Cohutta Wilderness Area spans over the states of Georgia and Tennessee, offering a rugged expanse perfect for hiking enthusiasts and nature lovers seeking solitude and challenge.
Wilderness Area37,0004+ Trails
1975WILDERNESS AREA
Designation
Wilderness Area
Total Wilderness Area
37,000
Elevation / Terrain
Diverse Wilderness
Field Editorial Guide
About Cohutta Wilderness Area
Cohutta Wilderness Area spans over the states of Georgia and Tennessee, offering a rugged expanse perfect for hiking enthusiasts and nature lovers seeking solitude and challenge.
Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage
The Cohutta Wilderness Area, located in the Chattahoochee National Forest in Georgia and the Cherokee National Forest in Tennessee, covers approximately 37,000 acres of mountainous terrain. Known for its diverse ecosystems, the area is characterized by dense forests, clear streams, and rocky ridges. Historically, the land has been used for logging and farming until it was given protected status. The wilderness is renowned for its network of trails, offering challenging hikes through scenic landscapes, such as the Conasauga River and Jacks River, both popular for trout fishing. Wildlife is abundant, with sightings of black bears, deer, and various bird species providing a draw for wildlife enthusiasts. The area's seclusion adds to its appeal, inviting those looking for a true backcountry experience. With no roads or permanent infrastructure, the Cohutta Wilderness remains a pristine example of Appalachia's wilds.
Field Guide · Wilderness Area
Adventure Destinations
Notable Destinations Near Cohutta Wilderness Area
Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 30 miles.
Explore Big Frog Wilderness in Copperhill, TN, featuring hiking trails through dense forests and scenic views from Big Frog Mountain. Enjoy wildlife viewing and fishing, with trails ranging from moderate to challenging. Best visited in spring and fall for mild weather.
Explore the extensive trail network in Cohutta Wilderness Trailheads, just near Cisco, GA. Perfect for hiking and fishing, the area offers diverse wildlife and serene views. Enjoy adventurous river crossings, but prepare for challenging hikes.
Explore Ron Henry Horseshoe Bend Park in Mineral Bluff, GA, featuring easy access to the scenic Toccoa River. Enjoy fishing, kayaking, and picturesque picnics in a tranquil setting. Best visited in spring and fall for relaxed family-friendly outings.
Explore over 36,000 acres in Cohutta Wilderness, a top spot for hiking with options for snorkeling and wildlife observation. Visit famous Jack's River Trail with its river crossings and waterfalls, or seek the tranquility of Panther Creek Falls. Best visited in spring or fall for tranquility.
Visit Conasauga Lake in Georgia, known for its clear water and forested surroundings. Ideal for easy kayaking and fishing, this serene lake offers activities like birding and peaceful nature trails.
Experience the Chilhowee Mountain Overlook in Benton, TN. Ideal for photography, this scenic drive-in spot offers mesmerizing views of Cherokee National Forest, especially in spring and fall. Enjoy hiking and picnicking at this serene location popular with nature lovers.
✦ Jacks River Falls - A popular destination featuring a stunning waterfall accessible via a challenging hike.✦ Conasauga River - Known for clear waters and excellent opportunities for trout fishing.✦ Hickory Creek Trail - A less-traveled path offering solitude and backcountry camping.✦ Big Frog Mountain - Offers panoramic views of the surrounding wilderness and a challenging summit experience.
Wilderness Visuals & Gallery
Visual Guide to Cohutta Wilderness Area
View photo
Wilderness Recreation
Outdoor Adventures in Cohutta Wilderness Area
Explore curated guides for top outdoor sports, trail networks, and wilderness activities.
The Ranger Station
Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning
Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Cohutta Wilderness Area.
Passes & Fees
Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes
No fees, but group permits required for parties over 75.
Wilderness Checklist
Carry paper topographic map & compass in remote zones.
Store all food and scented items in approved bear canisters.
Check wildfire / smoke advisories before backcountry departure.
Pack out everything you pack in (Leave No Trace).
Wilderness Stays
Camping & Overnight Stays in Cohutta Wilderness Area
Frontcountry developed campgrounds, backcountry wilderness permit guidelines, and starry-night camping advice.
