Pine Mountain via Coopers Furnace Trail

I'll be watching the weather closely as the date approaches. Bad weather may cancel the hike. I'll make the decision the night before. Please check the event listing before heading out.

NOTE: Previously, there is a $5 per vehicle fee at the day use area where we will be parking. I'm not sure if that's still in effect or not. I'm also unsure of whether or not cards are accepted. So please bring cash and card just in case.

Not to be confused with the much longer Pine Mountain Trail south of La Grange, GA, this other Pine Mountain is just north of Lake Allatoona and may provide some nice views of the lake and Etowah River. The approximate route we will be taking can be found here: https://www.alltrails.com/explore/trail/us/georgia/pine-mountain-via-coopers-furnace-trail

We will be hiking approximately 7.4 miles from Coopers Furnace to the summit of Pine Mountain traversing both the east and west loops along the way and gaining and losing nearly 2000+ feet of elevation as we make our way to the summit overlooking Lake Allatoona. While this doesn't look to be as challenging as some of the hikes I have lead for the group, I would still rate this a moderate to difficult trail. Please use good judgement when deciding whether or not you are up to the challenge. This is NOT a trail for beginners, as we will be hiking approximately 2.5 mph with a LOT OF ELEVATION GAIN. We'll take a short break and enjoy the views from the top.

This is NOT a guided hike and YOU are responsible for being prepared and able to keep up. We will not be slowing the group for those that are unable to maintain the listed pace, short of injury.

To reach the trail head near Coopers Furnace Day Use Area (34.164303, -84.733932) from the I-285N/I-75N Intersection:
-Head north on I-75N
-After approximately 26.5 miles, take exit 285 (Red Top Mtn Road)
-Turn left onto Red Top Mtn Road and follow it for 0.5 miles
-Take the first right after the entrance ramp from I-75S to stay on Red Top Mtn Road and follow for 0.2 miles
-Turn right onto Joe Frank Harris Parkway SE and follow for 2.1 miles
-Immediately after crossing over the Etowah River take a right, another immediate right, and then a left to drop back down to Old River Rd SE, which runs northeast along the river
-Follow Old River Rd Se for 2.7 miles to Coopers Furnace
-There are two or three small parking areas within yards of the furnace
-We will meet by the furnace site itself

We will depart promptly at 11:00 AM. We will not be waiting for those running late. I have no idea if there will be cell coverage at the trailhead and so, I won't be watching for last minute messages. Please note the completion time is approximate.

Please ensure you bring proper gear (water, poles, snacks, etc.). If you have questions prior to the hike, please feel free to message me or comment here.

Looking forward to exploring with you,
Mike