This trail is still part of the Appalachian Trail where you will come across the interesting and historical Walasi-Yi Center at Neels Gap Georgia. This was originally a structure built by a logging company in the area which was then rebuilt by the Civilian Conservation Corps in 1036 and was completed in 1937. It then became a traveler’s inn and restaurant until operations stopped in 1965. It was then about to be demolished in 1970 but was saved through the efforts of locals who passed a resolution to include it on the National Register of Historic Places. Today this place is hiker’s haven for a quick break from the day’s strenuous activities.

Considered as the oldest portion of the Appalachian Trail, this has been existent even before Benton MacKaye founded this over 100 years ago. A path that ran along this trail had already been created by the Cherokee long before. Neel’s Gap was even used to be known as Frogtown Gap and it was the primary trading path intersection of the Cherokee. Found below the Walasi-yi Center, you will find some remnants of the original Cherokee town structures.

Starting from the center, the initial climb reaches 800 feet high as you forward to a mile and half reaching Levelland Mountain where just a few distance further the trail welcomes you to the grandiose view of Hogpen Mountain. Approximately another mile and a half, you will reach a campsite at Wolf Laurel Tip. This point marks the midpoint of the whole trail where you can take a break at the picnic site.

After the quick stop, expect a descent to Tesnatee Gap that leads shortly to Richard B. Russell Scenic Highway. Abruptly, the path goes back to the usual trekking environment. Just nearby, you will also find the Logan Turnpike Trail intersection. From the highway you will then ascend to Wildcat Mountain with a steep 100 ft per .1 mile climb is to be expected. This is the most challenging section of the Appalachian Trail yet the view at the top is worth the climb.

Once at the peak of Wildcat Mountain, a short hike from here you will find a shelter where you may take a break or overnight camping. This may be the shortest portion of North Georgia’s Appalachian Trail as from this peak a descent leads you to some easy steep incline with a winding path that ends at Hogpen Gap.