Creative, hippie heaven with strange artwork scattered about the harsh mountain face. What's not to love?
Thinking of taking a hike...
Bell Mountain is located in Hiwassee Georgia, and is very literally off the beat and path. Not a well advertised hike, or one that the City of Hiwassee particularly likes to mention. Don't lose heart by the twisting roads, or the strange road names, the prize is well worth it!
“Be groovy or leave man .” ~Bob Dylan
Shag Rag Road has to be one of the weirdest road names I've heard in a while---beside Ooochee Bottom Road in Upson. But either way, despite it's strange name and the numerous shacks located down it's banks--this road we'll get you there. Follow the road through the valley and eventually up the steep winding road of the mountain. Be careful though, the roads are EXTREMELY narrow and the many locals who live on the mountain often come flying down the mountain without hesitation. Keep a sharp eye on the horizon and make sure you give yourself enough time to safely move over to the banks if need be.
Signs will guide you to the top, but the clearest indication that you are reaching the top is the growing number of graffiti rocks. Graffiti artists and wannabes have flocked to the mountain for years to spray the jagged rocks covering the mountain's top. Others have turned their attention to the wooden steps and platforms. The city has attempted to stem the flow of graffiti artists by putting in cameras and warning signs. My advise would be not to paint the mountain due to the city's efforts. However, I don't have a problem with the spray paint. Honestly I believe it ads a punk rock vibe to the earth goddess vibe--and I'm living for it.
The top of the mountain also provides a 360 view, which is breath taking--literally the wind is insane up there. But if you want to spend some quiet time on top of the world, this is the perfect spot.
Final Notes
This isn't much of a HIKE, in fact the only part of hiking you might go through is if you park in the lower parking lot and make the steep trek up to the top of the mountain--about fifty feet. However, it's still a view you can't miss. Word of caution on the way down however, breaks can easily overheat and you can lose control of your car. Our breaks gave out about half way down and we had to stop to let them cool off. Make sure to pump your breaks, take it slow, roll with it (literally let it roll), and stop frequently on the banks to help the brakes cool off. Beware of unsuspecting drivers coming around the curves.
Gear for this Hike
Nothing is needed for this hike, other than extreme caution on your breaks.
Comments