Rabun County Georgia: Chill Out and Take a Hike! - Travel Taste and Tour Magazine

Rabun County, Georgia has countless trails for folks of all skill levels to get out in to nature, get some exercise and have an adventure. We have trails that lead to waterfalls, mountain-top vistas, rushing rivers and the depths of a gorge, and even trails that lead us back in history. But most people tend to think of trail hiking as a seasonal activity, reserved for the milder temperatures of spring, summer and early fall. But hiking through the late fall and winter months can be just as rewarding, provided you prepare yourself accordingly. When those lovely leaves finally fall from the trees, the scenic views along the trails reach farther and are more breathtaking. When there’s a dusting of snow on the ground, the sounds of nature are muffled and the silence is both inspiring and humbling. And wildlife in the winter is completely different, giving you a chance to see new and exciting things. Situated on the southern end of the Appalachian Mountains, Rabun County is the snowiest county in the state of Georgia and an ideal destination for winter hiking.

While all that sounds and is wonderful, there are definitely things that need to be considered when hiking in cooler weather. We recommend doing a little homework before setting out, but some of the most basic things to consider are proper clothing, hydration and general safety precautions. We should never take our safety, comfort or enjoyment for granted when hiking, no matter what season it is, but especially in the cooler months. Here is some common advice…

Proper Clothing: Dress in layers. Have a base layer of wicking material to keep perspiration away from your skin, a mid-layer for insulation and a shell layer to keep moisture out. By layering, you can add or remove layers throughout your hike to stay warm and comfortable without overheating. Also, wear a hat, take sunglasses and be sure your footwear has extra traction in case of slippery conditions. For really cold days, take special care of your nose, cheeks, ears, fingers and toes, with extra covering. Hydration: Staying hydrated is just as important during cold weather as it is during warm. Perspiration is occurring even if you don’t feel sweaty. Make sure your water bottle has insulation, so your beverage doesn’t freeze. You may also want to bring along a hot beverage, a little extra warmth can go a long way.
General Safety: Check the forecast beforehand and don’t go out if a severe weather condition is predicted. Know where you’re going and make sure you’re up to it. Winter may not be the time to challenge yourself. Take a first aid kit along and even an emergency signal or whistle. These small items could be essential if something unexpected happens. And always make sure someone knows where you are and when to expect your return. Preferably, don’t hike alone, go with a buddy.

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To get geared up for your winter hike, stop by one of our local outfitters who can also give you some expert advice before setting out. And after your adventure and all that cool, fresh air and invigorating exercise, come in and get cozy by the fire at one Rabun County’s many charming inns. Sip some warming libations at one of our wineries, distilleries, tasting rooms or coffee shops. Or enjoy a satisfying farm-to-table dining experience at one of our acclaimed restaurants. No matter how cold, winter days and evenings spent in the beautiful mountains of Rabun County will warm you heart and soul! Start your adventure today at ExploreRabun.com.

URL: Rabun County | Your Georgia Mountain Destination (explorerabun.com)

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