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A moderate trail with plenty of amazing views to reward you for your effort! It is especially stunning in the fall.


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Map Key

3.9

Miles

6.2

KM

Loop

1,660' 506 m

High

1,212' 369 m

Low

502' 153 m

Up

502' 153 m

Down

5%

Avg Grade (3°)

12%

Max Grade (7°)

Dogs No Dogs

Features Birding · Fall Colors · Views · Wildflowers

Overview

The Indian Seats Loop of the Sawnee Mountain Preserve is a moderate, breathtaking hike to an overlook of the Blue Ridge Mountains. A side trail at the highest point in the trail leads off to a wooden observation deck, plenty of rocky outcrops with their own picturesque views, and many trees to choose from for hammocking.

Description

If you’re looking for a four-mile, moderate workout, begin at the visitor center and hike the loop clockwise. Or for a milder way to the top, take it counterclockwise. On the way up, peer past barred tunnels into old abandoned gold mines. The loop is four miles long with two parking lots to choose from and a few well-marked connector trails which allow you to customize your hike to the length and section that is right for your group.

The path is very well maintained and a great hike. The loop is well marked, and if you aren’t in the mood for the full four miles, take any of the connector trails to make it a bit shorter. The shortest possible way to get the view is by parking in the southern parking lot (not the visitor center’s lot), and take the trail counter-clockwise right up to the top. I recommend using the Yucca Trail - Yellow Blazes to make a small loop for yourself back to the parking lot.

Sawnee Mountain Preserve’s Indian Seats Trail is a breathtaking loop absolutely worth the visit. Be sure to stop by before the fall leaves are gone and bring the whole family in the fall to capture your holiday card photo with a backdrop of 20-miles of changing leaves between you and the North Georgia Mountains in the distance.

History & Background

At one time, the entire mountain was clear cut during mining operations. Go to the nature center on Spot Road for more info. Also, there is a sign at the top of the mountain describing its role in the Trail of Tears.

Contacts

Shared By:

Heather Pruner

Trail Ratings

  4.1 from 24 votes

#756

Overall
  4.1 from 24 votes
5 Star
29%
4 Star
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3 Star
17%
2 Star
0%
1 Star
0%
Recommended Route Rankings

#12

in Georgia

#756

Overall
47 Views Last Month
10,140 Since Nov 30, 2017
Intermediate Intermediate

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Photos

Early morning sun.
Nov 20, 2016 near Cumming, GA
Fall colors with smoke from wildfire.
Nov 20, 2016 near Cumming, GA
The trail
Mar 12, 2021 near Cumming, GA
From the Indian Seats
Mar 12, 2021 near Cumming, GA
Indian Seats
Mar 12, 2021 near Cumming, GA
The Indian Seats atop Sawnee Mountain
Mar 5, 2020 near Cumming, GA

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