Forest Road 39 Toccoa River to Blue Ridge

Forest Road 39 traces an ancient Cherokee trading path along the Toccoa River’s upper reaches, winding through dense hardwood hollows where moonshine stills once hid from federal agents. The route climbs steadily from the river bottom at 1,800 feet to ridgeline views near 3,200 feet, crossing half a dozen creek beds that can turn treacherous after heavy rains. Key landmarks include the abandoned Grandview fire tower at mile 8 and the old CCC bridge over Rock Creek, where granite boulders force careful line selection.

This moderate trail demands high-clearance 4WD for the rocky creek crossings and steep grades, especially the notorious Possum Trot Hill section. Spring offers the best conditions before summer rains wash out culverts, though fall colors make October worth the mud risk. No permits required, but bring spare fuel—the nearest gas is 35 miles either direction. Dispersed camping is allowed past mile 5, and you’ll earn mountain views that stretch to the Tennessee line on clear days.