About 3.7 miles above Highway 28 bridge, the Chattooga River Trail and the Bartram Trail join to continue southward along the River and across the West Branch. The Foothills Trail runs between Spoon Auger Falls and a point just north of Big Bend Falls, connecting at both points with the Chattooga River Trail. This trail runs alongside the river at some points, and high above along the ridge crest at others. This trail requires 2-3 days to hike comfortably. Additional trails are in the vicinity.
Some people enjoy the challenge of hiking cross country in areas where there are no trails.
Large areas within the Chattooga River Corridor have been left undeveloped to provide a sense of solitude. Hikers frequently try to cover too many miles per day, and therefore lack the time to enjoy the natural surroundings. Many find 6-8 miles per day is a good distance with a backpack on a good trail. When traveling cross country, five miles may require a full day where vegetation is thick and rock outcrops numerous. Steep terrain often requires hikers to search for level spots in which to pitch a tent.