Panther Creek Trail (Starting at Three Forks Trailhead)

Anyone who’s reached Panther Creek Falls from the top knows it offers one of the most rewarding views in the Cohuttas—standing above the falls, with water plunging away below you, is something special. On Saturday, April 4, join CDTV as we head down the East Cowpen Trail from the Three Forks Trailhead to the Panther Creek Trail junction, where we’ll get to work. Our focus will be clearing brush, branches, and fallen trees to keep this well-loved route open and easier to navigate as spring growth ramps up.

We’ll meet at 9:00 am at the Three Forks Trailhead and plan for approximately 6–7 miles round-trip over moderate terrain, combining steady hiking with meaningful hands-on trail work—all leading to one of the most iconic spots in the wilderness.

What to Bring:

• Enough food and water for the day, including a light lunch and a backpack to carry your supplies/food;
• Work gloves and a safety whistle;
• Sturdy boots and appropriate layers of clothing are required for the task at hand (long pants are required; long-sleeve shirts are recommended due to the potential for thorns or other natural hazards).
• Food, snacks, or soft drinks to share with the group for our post-work tailgate back at the trailhead parking area – and a lawn chair if you would like, for relaxing!

Other trail-clearing tools & safety gear, such as hard hats & protective eyewear, will be
provided.
Email Robert at [RAEhiker@gmail.com](mailto:RAEhiker@gmail.com) if you have any questions or want to meet outside of the wilderness and carpool/caravan.

Directions:
From Chatsworth:

-From Chatsworth at the Hardee’s on Highway 411, travel on Highway 411 north approximately 3 miles to Eton, GA.

-Turn right at the traffic light onto CCC Road.

-Drive about 10.3 miles on CCC Road, which eventually turns into graveled Forest Road 18.

-Turn left onto Forest Road 68 (following the signs to Lake Conasauga).

-Drive about 5.7 miles to the T-intersection with Forest Road 64 and turn right on FS 64.

-Drive about 4.4 miles and turn left at the sharp curve into the Three-Forks trailhead.
From Ellijay:

-From the square in Ellijay, stay on Hwy 52 west for approximately 5 miles and turn right onto Gates Chapel Road.

-Drive about 5.7 miles until pavement ends and turn right onto Forest Road 90.

-Go to the stop sign, then turn right onto Forest Road 68

-Drive about 3.3 miles to the T-intersection with Forest Road 64 and turn right on FS 64.

-Drive about 4.4 miles and turn left at the sharp curve into the Three-Forks trailhead.