Tuesday, August 14, 2012

Georgia Backpacking Raven Cliff Falls Trail

Raven Cliff Trails Location

GPS Coordinates: 34.709968, -83.787836


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Raven Cliff Pictures


Cool Shot from Atop the 400 ft Cliff
Magnolia's in Bloom

Side shot of Cliffs


Me


B-E-A-uftiful

Crazy View off the Cliff

The Roots Used in the Climb


Inside Raven Cliff Falls


Lookout on the way to Raven Cliff Falls

Raven Cliff Falls Review

Type:       In-and-Out
Length:    2.5 miles In 
Cost:        Free

Type: In and Out
Length: 5 Miles (in-and-out)
Cost: Free
Ranger Station: Located 15 miles away in Vogel State Park, no check-in required
Fires:  Allowed
Availability:  February - December
Difficulty:  Easy
Trail Conditions: Good trails, can be muddy at times
Water:  Plenty, Dodd Creek flows next to trail
Features:  Waterfalls, steams, rock cliffs

A beautiful trail for those looking for a day hike or a good overnight camp.  The trail is an in-and-out trail so there is no worry about getting lost.  The best part of this trail is reaching the end, where you can actually climb up and see how far up the peak you can get.  After a few times of camping on this trail, I found the best way to set up camp about midway through and then go and enjoy the falls without having to carry all of your gear.  The climb up the gnarled root system is fun and surprisingly easy.  The falls are also a sight to see, especially since you can get right under them or even on top of them!

Every time I have been, I have stayed on the opposite side of the river about 3/4 of the way in.  Its a weary walk across a slippery log, but the camp spot is well worth it.  There is a small waterfall near where you can set up your tents which is ever so soothing to fall asleep to.  Hammocks can be used around here and there is a well established fire pit with so called rock-chairs.  

Bears have been sighted on the trail so anyone camping should be cautious and follow the recommended procedures, such as tying your food up in a tree away from camp.  For those who seek a thrill, climb to the top of the cliff at night to see a starry lit sky but be sure to use headlamps so you can use your hands to climb.

I recommend this trail to people who just started backpacking, those looking for a solid day hike, or those who just want a beautiful view.

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