Date: 08/12/2025
Name: Bartram Trail Rabun Bald from Hale Ridge Road
Distance: 6.1
Difficulty: Moderate
Total Climbing Elevation: 1,631
Type: One-Way
Notes: Despite high humidity from overnight rains, the cloudy skies and mild, 74°F to 68°F, temperatures were welcome. Although wet, the trails were in very good condition with no obstructions and several bridges for easy crossing drainage swales. Instead of starting from Beegum Gap, this was one-way hike added a 2.5-mile section of the Bartram Trail to the start of the hike. This first trail section has a soft trail bed with a gradual incline leading to the steeper and final 1.7-mile ascent to Rabun Bald. The latter section of trail was more rocky and wet due to its much heavier use. The views from Rabun Bald were limited by low clouds and fog in the valleys with just a bit of a view as we finished up our visit there. There were plenty of mushrooms. Late season wildflowers were a bit sparse. This is a moderately difficult hike due to the total elevation gain and final trail conditions. Today's Hikers: Jack Treadman, Matt Henderson & Toby, Jane Voss, Jenny Bell, Paige Watson, Gerald Richardson & Mike Bell
AllTrails Link: Bartram Trail Rabun Bald from Hale Ridge Road near Sky Valley, NC
Additional Search Terms: August