Windy Gap Trail

Windy Gap Trail is a steady mountain climb that begins at 1,296 feet and ascends to over 3,100 feet in five miles. Depending on your objective, the hike can extend to 6.0 miles (Lake Conasauga) or 6.5 miles (Grassy Mountain Fire Tower). Technically, Windy Gap Trail ends near a forest service road below Grassy Mountain. From that junction, turning left adds 1.5 miles on a quiet service road to the Grassy Mountain Fire Tower at 3,652 feet. Turning right leads roughly one mile to Lake Conasauga, the highest lake in Georgia. The trail gains approximately 1,900 feet, most of it in the first three miles. The lower section is wide and open, functioning as a multi-use trail where motorcycles and four-wheelers are permitted. While this may concern some hikers, the benefit is immediate: the trail remains clear of encroaching brush and deadfall, even in summer. During weekdays, encounters with ORVs are uncommon, and even on weekends they tend to be brief.

 

Around mile 2, near the Milma Trail junction, a sign reads: “Experienced Riders Only Beyond This Point.” This marks the steepest section — a short but sharp pitch, perhaps 1/8 mile long, approaching a 30-degree grade. After this burst, the climb moderates. As elevation increases, the trail narrows from wide corridor to single footpath. The forest transitions subtly. The air cools. The hardwood canopy grows taller and more spaced. Near the upper section, the character begins to resemble the southern approach to the Appalachian Trail — high ridge forest, filtered light, quiet. There is a fork near the top where an unnamed path continues straight. Turn right to remain on Windy Gap Trail. Water sources are scarce. There are no dependable crossings until near the upper elevations where a small tributary may be encountered. Plan accordingly. Reaching the end of the 5-mile trail feels like arriving at a threshold. From here: * Turn left and follow the service road 1.5 miles to the Grassy Mountain Fire Tower. The road climbs gently through magnificent hardwoods. The tower sits near the summit at 3,652 feet, with a bench below and scattered sitting rocks. The tower cab is locked, but the clearing offers a satisfying rest point.

 

• Turn right and continue approximately one mile to Lake Conasauga (3,143 feet). The lake is spring-fed and holds the distinction of being Georgia’s highest lake. The campground features 35 family campsites with tent pads, picnic tables, fire rings, lantern posts, restrooms, and water faucets — but no electricity. A small beach and boat ramp (electric motors only) sit along the shoreline. It is a strong basecamp for exploring the Cohutta Wilderness.

 

Windy Gap Trail is open year-round to hikers. It is not a dramatic river trail. It is not technical. It is a sustained climb — a mountain earned step by step — ending in high-elevation air and broad forest perspective.