Hickory Creek Trail Camps
Remote and dispersed backcountry campsites along the Hickory Creek Trail.
Ready for a full day of whitewater thrill? Join Adventures Unlimited on the Ocoee River for an adrenaline-packed adventure through powerful rapids, scenic canyon views, and a gourmet lunch. This trip is perfect for those seeking a memorable outdoor experience.
Experience the rush of class IV rapids on the Ocoee River with Adventures Unlimited’s Full Deluxe Trip. Whether you’re an avid paddler or a first-timer, this guided adventure offers the perfect mix of challenge, scenery, and fun. Enjoy expert guiding, stunning geological formations, and the chance to paddle through some of the most famous rapids in the Southeast—an adventure that leaves lasting memories.
The trip’s highlight is the Olympic Course, a technical and exhilarating section of river renowned for its powerful currents and iconic rapids. Before heading back into the water, guests indulge in a delicious, gourmet lunch overlooking the canyon, soaking in the vibrant natural surroundings. The Ocoee River’s mix of rugged cliffs, lush vegetation, and rushing water makes it a standout destination for thrill-seekers.
Adventures Unlimited’s commitment to safety and sustainability ensures a responsible adventure that balances excitement with respect for the environment. Suitable for participants in good physical shape, the trip lasts around 6-8 hours, offering a comprehensive day of whitewater fun. Gear and instruction are provided, making this experience accessible to people of varied skill levels.
In addition to the rapids, the area offers lesser-known gems like the historic Ocoee Whitewater Center and quiet riverbank scenes brimming with local wildlife—perfect for photography or just soaking in the scenery. Stay prepared with quick-drying clothing, waterproof cameras, and sturdy footwear. Embark on this journey and discover why the Ocoee River remains a top destination for outdoor adventure in the southeastern U.S.
Discover a cozy lakeside cabin at Carters Lake Marina & Resort, perfect for family adventures in the Georgia Mountains. Enjoy boating, hiking, and breathtaking sunsets from this charming retreat.
Paddle independently down six miles of the scenic Toccoa River near Mineral Bluff, Georgia. Enjoy a leisurely 2–3 hour kayak trip with expert-prepared maps and a quick return shuttle.
Make a splash with a private 25' pontoon boat and waterslide at Carters Lake. Spend hours exploring Georgia’s beautiful lake with your family or friends.
Experience the thrill of tubing down the Lower Ocoee River with Outdoor Adventure Rafting. Perfect for families and friends, this fun-filled trip offers scenic views and lively rapids—an unforgettable Tennessee adventure.
Discover the peaceful comfort of Bear’s Den Cabin by Adventures Unlimited in Ocoee. Nestled among Tennessee’s lush woods, this retreat offers a perfect base for outdoor adventures and relaxation alike.
Enjoy a family stay with stunning lake and mountain views at Carters Lake Marina and Resort’s Cabin 2. This cozy retreat blends comfort with nature, perfect for boating fans and outdoor lovers alike.
Discover Blue Ridge, Georgia’s haunted past on a 90-minute lantern-lit ghost tour. Explore historic sites with real ghost-hunting gear and hear chilling local legends that come alive when darkness falls.
Step into Blue Ridge after dark for a 90-minute lantern-lit walk that blends local history, hands-on ghost-hunting gear, and theatrical storytelling. Brave the chill—and maybe something stranger—for an evening that reads like a history lesson and a séance.
Reserve the Firecracker Special private caboose for an intimate, window-lined journey along the Toccoa River through North Georgia’s Appalachian foothills. It’s a slow, scenic option for photographers, families, and anyone seeking a relaxed nature experience without the hike.
Ride 26 miles along the Toccoa River from Blue Ridge, Georgia aboard the 4-Hour Holiday Pavilion Train. Choose open-air benches for river views or climate-controlled coaches for comfort—this half-day trip mixes wildlife viewing, local history, and accessible amenities.
Take a four-hour, 26-mile open-air ride along the Toccoa River aboard the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway. Enjoy panoramic river views, a two-hour layover to explore McCaysville/Copperhill, and seasonal wildlife sightings — perfect for families and photographers.
