Fort Mountain Georgia West Overlook Hiking Guide

My favorite place in Georgia to watch the sunset is Fort Moutain State Park. I have been several times and am in awe at the view each visit as if it is the first. However, I have realized that finding the trail and deciding which path to take can be a little tricky which is why I decided to create a hiking guide.

Where Is Fort Mountain State Park?

Fort Mountain State Park is located in the North Georgia town, Chatsworth. It is approximately an hour and 45 minute drive from Atlanta making it a great day trip.

Address: 181 Fort Mountain State Park Rd, Chatsworth, GA 30705

How to Access The Fort Mountain Overlook Trail

Once you’ve paid the $5 entrance fee you will be met with a fork in the road. To me, the obvious choice would be to go straight toward the Visitor’s Center as that is the only type of signage you see. However, if you are like me and would think similarly, you would be wrong. This is the tricky part I mentioned before. You actually need to take the road on the left.

Once you are heading in the right direction, you will just continue on this road until you see the Overlook/Stone Wall Fire Tower sign and a parking lot. Thankfully, there are no turns required in order to find it!

Which Trail Do I Choose To Get To The Fort Mountain Overlook?

The Fort Mountain hike is ultimately one big loop. However, if you are just here for the overlook, you would take the trail on the left, and just return by retracing your steps. If you want to experience the entire trail including the mysterious stone wall and old fire tower, you would take the path on the right and follow the loop. Technically, you could follow either trail since it is a loop, but I think having the overlook be your final destination is the way to go. I also highly recommend experiencing the entire loop and reading the plaques about the park’s history as it is pretty unique.

Fort Mountain West Overlook Trail Duration And Difficulty

If you choose to hike the entire loop of the Fort Mountain trail, it is approximately 1.5 miles. It is a relatively moderate hike with a 250-foot elevation gain. Leading up to the stone wall, the hike consists of a lot of steps made of rock which can be a bit tiring. Afterwards, the hike becomes a bit more flat and then ultimately downhill. To reach the overlook, you will descend down some wooden stairs that you will thankfully not have to climb back up! When you’re ready to get back home, you will just finish off the loop which continues to be more flat and downhill.

Are There Bathrooms At Fort Mountain West Overlook Trail?

On my last trip to Fort Mountain Overlook Trail, this question was on my mind. It had been a while since I last visited, and I really could not remember if there would be any bathrooms available upon my arrival. Thankfully, when we pulled up, there were bathrooms in sight. So, to answer your question, yes there are bathrooms at Fort Mountain Overlook Trail. Are they the cleanest, most nicest bathrooms ever? No, but they are bathrooms.

Is Fort Mountain Overlook Trail Worth It?

Yes, Fort Mountain Overlook Trail is definitely worth it. It provides some of the best views in Georgia, especially at sunset. Additionally, each time I have done this hike, it has not been busy at all. The only time there was a large group of people there in my experience was when a meteor shower was taking place. The trail is not too difficult and very rewarding, and I cannot recommend it enough.