Smith Creek Trail
Trails Georgia Smith Creek Trail
Georgia · White County

Smith Creek Trail

Winds over Hickory Nut Ridge and Smith Mountain

Rating
Length
4.5 mi
Difficulty
4
County
White

About This Trail

The trail can be accessed from either end, from Unicoi Park Road or Anna Ruby Falls. The hike is significantly easier when beginning at the falls. Contrary to its name, Smith Creek is not seen or heard from after the first 0.5 mile. The trail climbs up the ridge then descends by switchback down the mountain.

Location

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Coordinates: 34.7462997437, -83.7111968994 Open in Google Maps

Getting There

From Helen, take GA 75 north approximately 1 mile to Unicoi State Park. Enter the park and follow signs to Anna Ruby Falls road. Smith Creek Trail is accessed from Anna Ruby Falls parking.

Trail Reports

Nice Hike

Day Hike October 31, 2021

Good hike. Trail is maintained and clear of fallen trees. Pretty strenuous. Lots of steep hills and uneven terrain. Nice woodland hike. Must wear gook hiking shoes and bring plenty of water. 10 miles round trip. About 30 minuets into it you come to a small creek. Its hard to tell where the path picks up. You have to cross the stream. I made the mistake of turning left and following where I guess many other people thought the trail went since it almost looks like a trail. I'd hike it again.

I Felt Robbed

Day Hike October 31, 2021

I gave this hike four stars because nobody ever tried to describe it as anything that it wasn't. I guess I just felt a little jaded that it ended at Annaruby Falls where all the tourists had just hiked 0.4 miles to get to the same place! ;) The trail is pretty well maintained and nothing too strenuous. I would rate it moderate. There are several water crossings, but they are quite easy to navigate if you have on proper hiking boots. Some sections are damp, therefore slick. The first two or three miles are uphill (from Unicoi), which was tough in 90 degree weather. I would recommend hiking this trail in the winter for better views on the ridge.

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