I’m going to let you in on a secret; that’s how much I like you all. The Edge of the World Trail, also known as the Amicalola River Trail or Fern City, is…in a word: Awesome. This large outcrop of rocks makes the perfect picnic place, complete with swimming hole, rock slides, and all out fun.
We’ve been visiting this spot off GA 53 in Dawsonville, Georgia, for almost eight years, and it only gets better. Here’s why it’s one of our favorite summer spots.
The Edge of the World Trail
The official address for the Edge of the World Trail is 7000 GA-53, Dawsonville, GA 30534. Once here, you’ll find a parking lot, which now includes handicapped parking, and easy river access. Viewing platforms are ADA compliant and are part of a Amicalola trail system that extends from the parking area and existing platforms downstream to Edge of the World rapids.
Please note this is a fee area (updated as of Summer 2024) – and here is the stinker: you need to have the pass before you show up! You can’t pay to park once here.
Each person ( age 16+) must posses a valid hunting license, fishing license, or Georgia Lands Pass to enter this property. There is no kiosk to pay onsite, so it must be purchased online at: gooutdoorsgeorgia.com
The good side? There are not a lot of people here!
The trail is 2.9 miles long, but I’ve never hiked the whole thing. The rocks are the draw. From the parking lot, head down the stairs to the trailhead. You’ll follow the ADA-compliant boardwalk for about a half-mile (my best guess). When the boardwalk ends, you can catch a spectacular view of the rapids from a small observation deck.
Don’t stop here. Follow the rough-terrain trail for a few hundred more feet. It will split, with the Amicalola River Trail following the top split to the left. You want to take the fork to the right in order to head to the boulders. It’s not easy…but I managed it with two small kiddos, a pack, a camera, and a lunch bag. If I can do it, you can do it!
Bring your swimsuits, a camera, and lunch. Don’t bring alcohol; don’t ask me how I know this law. It was a costly mistake.
Dogs are welcome, but must be on a leash. Happy hiking!
Edge Of The World Trail FAQ
How long is the Edge of the World Trail in Dawsonville?
The Edge of the World Trail has a 0.5-mile long boardwalk (one way) and also a 2.5-mile loop trail through the woods to enjoy.
What is the longest trail in Georgia?
The longest trail in Georgia is the Pinhoti Trail, which runs through Alabama and Georgia. The Georgia section of the trail is 167 miles, making it the longest trail in the state. The well-known Appalachian Trail gets its start in Georgia, but only 78.2 miles of the 2,190+ miles of the trail pass through GA.
What is the most difficult hiking trail in Georgia?
There are many trails that are considered difficult in Georgia, but one of the most well-known is the 60-mile Georgia Loop Trail in the Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest. The Georgia Loop Trail near Suches, Georgia, is considered one of the toughest.
MORE INFORMATION FOR YOUR TRIP TO GEORGIA
- YOUR GEORGIA VACATION
- AMICALOLA FALLS: Amicalola Falls: Everything You Need To Know About Hiking the Beautiful Falls
- NORTH GA CAMPGROUNDS: 39+ of the Best Campgrounds in North Ga
- KAYAKING: Kayaking in Georgia: 23+ Unbeatable Spots for Paddlers To Launch
- GEORGIA STATE PARKS CAMPING: 52+ Essential Things To Know
Where To Stay In Dawsonville
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