11
hikers
Sweet Gum, Homestead and Iron Hill Trail
05:57
22.4km
230m
Hiking
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
Last updated: February 26, 2026
Waypoints
Start point
Parking
Get Directions
18.5 km
Allatoona Lake
Highlight • Lake
Tip by
19.0 km
Iron Hill Trail
Highlight • Trail
Tip by
22.4 km
End point
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
10.2 km
9.77 km
1.50 km
875 m
Surfaces
9.73 km
9.49 km
1.26 km
1.04 km
884 m
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Elevation
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Weather
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Today
Thursday 21 May
27°C
20°C
78 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 5.0 km/h
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This route was planned by komoot.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the Sweet Gum, Homestead and Iron Hill Trail located?
This trail system is located within Red Top Mountain State Park in Emerson, Bartow County, Georgia. Parking is available within the state park, providing access to the various trailheads.
What is the terrain like on this trail system?
The trails are generally considered easy to moderate, featuring soft, wide, non-technical, and gently rolling paths. Surfaces are primarily compacted soil or gravel. While there are no sustained steep inclines, some sections, particularly on the Homestead Trail, offer gradual ascents and descents. The Iron Hill Trail is wide and graveled, including charming wooden bridges.
Is the Sweet Gum, Homestead and Iron Hill Trail dog-friendly?
Yes, leashed dogs are welcome on both the Iron Hill and Homestead trails within Red Top Mountain State Park.
When is the best time of year to hike this trail?
The trails offer beauty year-round. For unique views of Lake Allatoona, consider hiking during the winter months (October to March) when the lake's water level is lowered, providing additional access to the shoreline.
Are there any fees or permits required to hike in Red Top Mountain State Park?
Yes, Red Top Mountain State Park typically requires an entrance fee or a Georgia State Park Pass for vehicle entry. It's advisable to check the park's official website for current fee structures and permit requirements before your visit.
What kind of scenery and points of interest can I expect?
You'll hike through shaded hardwood forests, encounter small spring-fed streams, and enjoy frequent, stunning views of Lake Allatoona. The Iron Hill Trail notably meanders along the lake for much of its length. The area also has historical significance; the park is named for its high iron-ore content, and the Iron Hill Trail circles a historic 1800s iron mine site. The Homestead Trail is named after former homesteads, and the park features a reconstructed 1860s homestead.
Can I combine sections of the Sweet Gum, Homestead, and Iron Hill Trails for a longer hike?
Absolutely. These trails often intertwine, allowing hikers to create various loop combinations for longer excursions. A common combined loop is around 19.1 km (11.8 miles).
How well-marked are the trails?
The trails are generally well-maintained and clearly marked with blazes. The Homestead Trail uses yellow blazes, the Sweet Gum Trail uses red blazes, and the Iron Hill Trail is marked with blue blazes.
Is the trail suitable for cycling?
While the Homestead and Sweet Gum trails are typically not accessible to bicycles, the Iron Hill Trail is open to both hikers and cyclists.
What kind of wildlife might I see on the trail?
The trails offer opportunities to observe local wildlife, such as deer, especially along the Homestead Trail.
Does the route intersect other well-known paths?
Yes, the route also passes through sections of the Homestead Trail and the Iron Hill Trail.