Wildcat Ridge

The Chattahoochee National Forest, located in northern Georgia, is a beautiful expanse of protected land known for its stunning mountain landscapes, dense forests, and diverse wildlife. Spanning over 750,000 acres, it covers part of the Appalachian Mountains and is home to a wide variety of plant and animal species. The forest is a haven for outdoor activities like hiking, camping, fishing, and bird-watching, with hundreds of miles of trails, including parts of the Appalachian Trail.

This is a short day-hike near the Appalachian Trail to Wildcat Mountain that ends at a ridgeline with 180 degree views across the valley and to Cowrock Mountain. It starts at the Hogpen Gap parking area and follows the Appalachian Trail southbound climbing 200′ in the first 0.3 miles until you reach a junction to the blue-blazed Whitley Gap Shelter trail. Turn left onto this trail and continue a gradual climb to Wildcat Mountain at 3698 feet and an outstanding view just past it at 0.9 miles. If you are looking for an overnight option in this area, you can continue along the ridgeline and descend another 0.6 miles to reach Whitley Gap Shelter where there is a spring and flat area in front of the structure for tent camping. From Hogpen Gap, it is 0.9 miles one-way to reach the Wildcat Mountain viewpoint or 1.5 miles to reach the shelter.