Recreation
Get out and explore the Georgia Appalachian Trail through the many activities we host each year.
Georgia Appalachian Trail Club hosts more than 100 activities each year for club members and prospective members. Pre-registration is required, as some locations limit the number of daily visitors.
View EventsDay Hikes
Experienced GATC members lead about 70 day hikes each year. Every year, a series of day hikes is offered to provide members with the chance to hike the entire A.T. in Georgia. We hike the Benton MacKaye Trail in Georgia via a series of ten monthly day hikes. Each month’s activities range from leisurely hikes to challenging day hikes, maybe to one of the summits of a 4000-foot peak in Georgia or to a remote location on a longer, more difficult trail. GATC members lead day hikes on a variety of trails throughout Georgia, Tennessee, North Carolina, and South Carolina; as well as a series of in-town hikes closer to the Atlanta metropolitan area. Day hikes just for women and families are available, as well, providing members with a wide range of day hiking opportunities every month.
Backpacking Trips
These overnight excursions, led by experienced GATC volunteers, feature two and three-day trips on the Georgia Appalachian Trail or on a variety of other trails in the region. Each trip is rated according to distance, pace and terrain, so you’ll have a good idea what to expect once you’re on the trail. If you’re new to backpacking or need to brush up on your skills, be sure to check out our annual backpacking clinics.
Biking
The Silver Comet Trail and other rail-to-trail paved pathways, provide recreational opportunities for members and guests. Enjoy these group bike rides that avoid cars and steep hills, while offering a great way to increase your cycling skills. You decide how many miles you want to ride and whether you want to participate in a possible overnight camping option.
Other Activities
GATC offers a variety of other activities through the year that include in-town walks and historical tours, photography trips and other social and business gatherings.