Easy hikes and walks in Tray Mountain Wilderness
4.9
(41)
398
hikers
28
hikes
If you’ve ever tried to plan hiking in Tray Mountain Wilderness, you know how quickly the options can feel overwhelming. With so many trails crisscrossing this rugged landscape, it’s tough to know which ones are genuinely worth your time and effort. That’s where we come in: our komoot community has explored, mapped, and reviewed these routes, so we’ve done the legwork to bring you a curated shortlist of the best, saving you the guesswork.
Hiking here means immersing yourself in…
Last updated: May 10, 2026
1
hikers
1.24km
00:30
140m
0m
The Appalachian Trail: Tray Gap to Tray Mountain offers a concentrated dose of rugged beauty, leading you through dense, moss-blanketed forests before a continuous, steep climb to one of Georgia's…
1.96km
00:47
240m
0m
The Appalachian Trail from Indian Grave Gap to Rocky Mountain offers a surprisingly potent punch for its length, leading you through dense, vibrant forests to a rewarding summit. You'll navigate…
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5.0
(1)
52
hikers
1.56km
00:30
70m
70m
The Anna Ruby Falls Trail is a delightful, easy 1.0-mile (1.6 km) hike that takes you through a serene, tree-lined path alongside Smith Creek, culminating in the stunning twin waterfalls…
23
hikers
3.01km
00:53
80m
80m
The Hemlock Falls Trail offers a delightful, easy hike through a lush temperate rainforest, making it a perfect choice for a tranquil outing. You'll wander among towering Douglas fir and…
5.0
(3)
43
hikers
4.07km
01:13
130m
130m
The High Shoals Falls Trail offers a delightful journey through a lush, green forest, where old-growth trees, mountain laurel, mosses, and ferns create a vibrant canopy. You'll follow High Shoals…
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Tips from the Community
Tray Mountain, standing at an elevation of 4,430 ft, ranks as the seventh-highest peak in Georgia. Reaching the summit involves a continuous climb through a lush forest, and once at the top, you're rewarded with a stunning view of the rolling hills in the area.
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Hemlock Falls is a 15-foot waterfall that cascades down into a big pool of water. The trail to the falls is fairly short and dead-ends at the falls, so this spot can get busy (best to hit the trail early). You can add on some nature trails in Moccasin Creek State Park if you want more miles.
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Hemlock Falls is a 15-foot waterfall that cascades down into a big pool of water. The trail to the falls is fairly short and dead-ends at the falls, so this spot can get busy (best to hit the trail early). You can add on some nature trails in Moccasin Creek State Park if you want more miles.
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The summit of Rocky Mountain is just off the side of the Appalachian Trail. There is also a nearby campsite at the end of the short spur trail. There is a view through the trees at the peak, which is most often approached from the east via Unicoi Turnpike.
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The Anna Ruby Falls Trail is a completely paved path to the viewing area for Anna Ruby Falls. There is a large parking area at the start of the trail with a fee collection box required for trail users. There are informational signs and restrooms at the parking area. There is also a super short nature walk (only a few hundred meters) called Lion's Eye Trail starting from the same trailhead.
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Anna Ruby Falls is a set of two twin waterfalls. The tallest of the two cascades is over 150 feet high, and there are multiple viewing platforms from which you can stand to see the falls. You can't actually go up next to the falls due to falling and drowning hazards, but the viewing platforms offer a safe space for everyone in the family to enjoy the spectacle. There is a short stroller and wheelchair friendly trail that is entirely paved from the parking area, or you can hike on the singletrack Smith Creek Trail. Anna Ruby Falls is one of the most visited natural features in the Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest.
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A little more ascending from the lower pool brings you to a great viewpoint of where the falls begin. Climbing up the wet rocks is not recommended.
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A beautiful reward for a brief hike, High Shoals Waterfall has also created a substantial pool that invites hikers in. As always with moving water, keep an eye on the young ones and watch out for slippery, mossy rocks on your way in and out.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many easy hiking trails are available in Tray Mountain Wilderness?
There are 8 easy hiking trails in Tray Mountain Wilderness, forming part of a larger network of 30 routes suitable for various skill levels.
Are there any easy trails that lead to waterfalls in Tray Mountain Wilderness?
Yes, several easy trails lead to beautiful waterfalls. The Anna Ruby Falls Trail is a paved path leading to spectacular cascading falls. Other easy options include the Hemlock Falls Trail and the High Shoals Falls Trail, both offering scenic waterfall views.
What kind of views can I expect on easy hikes in Tray Mountain Wilderness?
Easy hikes in Tray Mountain Wilderness offer diverse views, from dense forests and rugged backcountry to expansive mountain vistas. Trails like the Appalachian Trail: Tray Gap to Tray Mountain provide glimpses of the Blue Ridge Mountains and the surrounding Chattahoochee National Forest, especially from higher elevations.
Are the easy trails in Tray Mountain Wilderness suitable for families with children?
Yes, many easy trails are suitable for families. The Anna Ruby Falls Trail, for instance, is a paved, accessible path perfect for all ages to enjoy the waterfalls. The generally gentle terrain of easy routes makes them a good choice for family outings.
Can I bring my dog on the easy hiking trails?
Tray Mountain Wilderness is generally dog-friendly, but it's always best to check specific trail regulations. Most trails within the Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest allow leashed dogs. Ensure your dog is well-behaved and that you carry waste bags.
What is the best time of year to hike the easy trails in Tray Mountain Wilderness?
Spring and fall are generally the best seasons for hiking in Tray Mountain Wilderness. Spring brings blooming wildflowers, including rhododendrons, while fall offers vibrant foliage. Summer can be warm and humid, but the forest provides shade. Winter hiking is possible, but be prepared for colder temperatures and potential ice at higher elevations.
Are there any short, easy loop trails in Tray Mountain Wilderness?
While many trails are out-and-back segments, some routes can be combined or are naturally shorter loops. For example, the Anna Ruby Falls Trail is a short, paved loop to the falls. Always check the route details on komoot for specific loop options and distances.
What do other hikers say about the easy trails in Tray Mountain Wilderness?
The easy trails in Tray Mountain Wilderness are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.9 stars from over 40 reviews. Hikers often praise the natural beauty, the tranquility of the forests, and the accessibility of these routes.
Are there any specific natural features or landmarks to look out for on easy hikes?
Beyond the waterfalls, hikers can encounter diverse plant life, including dense mountain laurel and rhododendron canopies. The area is known for its rugged backcountry and unique ecosystems. Keep an eye out for boulderfields and the varied forest types.
Where can I find parking for easy trailheads in Tray Mountain Wilderness?
Parking is typically available at designated trailheads. For routes like the Appalachian Trail: Tray Gap to Tray Mountain, parking is usually found near the gap. For the Anna Ruby Falls Trail, there is a dedicated parking area at the Anna Ruby Falls Recreation Area. Always check specific route descriptions for detailed parking information.
What is the typical elevation gain on easy trails in Tray Mountain Wilderness?
Easy trails in Tray Mountain Wilderness generally feature moderate elevation changes. For example, the Anna Ruby Falls Trail has an elevation gain of about 71 meters, while the Appalachian Trail: Tray Gap to Tray Mountain involves an ascent of around 144 meters. These are manageable for most hikers seeking an easy experience.
Are there any less crowded easy hikes in Tray Mountain Wilderness?
While popular spots like Anna Ruby Falls can attract visitors, many other easy trails offer a more secluded experience, especially during off-peak hours or seasons. Exploring lesser-known segments of the Appalachian Trail, such as the Appalachian Trail: Indian Grave Gap to Rocky Mountain, can provide a quieter hike.
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