Pinhoti Trail: Snake Creek Gap to Dug Gap
Hiking Trail
Hard
15.7 mi
2,660 ft
A series of rocky ridge traverses with excellent views—perfect for day hiking.
This is arguably the most renowned portion of the 330-mile-long Pinhoti Trail. Popular day hikes are accessible from either trailhead, and the segment is perfect for a shuttled hike. Overnight camping options are also available along this segment, though there are no developed campgrounds.
Snake Creek Gap, the southern terminus for this segment, boasts a large parking area with vault toilets— but no water. Just three miles along the trail, you'll approach a high point atop Mill Creek Mountain. Along the way, enjoy the series of views looking west towards nearby Villanow. Continuing north, the groomed singletrack begins to intermingle with more rugged, rocky terrain.
Continuing north, the Pinhoti traverses the talus ridges of Middle Mountain and Hurricane Mountain. Deep streams and low valleys intermingle with the higher peaks. In the winter, the water can be frigid and deep, requiring you to get your feet wet. In the summer, the streams may be no more than standing water.
The northern terminus for this segment is Dug Gap. Parking is available along the road, with additional parking available at the Dalton Convention Center. For an excellent short hike, head south on the Pinhoti, following an access road to the radio towers atop Dug Mountain. Popular among locals, there are a few vistas to the west, making this an excellent evening hike and place to enjoy the sunset. Written by Brendon Voelker
This is arguably the most renowned portion of the 330-mile-long Pinhoti Trail. Popular day hikes are accessible from either trailhead, and the segment is perfect for a shuttled hike. Overnight camping options are also available along this segment, though there are no developed campgrounds.
Snake Creek Gap, the southern terminus for this segment, boasts a large parking area with vault toilets— but no water. Just three miles along the trail, you'll approach a high point atop Mill Creek Mountain. Along the way, enjoy the series of views looking west towards nearby Villanow. Continuing north, the groomed singletrack begins to intermingle with more rugged, rocky terrain.
Continuing north, the Pinhoti traverses the talus ridges of Middle Mountain and Hurricane Mountain. Deep streams and low valleys intermingle with the higher peaks. In the winter, the water can be frigid and deep, requiring you to get your feet wet. In the summer, the streams may be no more than standing water.
The northern terminus for this segment is Dug Gap. Parking is available along the road, with additional parking available at the Dalton Convention Center. For an excellent short hike, head south on the Pinhoti, following an access road to the radio towers atop Dug Mountain. Popular among locals, there are a few vistas to the west, making this an excellent evening hike and place to enjoy the sunset. Written by Brendon Voelker
Created By
Strava Routes
Route and Elevation
Segments
| Name | Distance | Elev. Diff. | Avg. Grade |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hurricane Rd Climb | 0.62 mi | 138 ft | 4.2% |
| Dug Gap Mountain Rd Climb | 0.30 mi | 151 ft | 9.4% |