Adventure Out Blue Hole, High Shoals and Tray Mountain Summit

By Peter McIntosh

On this adventure we’re going to do another of what I call a “house special,” a visit to a couple of nice waterfalls, followed by a hike to a mountaintop with beautiful views. The waterfalls and the mountaintop are all part of Tray Mountain, which is the big mountain you see off in the distance if you’re coming out of Clayton on 76 West. And from the top of Trey Mountain, you can look east and see Timpson Cove on Lake Burton.

First, the waterfalls, Blue Hole and High Shoals. From the trailhead (there’s a sign reading “High Shoals 1.2 miles) you’ll descend on switchbacks for about ½ mile before reaching High Shoals Creek. After crossing a bridge you descend more gently with the stream on your left. Further down will be the side trail on the left leading to the first waterfall, Blue Hole. There are viewing platforms at both waterfalls so please enjoy the view from there. Waterfalls are slippery and dangerous. Please don’t climb on waterfalls.

Heading back up to the main trail we continue descending, a bit more steeply now, to the next side trail on the left, leading to another observation deck. This is High Shoals and if the weather’s warm you enjoy a nice misty breeze. Relax, take a break, have a snack and get ready to head back uphill.

Peter McIntosh is an accomplished professional photographer. His photography is displayed in collections across the country. His passion for nature and the outdoors is what fuels his column. His work is available as fine art prints. Peter offers one on one and small group instruction on camera operation and photography. To see more of Peter’s photos, or if you have a question or comment, visit Peter’s website: www.mcintoshmountains.com

From the High Shoals Trailhead it’s a little less than 5 miles on well maintained forest service roads to Tray Gap, where we’ll hike up the Appalachian Trail, about 1 mile, to the top of Tray Mountain. From Tray Gap the trail ascends gently along the southwest side of the mountain before turning to the left for a few long but easy switchbacks which traverse the western side of Tray. About halfway up the trail there’s a strategically located dead tree lying on its side on your right, the perfect spot to sit down and take a break.

The trail now begins to curve around slowly to the north side of the mountain. Just at the spot where the trail turns sharply right, there’s a rocky overlook facing almost due north. From here you can get a glimpse of Lake Chatuge. The short scrub oaks now indicate you’re nearing the top, just a little bit further. Upon reaching the rocky summit you’re rewarded with spectacular views to the north and south, the view to the east is just past the summit. Looking north, you can see Georgia’s highest mountain, Brasstown Bald, that’s the mountain with the tower on the top, there’s also Bell Mountain (the visible white quartz on top), Hightower Bald, Lake Chatuge and White Oak Stamp. Off in the distance, you can see North Carolina’s beautiful Snowbird Mountains. Looking south, the most prominent landmark is the uniquely shaped Mount Yonah. And now let’s look east toward our beloved Rabun County. The body of water you see is Timpson Cove on Lake Burton. To the right of the lake is Charlie Mountain with Glassy Mountain right behind it. And on the left, some distance away, majestically stands Rabun Bald. I love Tray Mountain.

Happy hiking!

So the spring birds now start to sing, my March poem I here do bring: As the cold days of winter now start to fade, We’re going to visit a pair of cascades. Then up the AT through some high mountain greenery, To the top of Tray Mountain with spectacular scenery.

Getting there: From Burton Dam Road and GA 197 go south 3 miles on Hwy 197 to GA 356. Turn right on 356 and go 11 miles. The road ends at GA 17–75. Turn right on GA 17–75, go 10 miles, over Unicoi Gap, to Forest Service Road 283. This is a very sharp right turn, almost a U-turn, so be careful. Just off the highway FS 283 fords a small stream, it’s actually the Hiawassee River but no four wheel drive is necessary. The High Shoals trailhead is on the left, 1.3 miles from the highway. Look for bear proof trash cans.

To the Appalachian Trail at Trey Gap, continue on FS 283 for 2.8 miles to FS 79. The road crosses the A.T. twice before Trey Gap. On FS 79, it’s less than 2 miles to Trey Gap. Remember the road you came in on because there are two other roads here. Returning, you can stay on FS 79 and join GA 17–75 a bit north of Robertstown and the junction with Hwy 356.

To see more of Peter’s photos or if you have a question or comment: www.mcintoshmountains.com