The best walks and hikes in Bartow County
4.9
(57)
490
hikers
19
hikes
Hikes in Bartow County explore the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains in northwest Georgia. The landscape is characterized by rolling hills, dense woodlands, and prominent water features like Lake Allatoona and the Etowah River. The trail network offers routes ranging from level lakeside paths to more challenging ascents on local peaks.
Best hiking trails in Bartow County
- The most popular hiking route is Iron Hill Trail loop — Red Top Mountain State Park, a 3.6 mile (5.8 km) trail…
Last updated: April 26, 2026
14
hikers
4.00km
01:04
40m
40m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
11
hikers
22.4km
05:57
230m
230m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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5.0
(1)
10
hikers
4.96km
01:16
20m
30m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
1
hikers
1.94km
00:31
20m
20m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.30km
01:47
270m
210m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
1.05km
00:17
20m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(3)
100
hikers
10.2km
02:45
120m
120m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
(13)
87
hikers
5.79km
01:30
30m
30m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(18)
45
hikers
3.84km
01:14
170m
170m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
25
hikers
13.3km
04:01
440m
440m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
During my hike along the Pine Mountain Laurel Ridge Trail, I passed an impressive feat of engineering and nature: the Allatoona Dam. The contrast between the massive concrete and the calm waters of Lake Allatoona was immediately striking. As I walked along the dam, I felt the power of the water being controlled here—a quiet reminder of how man and nature can complement each other. The view of the lake was breathtaking. The reflection of the trees on the water's surface, the gentle breeze, and the sound of birdsong created a moment of tranquility. A moment to pause, take a deep breath, and simply enjoy the moment.
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Iron Hill Trail is a moderate four-mile loop in Red Top Mountain State Park, located about half a mile past the campground on Red Top Mountain Road. This gravel trail is open to both hikers and bikers, offering a scenic path along the banks of Lake Allatoona through an area once home to a 19th-century iron mining community. Dogs are welcome but must be leashed at all times.
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A furnace from the 1830s that was used for iron smelting. It is now some of the last remnants of what was once the town of Etowah, Georgia.
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A large concrete dam that aids in flood control and hydropower generation. It was built in 1946.
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Allatoona Lake is ideal for swimming, fishing, and boating. The lake is fed by the Etowah River. The river was dammed in 1949.
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The best time to hike this mountain is in the winter when the leaves are off the trees. It will allow for better views of Allatoona Lake, as well as Allatoona Dam.
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A 675-foot summit that offers views of Lake Allatoona. On clear days, you can see Atlanta's skyline in the distance.
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A furnace from the 1830s that was used for iron smelting. It is now some of the last remnants of what was once the town of Etowah, Georgia.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are there any easy, flat walking trails in Bartow County?
Yes, for a very gentle and flat walk, the Dellinger Park loop — Cartersville is an excellent choice. It's a paved path just over 2 miles (3.3 km) long within a park setting, making it perfect for a leisurely stroll.
What are the options for a challenging hike in the area?
For a strenuous workout, the Allatoona Lake – Iron Hill Trail loop from Emerson offers a long and demanding trek of over 12 miles (19 km). It combines distance with elevation gain, providing a significant challenge for experienced hikers.
Can I bring my dog on the hiking trails?
Most trails in Bartow County, including those in Red Top Mountain State Park and Pine Mountain Recreation Area, are dog-friendly. However, dogs must be kept on a leash no longer than 6 feet at all times. Always bring water for your pet and be prepared to clean up after them.
Are there any good hikes for families with children?
The Etowah River Overlook loop from Emerson is a great option for a family outing. It's a relatively short and easy walk with minimal elevation, offering pleasant views of the river without being too strenuous for younger hikers.
Which trail offers the best views of Lake Allatoona?
For panoramic views over Lake Allatoona, the Pine Mountain Summit loop — Cartersville is a fantastic choice. This short but steep hike rewards you with a stunning vista from the 675-foot summit, which is highly regarded by local hikers.
Are there any hiking trails with waterfalls in Bartow County?
While the region is known for its beautiful lakes and rivers, prominent waterfalls are not a common feature on the main hiking trails in Bartow County. For a scenic water feature, consider a trail near the historic rock quarry pond on the Pine Log Creek Trail.
What should I wear for a summer hike in Georgia?
Summer in Georgia is hot and humid. Wear lightweight, moisture-wicking clothing and a hat for sun protection. Sturdy, breathable hiking shoes are essential. Always carry more water than you think you'll need, and apply insect repellent, as ticks and mosquitoes are common.
Are most of the hiking trails circular loops?
Yes, many of the popular trails in Bartow County are loops, which makes logistics easy as you start and end at the same point. Routes like the Vineyard Mountain loop and the Hiking loop from Belaire are great examples of circular hikes that allow you to explore an area without backtracking.
What do other hikers enjoy about the trails in Bartow County?
The trails in Bartow County are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.9 stars. Hikers frequently praise the well-maintained paths, the beautiful lakeside scenery around Lake Allatoona, and the mix of tranquil woodland walks and rewarding summit views.
Is there an entrance fee for hiking in the state parks?
Yes, to access trails within Red Top Mountain State Park, you will need to pay a daily parking fee or display a valid annual Georgia State Parks Pass (ParkPass). Other recreation areas like Pine Mountain may have their own fee structures, so it's best to have cash or a card on hand.
How many hiking trails are available in Bartow County?
You can find a great selection of trails in the area. This guide highlights 10 distinct routes, but the broader region offers over 40 miles of trails catering to all abilities, from easy lakeside strolls to challenging mountain climbs.
Most popular routes in Bartow County
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