the same trailhead via a different path. Most visitors complete this trail in 7-8 hours. Whether you are an experienced outdoors person looking for a new challenge or someone stepping up from easier terrain, this trail rewards the effort with genuine highlights that make Gilmer County such a compelling destination for hikingers.

Trail at a Glance

  • Distance: 13.0 miles · Loop
  • Elevation Gain: 2200 feet
  • Difficulty: Hard
  • Surface: Dirt
  • Best Season: Spring-Fall
  • Estimated Time: 7-8 hours
  • Fee: Free
  • Dogs: Yes
  • Permit: No

What to Expect

The trail begins at the trailhead in Gilmer County and immediately reveals the character of the surrounding landscape. The Dirt underfoot provides reliable traction for most conditions, and the route is clearly signed throughout. As elevation builds over the 13.0-mile distance, the scenery shifts through distinct zones — a defining feature of hiking in Georgia where the landscapes change dramatically with altitude.

The 2200-foot elevation change is the heart of the experience. The route distributes the climbing through the first half, with a more gradual descent on the return leg, so the effort feels well-paced. At hard difficulty, strenuous for those with some trail experience, the reward is a summit, viewpoint, or destination that justifies every step.

Wildlife is an integral part of Coosa Backcountry Loop Cohutta Wilderness. The habitat along the route supports the species typical of Gilmer County's ecosystems, and early-morning visitors are most likely to encounter animals actively moving through the landscape. Stay a respectful distance from any wildlife you encounter and resist the urge to approach or feed them — for their safety and yours.

Planning Your Visit

The trail is open Spring-Fall. There is no entrance or parking fee. Leashed dogs are welcome. No permit is required for day use. Arrive early on weekends and holidays to secure parking and beat the afternoon heat or weather that builds in many parts of Georgia. If you plan to stop frequently for photos or exploration, add extra time beyond the 7-8 hours average.

What to Pack

  • Water: Minimum 2 liters per person; more in warm weather or for strenuous sections
  • Navigation: Download the GPX file from this page before leaving home — cell service is unreliable on many Georgia trails
  • Sun protection: Sunscreen, hat, and UV sunglasses, particularly at elevation or in open terrain
  • Layers: A lightweight wind or rain layer even on sunny days — conditions change fast in mountain environments
  • Food: Energy-dense snacks for sustained effort; a full meal for longer days
  • First aid: Blister care, pain reliever, bandages, and any personal medications
  • Emergency: Whistle, emergency bivy or space blanket, headlamp with fresh batteries

Getting There

The trailhead for Coosa Backcountry Loop Cohutta Wilderness is located in Gilmer County, Georgia. Before your visit, confirm current road and trail conditions with the managing agency — seasonal closures, weather events, and maintenance work can affect access at any time. Use the GPX file on this page to navigate to the trailhead and follow the route once you are on the trail.

Leave No Trace

Trails like Coosa Backcountry Loop Cohutta Wilderness depend on the collective care of every visitor. Stay on the designated path — cutting switchbacks and wandering off-trail erodes soil, damages plant communities, and creates new paths that take years to recover. Pack out everything you carry in, including food wrappers, orange peels, and pet waste. If you bring a dog, keep it leashed at all times and clean up after it. Yield to uphill hikers, give horses and pack animals extra space, and keep voices low to avoid disturbing wildlife and other visitors seeking a quiet experience.

Download the GPX File

Ready to hike Coosa Backcountry Loop Cohutta Wilderness? Download the free GPX file from this page to load the route into Garmin, Gaia GPS, Komoot, AllTrails, or any compatible navigation app. No account required — download the file, load it onto your device before you leave cell service, and you are set.