Red Top Mountain - Hike with Me Saturday

Hikers…we’re back at it again!! Let’s End Black History Month Together—Big Vibes, Big Gratitude

We’ll be hitting the trails all month of February, soaking up nature, history, and each other’s good energy. Now, it’s time to bring it all together at Red Top Mountain State Park for one final, unforgettable hike. This 3.6-mile easy loop on the Iron Hill Trail is more than a walk in the woods—it’s a space to reflect, recharge, and celebrate everything we’ve experienced during the month.

But wait— Did you know Red Top Mountain played a key role in Black history? In 1950, a part of this park became Georgia’s first state park for Black people, named George Washington Carver State Park. It was Georgia's State Park for Negroes. It was a sanctuary, and a refuge; a place where Black families gathered to feel safe, celebrated, and connected during segregation. Our very own beach to kick back and enjoy the great outdoors. Let dig into it and more as we explore the trails at Red Top.

Whether you’re a hiking enthusiast or just up for some outdoor connection & good company, this adventure will be a great way to wrap up February 2025!! Join me on the trails!!

Trail Dets:

• Distance: 3.6 miles round trip (rated easy in difficulty)

• Elevation Gain: 150 feet

• Pace: We’ll keep a steady but manageable pace, taking breaks to soak in the surroundings and recharge.

Mindful Tips:

• Be sure to wear sturdy footwear with good grip.
• Pack a lunch to enjoy and fuel up while taking in the spectacular views.
• It can be chilly when we stop, so layer up and bring something warm for when we stop before looping back around.
• Leave No Trace: Pack out what you bring on the trails.
• Leave nature as you find it - leaving rocks, leaves, trees, mushrooms, and flowers on the trail.
• Be respectful of others, the wildlife, and nature!
• Happy hiking!

Fun Facts:

• John Loyd Atkinson, a Tuskegee Airman and WWII veteran, was Georgia’s first Black park superintendent. He made profound contributions to park, including black Girl Scout Camp, now known as Camp Pine Acres.
• Families from Atlanta, Birmingham, and beyond flocked here for reunions, church picnics, and music at “The Beach.”
• "The Beach" was also known to home to Georgia's only Black Ski Club
• Civil Rights icons like Coretta Scott King and Andrew Young found their way here, adding even more significance to this space.

Host or Publisher Down2Earth: WeColorOutdoors