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Johns Mountain and Keown Falls

A trail running loop off of the Pinhoti with epic views and a beautiful waterfall.

Trail Running Moderate

Distance
7.5 km
Ascent
320 m
Descent
320 m
Duration
1-2 hrs
Low Point
299 m
High Point
574 m
Gradient
Johns Mountain and Keown Falls Map

This trail run pairs an excellent overlook to a beautiful waterfall and shares part of the route with the 330-mile-long Pinhoti Trail. There are several variations to this loop, and there is no wrong way to run it.

Description

The two highlights of the route are Keown Falls and Johns Mountain Overlook. Begin with the Pinhoti Trail from the Keown Falls Trailhead (pronounced "Cowen" Falls). The waterfall is the first stop of the run, and a stairway leads to an observation deck with an excellent vantage point of the falls. Keown Falls is best visited in the winter and spring months before the heat of the summer transforms it to nothing more than a trickle.

Continuing the loop, follow the Pinhoti trail toward the Johns Mountain Overlook. A large wooden platform gives phenomenal views from its perch and can be accessed by vehicle for those looking to bag some easy views.

Further south, the loop follows the Johns Mountain Trail along a long, narrow ridge. In the winter, you'll be greeted with some partial views as the trail traverses the rocky ridge, straddled by steep slopes on either side.

Round out your run by following either the Keown Falls Trail or Pinhoti Trail back to the Trailhead. Keown Falls is considered more difficult due to its rugged, rocky offerings, as compared to the Pinhoti, which gradually switchbacks its way back to the parking lot. At the trailhead, enjoy a lunch at one of the many picnic benches before heading home for the day.

Sources: http://www.georgiatrails.com/gt/JohnsMountainTrail

Difficulty

Moderate

Medium Exposure

2 out of 4

The trail contains some obstacles such as outcroppings and rock which could cause injury.

Remoteness

2 out of 4

Away from help but easily accessed.

Best time to visit

all year round