Georgia Highpoint
Brasstown Bald
4,784 ft · Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forests · Blue Ridge Mountains
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The summit pin marks Brasstown Bald and its observation deck. The access pin marks the main parking area below the summit, where visitors can board the seasonal shuttle or begin the paved Summit Trail.
USGS-derived Brasstown Bald summit locationStandard route
Brasstown Bald Summit Trail
Drive Georgia Spur 180 to the Brasstown Bald main parking area. From there, either ride the seasonal summit shuttle during staffed hours or follow the paved Summit Trail uphill to the visitor center, observation deck, and Georgia highpoint.
Distance
1.2 mi
Route
Out & back · seasonal shuttle available
Difficulty
Short · steep
Trailhead
Brasstown Bald main parking area
Typical hazards: Steep grade, wet or icy pavement, fallen leaves, fog, strong wind, thunderstorms, rapidly changing mountain temperatures, and winter road conditions.
The paved Summit Trail is approximately 0.6 mile each way and climbs steeply. During staffed operations, the seasonal shuttle provides an alternative for visitors who do not want to make the climb.
Brasstown Bald: summit and nearby trailsPermits & fees
2026 requirements
Regular staffed hours
Admission includes access to the recreation area and seasonal visitor services, including the summit shuttle when operating.
- Age 16+
- $10
- Age 15 and younger
- Free
After-hours day use
Outdoor access may remain available outside staffed hours when the site and road are open. Shuttle and most indoor services are unavailable.
- Age 16+
- $6
- Age 15 and younger
- Free
Access
Georgia Spur 180
Drive Georgia 180 to Georgia Spur 180 and follow the steep paved mountain road approximately three miles to the Brasstown Bald main parking area.
Main parking is below the summit.
Parking can fill during weekends, holidays, fall-color periods, and special events. The shuttle road itself is reserved for official shuttle and emergency vehicles; visitors must use the Summit Trail when traveling between parking and summit on foot.
Park amenities
- Large main parking area
- Seasonal summit shuttle
- Restrooms
- Gift shop and general store
- Picnic area
- Brasstown Bald Visitor Center
- Natural-history exhibits
- Mountain Top Theater
- Summit observation deck
Know before you go
Brasstown Bald recreation-area basics
Stay on designated trails within the recreation area.
Keep dogs leashed at all times.
Do not walk or bicycle on the summit shuttle road.
Camping and overnight stays are prohibited within the recreation area.
Use the Summit Trail rather than the shuttle road when visiting outside staffed hours.
Respect temporary weather, road, and facility closures.
Conditions
Check before leaving
Brasstown Bald can be colder, windier, foggier, and icier than surrounding valleys. Check current operating information, shuttle status, mountain weather, and road conditions before traveling.