The best walks and hikes around Cartersville
4.8
(55)
456
hikers
16
hikes
Hiking around Cartersville is characterized by rolling hills, dense forests, and routes that follow the shores of Lake Allatoona. The area's terrain offers a mix of lakeside paths and ascents to viewpoints, with trails situated in parks like Red Top Mountain State Park and Pine Mountain Recreation Area. The landscape provides a variety of hiking experiences, from relatively flat loops to more challenging climbs with significant elevation gain. The Etowah River also features trails along its banks.
Best hiking trails around Cartersville
- The most popular hiking route is Homestead Trail, a 6.4 miles (10.2 km) trail that takes about 2 hours 45 minutes to complete. This route leads through lakeside forest and offers views of Lake Allatoona.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Vineyard Mountain Trail, an easy 3.3 miles (5.3 km) path. The trail features ascents through wooded areas with views over Lake Allatoona.
- Local hikers also love the Etowah River Walk, a 3.1 miles (5.0 km) trail leading through varied terrain along the river, often completed in about 1 hour 15 minutes.
- Hiking around Cartersville is defined by lakeside trails, forested hills, and historically significant paths. The network of routes offers options for different ability levels, from easy lakeside walks to more strenuous mountain hikes.
- The routes in Cartersville are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.9 stars from more than 40 reviews. More than 350 hikers have used komoot to explore Cartersville's varied terrain.
Last updated: April 26, 2026
14
hikers
4.00km
01:04
40m
40m
The Sweet Gum Trail offers an easy hike through peaceful hardwood and pine forests, perfect for immersing yourself in nature. You will find scenic views along the lake, which are particularly beautiful when fall colors emerge or spring blooms appear. This 2.5-mile (4.0 km) route involves a gentle elevation gain of 142 feet (43 metres), making it accessible for most hikers. Expect to spend around 1 hour and 3 minutes enjoying the path, with chances for birding and spotting local wildlife.
To access the Sweet Gum Trail, you will need to pay a daily parking fee at Red Top Mountain State Park. The trailhead is conveniently located within the park, making it easy to start your adventure. If you plan to bring your dog, they are welcome on the route, but remember to keep them on a leash at all times. This ensures their safety and a pleasant experience for all other visitors enjoying the park.
Located within Red Top Mountain State Park in Georgia, the Sweet Gum Trail is known as a family-friendly path. It provides a wonderful opportunity to connect with the natural surroundings and observe the changing seasons. The trail's gentle nature makes it an ideal choice for a relaxing outdoor experience.
11
hikers
22.4km
05:57
230m
230m
Hike the difficult 13.9-mile Sweet Gum, Homestead, and Iron Hill Trail in Red Top Mountain State Park, featuring lake views and historic sit
Sign up for free
5.0
(1)
10
hikers
4.96km
01:16
20m
30m
The Etowah River Walk provides an easy hiking experience, perfect for a relaxed outing along the water. You will enjoy pleasant views of the swift-flowing Etowah River as the path winds through peaceful woodlands, offering glimpses of native vegetation and local wildlife. This accessible route covers 3.1 miles (5.0 km) with a gentle elevation gain of just 59 feet (18 metres), making it suitable for all skill levels. You can expect to complete the hike in about 1 hour and 16 minutes, allowing plenty of time to soak in the natural surroundings.
Planning your visit to the Etowah River Walk is straightforward, as the trail is easily accessible for a pleasant day out. You will find ample parking available at Etowah River Park, which serves as a convenient starting point for your adventure. The park also provides restrooms and picnic tables, making it easy to prepare for your hike or relax afterward. This makes the route a great choice for families or anyone looking for a hassle-free outdoor experience.
As you hike, you will follow the river's edge near Mound C within the significant Etowah Indian Mounds Historic Site, adding a layer of historical interest to your journey. The route also features a charming boardwalk and a wooden bridge that crosses over Puckett Creek, enhancing the scenic variety. This combination of natural beauty and cultural heritage makes the Etowah River Walk a notable trail in the Cartersville area.
5.30km
01:47
270m
210m
Hike the easy 3.3-mile Vineyard Mountain Trail in Georgia, gaining 879 feet and enjoying views of Lake Allatoona and the Allatoona Dam.
