The Iconic Trail in Georgia Everyone Should Hike Once in Their Lifetime

Adventuring to a historic site is a great way to learn about history while reaping the benefits of the trek. Luckily, Georgia has numerous historic sites that preserve and honor the important places in the state's history. Of critical importance is Georgia's indigenous sites. Many tribes lived in the region, including Cherokee, Creek, Guale, Yamasee, Timucua, Hitchiti, Oconee, Apalachee, and Miccosukee.

The Etowah Indian Mounds Interpretive and River Walk Trails is a fantastic hiking trail near Cartersville, Georgia, that honors the Indigenous people of the Mississippian culture who lived near the Etowah River. This easy one-mile hike is not only educational, but the trek has rewards and adventures along the way. Bring the kids and dog (on leash) to explore this iconic trail in Georgia. I promise, it will be a once-in-a-lifetime experience that you won’t forget. 

At one mile long, this is an easy hiking trail in Georgia, and the relatively short loop has very little elevation gain. It is family-friendly, open year-round, and features some historical sites along the way. It starts at the Etowah Indian Mounds Historic Site Museum, with a parking lot for visitors. From there, hikers travel southeast to the Etowah River. Following the river, you'll see beautiful water views. As an outdoor enthusiast who enjoys nature, hiking along picturesque waterways always elevates my mood. These are the spots where I typically stop to rest and soak up the beauty, and you should, too.

Aside from the tranquil river, you can also enjoy birdwatching and wildflowers in spring and summer. If you visit in the fall or winter, seeing the foliage here is always a nice way to welcome the colder season. After following the river, the trail continues north for more scenic views.  

The loop trail circles an area once home to thousands of indigenous people from 1000 to 1550 A.D. On the 54-acre property, visitors can climb atop the earthen mounds, which were immensely significant to the community members who lived here.

Expect to see a total of six mounds on the property. One mound was dedicated to the burials of noble persons, and another was likely where the priest chief lived. The largest mound is an incredible 65 feet tall. Keep in mind, you must climb more than 100 steps to the top to enjoy an astonishing view of the property below. But have no worries, the reward is worth every step that you'll take.

In addition to walking the trail and visiting the mounds, you can enjoy the site's picnic tables and riverside benches. You'll also find a bathroom and a gift shop on the property. There is a small entry fee to access the grounds, which is paid at the gift shop. Between the scenic river, the ancient earthen mounds, and their historical significance, this iconic hike in Georgia belongs on your list.

Have you visited the Etowah Indian Mounds Historic Site? What is your favorite trail in Georgia connected to the region's history? Share it with us on our nomination page.

For more information, visit the Etowah Indian Mounds Historic Site webpage and the AllTrails listing for the Etowah Indian Mounds Interpretive and River Walk Trails.

Cartersville, Georgia, is home to about 23,000 people. The lovely city is known as the Museum City of Georgia, with incredible museums like the Booth Western Art Museum and Tellus Science Museum. It's also home to the Pine Mountain Recreation Area, which hosts a monthly moonlit hike to Allatoona Lake and a lookout over the Etowah River Valley. Be sure to check out these adventures and attractions while you're here.

Before setting out on your next historic hike in the Peach State, peruse our list of must-have hiking supplies. And when you're feeling inspired, use Only In Your State’s itinerary planner to customize your own adventure in Georgia.