Bartram Trail

The Bartram Trail is a long-distance hiking route through the southern Appalachians, spanning about 112 miles between Russell Bridge, GA and Cheoah Bald, NC. It largely follows the path of 18th-century naturalist William Bartram on his southern travels from 1773 to 1777.

The route runs as a two-state hike: Georgia and North Carolina are treated as distinct sections, and the North Carolina section ends at the Appalachian Trail on Cheoah/Wayah Bald area. The trail’s highest point is Wayah Bald (about 5,385 ft) and the low point is the Chattooga River (about 1,500 ft).

Expect a corridor that alternates between ridge and knob terrain and lower stretches near rivers and creeks, with enough elevation gain/loss to make navigation, pacing, and hydration planning matter over the full distance.

Water features are a recurring theme along the trail system, with multiple named creeks and falls used as reference points on published guides for both sections.

Trail management is shared by the U.S. Forest Service and regional Bartram Trail organizations that focus on marking and maintaining the route corridor and blazes across the two states.

For planning and on-trail execution, use section-by-section maps and guides rather than relying on a single all-in-one chart, since the two sections are published/handled separately and mileage points are organized that way.

Because the trail experiences frequent rainfall typical of the southern Appalachians, plan for wet feet at some point on nearly any attempt; if weather is breaking or thunderstorms are in the forecast, prioritize route timing and be ready for reduced visibility on ridges and slick footing in drainage areas.

For logistics, the route passes directly through Franklin, NC for resupply, and it also includes road-walk connections in parts of the journey where camping may be limited—so map your preferred overnight locations and water carry before you start the hike.

More information: Conditions, Wikipedia, Bartram Trail Backpacking Guide | The Hiking Life