Living in the city has its many perks, but sometimes if you just want to get away from the hustle and bustle of it all, you'll have to hop in the car and travel a few miles away. Georgia has many trails and waterfall hikes that'll make you forget your stresses and be one with nature. There are a few hikes in Georgia that are completely free, so you don't even have to stress about spending money. Many trails, preserves, and state parks require a parking fee, but these seven spots don't require anything when you enter. As long as you keep the area clean for others to enjoy, you're good to go. Some of these hikes are easy, but some can become a bit more difficult as you rise in elevation. But that elevation gain means more incredible sky-high views, which all of these spots offer. Editor's Choice: 7 Florida Hotels With The Most Wow-Worthy Pools That'll Make You Forget Traveling Abroad Make sure to charge your phone or bring your camera because you're going to want to remember the views on these free Georgia hikes forever. Blood Mountain Address: P3Q7+W7, Owltown, GA Why You Need To Go: In the entire Blood Mountain Wilderness area, this is the highest peak and you can hike it. The scenic sights from the top give you a panoramic view of the treetops and mountain ranges in the distance, oh, and waterfalls too. View this post on Instagram hiking drip dummy hard - appalachian trail w/ the girlz A post shared by 🅙🅞🅡🅓🅨🅝 :P (@jordynfrostt) on Jul 21, 2020 at 8:36am PDT Website Keown Falls Hiking Trail Address: None listed; Directions can be found on USDA's website. Why You Need To Go: This trail is perfect for both beginners and experienced hikers. It has a waterfall, a nice smooth trail and a beautiful view from atop John's Mountain. View this post on Instagram Monday madness... just breathe! • • • #feelinghappy #becauseofyou ♥️ #nature #naturephotography #naturelovers #waterfall #waterfallsofinstagram #hikegeorgia #northgeorgia #northgeorgiamountains #northgeorgiawaterfalls #keownfalls #lookup #travel #travelphotography #travelguide #hikenorthgeorgia #naturalgeorgia #georgiaparks #nationalparks #explore #getoutside #iwanttobewithyou ♥️ A post shared by 🇺🇸~Meredith (@travelingtennessee) on Mar 9, 2020 at 3:55pm PDT Website Davidson-Arabia Nature Preserve Address: 3787 Klondike Rd., Stonecrest, GA Why You Need To Go: There are miles of trails at this preserve, but whichever one you choose to take, you'll be sure to end up with some scenic views. There are wildflowers that grow around this area that make an even more beautiful hike. View this post on Instagram ||Alexa play Mr.Blue Sky by Electric Light Orchestra⚡️🦋 • • • • • •i only did this for the pictures and great lighting 😼 A post shared by 𝕗 𝕖 𝕟 𝕕 𝕚 𝕒 𝕟 𝕟 💕⚡️🌎 (@fendi.x.24) on Jul 28, 2020 at 9:32am PDT Website Morningside Nature Preserve Address: 2020 Lenox Rd. NE, Atlanta, GA Why You Need To Go: Otherwise known as "dog beach," this preserve has two trails and a suspension bridge that connects the two of them so you can cross over to the sandy shores. This is perfect for an easy day hike with your furry friends. View this post on Instagram 🌿Fresh air🌿 . . . #atlanta #georgia #explore #instadog #dogsofinstagram #dogs_of_instagram #miniaussiedoodles #aussiedoodle #dog #atlantadogsofinstagram #nature #dogsthathike #dogs #atlantadogs A post shared by Eloise Hultstrand (@eloise.at.the.pawza) on Jul 11, 2020 at 8:12am PDT Website Three Forks Trail Address: 2694 Old Hwy 2, Cisco, GA Why You Need To Go: Located in the Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest and in the Cohutta Wilderness, this moderate trail will take you to beautiful rushing river falls. The sunsets are to die for while hanging out on one of the river boulders. Other trails here will also offer stunning views if you want to take a full day to explore. View this post on Instagram Easily the best camping site I have ever seen #hammockcamping #waterfall A post shared by Billy Boutwood (@billyb08041) on Aug 27, 2018 at 4:26pm PDT Website Bartram Trail Address: Chattooga River/Bartram trailhead, Clayton, GA Why You Need To Go: This is a more strenuous hike, but you'll have 360-degree views from the observation tower at trail's summit. This spot is located deep in the forest, so you can really get lost in nature. View this post on Instagram Day hiker @ mile 26: “Are you trying to trail run?” Me: “Something like that”. Apparently this was 28 + some change; so here’s to casually running over marathon distances in training? Officially 3 weeks out from attempting my first 50 miler, and knew if I could get 7-8 hours under my belt I could trust my legs again after a sub-optimal block of training. A little unsure at best but the work is done, and hey — ultras are all about showing up and one foot in front of the other right??? Let’s taper! “If it's a nod from society you're looking for, run a marathon. But if it's a life-changing experience of personal strength and perseverance that you want, finish an ultra.” A post shared by Lyss 🌻 (@alyssaolenick) on Sep 1, 2019 at 9:14am PDT Website Springer Mountain Address: Springer Mountain Trail, Dawsonville, GA Why You Need To Go: This trail can be challenging with the elevation gain, but the wildflowers, hardwood forest, and waterfalls make it difficult to not enjoy the hike. There's a beautiful view at the summit, a bronze plaque of the Appalachian Trail, and even a book you can sign. View this post on Instagram On March 2021 me and @john_doe815 will start the 2200 miles to try and complete the Appalachian Trail. Should be fun! A post shared by Brett Roberts (@iambrettr) on May 25, 2020 at 12:21pm PDT Website So what are you waiting for? Whether you go it alone, grab your boo or your entire crew, these stunning and free hikes are waiting to help you escape the busy city without breaking the bank. We strongly advise that before you go swimming or visit any location, you check the most recent updates on potential hazards, security, water quality, and closures. If you do plan to visit a location, respect the environment and obey any local laws.
