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Rising to an impressive elevation of 4,696 feet, Rabun Bald is Georgia’s second-highest peak—surpassed only by Brasstown Bald. Located just east of Dillard in Rabun County, the hike to the summit via the historic Bartram Trail offers an exhilarating mountain adventure rewarded by a stone observation platform providing unmatched 360-degree views across Georgia, North Carolina, and South Carolina.
~3.0 miles out-and-back (from Beall Gap Road / Kelsey Mountain Road) | ~8.4 miles out-and-back (from Hale Ridge Road)
Strenuous
~1,000 ft to 2,200 ft (depending on starting trailhead)
Blaze Color: Yellow (Bartram Trail)
Pet Policy: Dogs allowed on leash
At the summit sits a stone-and-wood fire tower built on a high rock outcrop. The top platform offers sweeping, unobstructed views of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Rabun County valleys, and nearby peaks like Black Rock Mountain and Whiteside Mountain.
The trail ascends through lush, dense forest, winding past mountain laurel, hardwood canopy, and vibrant spring/summer wildflower displays.
Named in honor of 18th-century naturalist William Bartram, who explored and documented the flora, fauna, and Cherokee heritage of the Southern Appalachians in the 1770s.
The shortest route to the summit begins at the trailhead off Kelsey Mountain Road / Beall Gap Road. Parking is limited along the roadside pull-off, so arriving early on weekends is recommended.
The summit is significantly cooler and far windier than the valley floor below. Bring a windbreaker or warm extra layers regardless of the season.
The upper portion of the trail becomes steep, rocky, and root-filled. Wear sturdy hiking boots with good traction, and consider bringing trekking poles for the descent.
Blue Ridge Mountains / Chattahoochee National Forest, Rabun County, GA
~15–20 minutes east of downtown Dillard and Sky Valley
Free entrance year-round