Three Summit Challenge 2024

House Of Applejay’s Three Summits Challenge invites adventurers to conquer three mountain peaks in North Georgia, which inspired House of Applejay to name their two signature vodkas and an old-style liqueurs after them:

1. Mt Grassy Knob Sweet Grass Flavored Vodka Trail
2. Mt Wildcat Old-Style Juniper Liqueur Trail
3. Mt Frozen Knob Vista Trail

Explore the beautiful trails of North Georgia, where each hike offers distinctive altitudes and challenges that will test your adventurous spirit.

Participate for free in the Three Summit Challenge 2024 at House Of Applejay Distillery! Simply tag your Three Summit Trails pictures with @HouseOfApplejay on Facebook or @HouseOfApplejay_ on Instagram. Hurry, while supplies last! The challenge runs from September 1 to October 30, 2024. Don’t miss out! #ThreeSummitChallenge2024

Mt Grassy Knob Sweet Grass Flavored Vodka trail

Explore the trails at Mt. Oglethorpe, previously known as Grassy Knob until it was renamed in 1930. Standing at 3,288 feet (1,002 m), it is the highest point in the area. Historically, it marked the starting point of the Appalachian Trail until 1958, when trail leaders decided to relocate the southern terminus to Springer Mountain, approximately 20 miles north. During your hike, take time to visit the observation decks for sweeping panoramic views of the Blue Ridge Mountains and beyond. Don’t miss the eagle sculpture, where you can place a rock for a memorable experience. The park features multiple viewing decks scattered throughout, offering numerous opportunities to enjoy the scenic beauty, suitable for hikers of all skill levels.

Eagle’s Rest Park on Mt. Oglethorpe | Loop Trails

• Parking: 7315 Monument Rd, Jasper, GA 30143
  Gate Hours: 7:00am – 8:00pm
• Eagle’s Rest Trail | 0.5 miles, easy (white markers)
• Grassy Knob Vista Trail | 1.3 miles, moderate (blue markers),
• Oglethorpe Mountain Trail | 2 miles, strenuous (yellow markers)

Three Loop Trails to choose from

Dogs are welcome, but must be on a leash.

Click on Trail Map Picture to enlarge and download.

Mt Wildcat Old-Style Juniper Liqueur Trail

Enjoy a brief, moderate hike along Wildcat Mountain’s ridge in north Georgia for spectacular views! Starting from Hogpen Gap parking lot, follow the Appalachian Trail south. After a short uphill climb and a quarter-mile in, take the blue-blazed Whitley Gap Shelter Trail left for an easier route. Along the ridge, discover three viewpoints offering sweeping vistas of Cowrock Mountain and the valley below. The trail features some steep sections but remains manageable for hikers of all skill levels.

Appalachian Trail: Conservancy Springer Mountain to Bly Gap, GA map | In&Out Trail

• Parking: Hogpen Gap parking lot along GA-348 / Richard B Russell Scenic Highway
• Length (one way): ca. 1.6 mi | ca.  1 h 
• Elevation: ca 430′  Up

Easy to Moderate Trail

The summit of Wildcat Mountain is located about 0.6 miles away from the Appalachian Trail, accessible via the Whitley Gap Shelter side-trail. Dogs are welcome, but must be on a leash. 

Click on Trail Map Picture to enlarge and download.

Mt Frozen Knob Vodka VISTA trail

Explore this trail along a ridgeline from Bushy Head Gap to Fowler Mountain, offering spectacular vistas, especially in winter. Starting in a hardwood forest at Bushy Head Gap, the trail winds through rhododendron thickets and ascends Bear Den Mountain. It passes Hudson Gap and continues along ridgelines to McKenny Gap. Descend into Hatley Gap for campsites and water sources, culminating in panoramic views from Fowler Mountain at the trail’s northern end. Mount Frozen Knob lies to the south/southeast of Fowler Mountain, adding to the scenic allure of the area.

Benton Mackaye Trail: Map Segment 8a-8d (Bushy Head Gap to Fowler Mountain) | In&Out Trail

• Parking: Bushy Head Gap parking is along the road. You may have to search for a spot. 
• Length (one way): ca. 6.6 mi | ca.  5 h 
• Elevation: 1,939′  Up | 650′ Down

Challanging Trail

There is no vehicle access directly to Fowler Mountain. Dogs are welcome, but must be on a leash.

Click on Trail Map Picture to enlarge and download.

Heading into nature?

It’s all about respecting the environment and keeping yourself safe. Before you go, do a little homework: get a trail map, know the area, check the rules, and gear up properly. Pay attention to weather forecasts and be aware of any risks. By planning ahead and being mindful of your surroundings, you’ll help protect our natural spots and have a great, worry-free adventure.

Please leave no trace, and help preserve the beauty of the Appalachian Mountains for future generations.

* You can grab a free Three Summit sticker at the House of Applejay Tasting Room in East Ellijay, while supplies last. Please note that you must be 21 or older to enter.