4.7
(3)
100
hikers
10.2km
02:45
120m
120m
Hike the moderate 6.4-mile Homestead Trail in Red Top Mountain State Park for lake views, forests, and wildlife along Lake Allatoona.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Tips from the Community
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.
0
0
Allatoona Lake is ideal for swimming, fishing, and boating. The lake is fed by the Etowah River. The river was dammed in 1949.
0
0
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.
0
0
The tip of a small peninsula along the shore of Lake Allatoona that has wide-reaching views and small patches of sand and silt.
0
1
Also known as "Hightower River", the Etowah River feeds Allatoona Lake. The river is over 160 miles long and was damned in 1949.
0
0
Allatoona Lake is ideal for swimming, fishing, and boating. The lake is fed by the Etowah River. The river was dammed in 1949.
1
0
Frequently Asked Questions
Are dogs allowed on the hiking trails around Cartersville?
Yes, many trails in the Cartersville area are dog-friendly, but they must be kept on a leash. Parks like Red Top Mountain State Park and Pine Mountain Recreation Area welcome dogs. Always check specific park regulations before you go and be sure to bring water for your pet.
What are the best family-friendly or easy hikes in the area?
For an easy and relatively flat walk, the Iron Hill Trail loop is a great choice. It's a 3.6-mile (5.8 km) path that follows the shore of Lake Allatoona, making it suitable for hikers of all ages and abilities.
Which trails offer the best scenic views?
For panoramic views over Lake Allatoona and the city, the trails at Pine Mountain are your best bet. The climb to the Pine Mountain Overlook is a local favorite and considered well worth the effort for the rewarding scenery at the summit.
What's the difference between hiking at Red Top Mountain and Pine Mountain?
Red Top Mountain State Park primarily offers lakeside trails with rolling hills and beautiful water views, like the Vineyard Mountain loop. Pine Mountain Recreation Area, on the other hand, provides more strenuous climbs to a summit, rewarding hikers with expansive panoramic vistas of the surrounding landscape.
Are there any long-distance hikes for a full day out?
Yes, for a more challenging, longer hike, consider the Pine Mountain Trail loop. This 8.3-mile (13.3 km) route involves a significant climb and takes around 4 hours to complete, offering a substantial day out on the trail.
Are there any hikes with waterfalls near Cartersville?
While the immediate Cartersville area is better known for its lakeside and mountain trails, you can find some smaller cascades and beautiful water features. The trail at Pine Log Creek is a popular choice for those seeking a quarry and creek-side scenery, though it's not known for large waterfalls.
Do I need to pay to hike in Cartersville?
Some of the most popular hiking areas require a fee. For example, Red Top Mountain State Park requires a daily parking pass or an annual park pass for entry. However, other areas like Pine Mountain Recreation Area are typically free to access. Always check the specific location's website for the most current fee information.
Are there any trails with historical significance?
Yes, the Allatoona Pass area offers a unique opportunity to combine hiking with history. The trails follow the path of the original Western and Atlantic Railroad and feature visible Civil War entrenchments, offering a direct connection to the region's past.
What are some good options for moderate hikes?
The area has several excellent moderate hikes. The Sweetgum Trail loop is a 6.4-mile (10.2 km) route that provides a good workout with moderate elevation changes through the forest.
Can I hike at the Etowah Indian Mounds Historic Site?
Yes, the Etowah Indian Mounds site has walking paths that allow you to explore the ancient Native American mounds and the Etowah River. The trails are more of a historical walk than a strenuous hike, offering a flat and educational outdoor experience.
What do other hikers enjoy most about the trails in Cartersville?
The hiking routes around Cartersville are highly regarded by the komoot community. Reviewers frequently praise the well-maintained trails, the beautiful views over Lake Allatoona, and the mix of challenging climbs and peaceful lakeside walks available in the region.
Are there any short, rewarding hikes?
If you're short on time but want a great view, the Pine Mountain Summit loop is an excellent option. It's a 2.4-mile (3.8 km) hike that takes you to the summit for panoramic views without requiring a full day's commitment.
Most popular attractions around Cartersville
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Browse the best Hikes in other regions.
