The best family-friendly hikes and walks in Tray Mountain Wilderness
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Family friendly hiking trails in Tray Mountain Wilderness traverse a rugged backcountry environment within Georgia's Blue Ridge Ranger District. The region is characterized by elevated terrain, lush forests of rhododendron and mountain laurel, and fast-flowing streams that often lead to waterfalls. Tray Mountain, standing at 4,430 feet, offers panoramic views, while the lower elevations feature diverse woodlands and unique natural sites. This area provides varied landscapes suitable for family-friendly exploration.
Best family friendly hiking trails in Tray Mountain Wilderness
- The…
Last updated: May 13, 2026
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6.17km
02:07
330m
330m
Hike the moderate 3.8-mile Andrews Cove Trail through a lush mountain cove to connect with the Appalachian Trail in Chattahoochee National F
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3.01km
00:53
80m
80m
Enjoy an easy 1.9-mile hike to the beautiful 80-foot Hemlock Falls in Moccasin Creek State Park, gaining 273 feet in elevation.
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(3)
41
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4.07km
01:13
130m
130m
Hike the easy 2.5-mile High Shoals Falls Trail to discover two beautiful waterfalls, Blue Hole Falls and High Shoals Falls, in Georgia.
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9
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6.79km
01:53
120m
120m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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45
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3.24km
00:52
30m
30m
Discover the Unicoi Lake Trail, an easy 2.0-mile (3.2 km) hike that circles the picturesque Unicoi Lake. This route involves a gentle elevation gain of 108 feet (33 metres) and…
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Tips from the Community
The zip line goes along here. We haven't tried it ourselves yet.
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Andrews Cove Trail is a forested trail that crosses several creeks and waterfalls, leading to Andrews Cove Campground. The trail features a steep downhill slope, which makes it a bit challenging, but the surrounding forest and flowing water provide a rewarding, immersive experience. You can choose to start at the campground and hike uphill, or begin from the top and descend to the campground.
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Andrews Cove Campground is a rustic riverside campground with picnic tables, toilets, drinking water and parking. To camp, you need to make a reservation and pay a fee, and the maximum you can stay is 14 days. This is a humid area that is propitious to look for fungi.
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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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Unicoi Lake is engulfed by a North Georgia forest and circled by a hiking trail. The trail is relatively flat with rolling hills and easy to navigate. There are usually a lot of trail users, and there is a $5 parking fee so come prepared.
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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 family-friendly hiking trails are available in Tray Mountain Wilderness?
There are 5 family-friendly hiking trails featured in this guide for Tray Mountain Wilderness. Most of these are rated as easy, with one moderate option, making them suitable for various family skill levels.
Are there any family-friendly trails with waterfalls in Tray Mountain Wilderness?
Yes, the Tray Mountain Wilderness is known for its beautiful waterfalls. You can enjoy the impressive High Shoals Falls on the High Shoals Falls Trail, which is an easy 4 km hike. Another great option is the Hemlock Falls Trail, also easy, leading to a lovely cascade. The region also features Anna Ruby Falls, a pair of spectacular cascading waterfalls.
Can I find circular family walks in Tray Mountain Wilderness?
Absolutely! For families looking for a loop, the Hemlock Falls loop from Fish Hatchery offers an easy 6.8 km circular route, perfect for a family outing without retracing your steps.
What kind of natural features and viewpoints can we expect on family hikes?
The family-friendly trails in Tray Mountain Wilderness offer diverse natural beauty. You'll encounter lush forests with rhododendron and mountain laurel, especially vibrant in late spring and early summer. Many trails follow fast-flowing streams. While the highest peaks offer panoramic views, even easier trails like the Unicoi Lake Trail provide scenic lakeside vistas.
What is the best time of year for family hikes in Tray Mountain Wilderness?
Late spring and early summer are particularly beautiful, as the rhododendron and mountain laurel are in full bloom, creating a vibrant landscape. Autumn also offers stunning fall foliage. The region's moderate climate generally makes it enjoyable for hiking from spring through fall, but always check local weather conditions before heading out.
Are dogs allowed on the family-friendly trails in Tray Mountain Wilderness?
Generally, dogs are welcome on trails in the Tray Mountain Wilderness, but it's always best to check specific trail regulations before you go. Remember to keep your dog on a leash, clean up after them, and ensure they are well-behaved around other hikers and wildlife.
What is the typical duration for these family-friendly hikes?
The family-friendly hikes in this guide vary in length and duration. For example, the Hemlock Falls Trail can be completed in about 50 minutes, while the longer Andrews Cove Trail might take around 2 hours and 5 minutes. Most easy trails are designed to be manageable for families with children, typically ranging from 1 to 2 hours of walking time.
What kind of wildlife might we see on family hikes in this area?
The Tray Mountain Wilderness is home to diverse wildlife. On family-friendly trails, you might commonly spot deer, squirrels, grouse, and wild turkeys. More elusive animals like black bears and raccoons also inhabit the area, so it's always good to be aware of your surroundings and practice Leave No Trace principles.
What do other hikers enjoy most about hiking in Tray Mountain Wilderness?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.88 stars. Reviewers often praise the serene natural beauty, the well-maintained paths, and the rewarding experience of discovering waterfalls and scenic viewpoints, making it a favorite for family outings.
Are there any easy trails suitable for younger children or beginners?
Yes, several trails are ideal for younger children or those new to hiking. The Unicoi Lake Trail is particularly easy, offering a flat path around the lake. The Hemlock Falls Trail and High Shoals Falls Trail are also excellent easy options that reward hikers with beautiful waterfall views.
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