It was from this company that the U.S. Forest Service acquired a large portion of the area in 1934 and 1935. Farms have reverted back to forests, roads have been turned into hiking trails, and the area is returning to the way it was when only Native Americans lived here. The following pages provide an overview of the Cohutta Wilderness, a way to approach the endeavor before beginning a detailed exploration of any one trail. The map provides information on access roads to the wilderness. Also shown are Forest Service roads bordering the area and designated trails which cross it.
Trailheads are generally well marked and parking areas are provided.
All of the roads that border the wilderness are one-lane dirt, sometimes with a coating of loose gravel. They are wide enough for two cars to pass cautiously. Curves are sharp and hard to see around. Often rock breaks through the road surface, creating a washboard ride. From the Ellijay Square, travel west on GA 52 for 9.5 miles to FS 18.