Bartram Trail Guides

by John R. Ray and Malcolm J. Skove

I am very glad that the first Bartram Trail Guide to hit the shelves has John and Malcolm's name on it. They know and love this trail. When I last spoke to John he was getting ready to work on the extensive reconditioning that the trail is undergoing. -- new bridges, water bars, and some minor rerouting to improve the trail. He was also putting new plastic blazes to help mark the route for others.

The Georgia guide begins with an introduction of William Bartram and the Bartram Trail, then an overview of the trail. My wife and I have always enjoyed this trail, especially the view from Rabun Bald (but not the climb up) and the section along the Chattooga River. But the whole trail is great --always something around the corner.

The detail on the mileage is great. They give the mileage both ways so if you start at Russell Bridge and end at Hale Ridge Road you can still use this book. The sections are broken down as follows:

• Russell Bridge to Sandy Ford Road (9.5 miles)
• Sandy Ford Road to Warwoman Dell (9.3 miles)
• Warwoman Dell to Wilson Gap (8.3 miles)
• Wilson Gap to GA/NC Border near Hale Ridge Road (9.2 miles)

The book is light and will fit comfortably in a backpack. GeorgiaTrails.com recommends this book for anybody hiking the Bartram Trail in Georgia. John and Malcolm have a second book available for enthusiasts who wish to hike the North Carolina portion of the trail as well.

To order either guide (or other books), get more information at:

Bartram Trail Guides.