Bartram Trail Hike plus Wine Tasting

If you’re looking to combine a day of outdoor adventure with some relaxing wine tasting, the Bartram Trail Hike plus Wine Tasting experience might just be what you need. This private tour takes you through Georgia’s scenic Rabun County, with a challenging yet rewarding hike and a chance to unwind with tastings at a local vineyard. It’s a well-reviewed option for those who enjoy nature and a little indulgence, but it’s not without its considerations.

What we really like about this experience is the personalized attention you get, thanks to the private tour setup, and the beautiful scenery along the trail, which is perfect for anyone who loves breathtaking mountain views. We also appreciate that lunch is included, featuring fresh, organic ingredients, which adds a thoughtful touch. On the flip side, a potential downside is that it’s quite a physically demanding hike, so it’s best suited for those with a moderate fitness level.

This experience appeals most to those who want a well-rounded outdoor day with a bit of luxury at the end. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or someone looking to push your limits with scenic vistas and a relaxed wine tasting, this tour offers a balanced day out. It’s especially suited for travelers who enjoy personalized tours and aren’t afraid of a little physical activity.

Key Points

• Beautiful scenery and waterfalls make this hike memorable.
• Private tour means personalized attention and a flexible pace.
• Includes lunch and 4-6 tastings, providing good value for wine lovers.
• Challenging hike suitable for those with a moderate fitness level.
• Local wineries like Stone Wall Creek, 12 Spies, or Yonah Mountain Winery offer a relaxing finish.
• Weather-dependent experience — good weather is essential for safety and enjoyment.

What to Expect from the Tour

This tour kicks off in Clayton, Georgia, where you meet your guide at Andy’s Market. From there, it’s about an 8-hour journey into Georgia’s wilderness. The star of the show is the Bartram Trail, a designated National Recreation Trail, winding through Rabun County’s stunning landscape. You can anticipate some significant elevation changes, so be prepared for a challenging hike, but one that promises rewarding views.

The hike itself covers roughly 8 miles, passing waterfalls and mountain vistas that make every step worth the effort. Several reviews praise the maintained trail and the scenery, with one reviewer noting, “The trail was very well maintained and the scenery was beautiful.” During the trek, your guide will share insights about the plants and environment, keeping it interesting and engaging.

At the mountain’s summit, you’ll enjoy a picnic-style lunch with mostly organic ingredients, including turkey, flatbread, hummus, nuts, berries, and seasonal greens. This is a highlight for many, as it offers a chance to relax and soak in the views. Some reviews mention the lunch from Dante’s garden as “super fresh,” which adds a special touch to an already scenic experience.

Once the hike wraps up, it’s time to unwind at a local winery, such as Stone Wall Creek Vineyard, 12 Spies Vineyard, or Yonah Mountain Winery. These wineries provide tastings of four to six different wines, often described as enjoyable and serene, perfect for a post-hike relaxation. Guides and visitors alike have noted that the tastings are well-paced and fun, with a friendly atmosphere.

The Hike: Scenic, Challenging, Rewarding

The Yonah Mountain Trail is known for its difficulty, but the views you get make the effort worthwhile. Several reviewers describe it as “challenging enough, but not extremely difficult,” which is a good way to frame it. Dante, the guide, is frequently praised for his knowledge, humor, and lighthearted approach, making the long uphill trek more enjoyable.

The waterfalls seen along the way are frequently highlighted as “amazing,” and the mountain views at the top are described as “breathtaking.” For those who enjoy taking photos or simply soaking in nature, this hike delivers plenty of photo-worthy moments. The trail’s maintained condition also means you won’t have to worry about tricky terrain, but be prepared for some uphill sections.

Insights from Reviews

One reviewer mentioned, “Dante was fun and kept the hike entertaining,” which speaks to the overall experience of having a guide who keeps the mood light and engaging. Another said, “The waterfalls were amazing,” confirming the trail’s reputation for natural beauty. Several reviews also note that the hike is physically demanding but doable, especially if you’re in moderate shape.

Lunch and Winery: A Perfect Finish

After working up an appetite, you’ll appreciate the lunch from Dante’s garden. Described as “super fresh,” it includes seasonal greens, nuts, berries, and lean meats — a thoughtful, homemade meal that elevates the whole experience. Many mention that the lunch was a highlight, not just fuel for the hike but a delicious way to relax.

The winery visit at the end rounds out the day nicely. Visitors note that the tasting experiences are calming and fun, with a charismatic “Barista” who enhances the visit. These wineries are located in peaceful settings, perfect for unwinding after a hike.

How the Tour is Structured

The day begins at 9:00 am in Clayton, GA, giving ample time for the full experience. The tour is private, so only your group participates, which means the pace and focus are tailored to your needs. The entire adventure is designed to last about 8 hours, from start to finish, including the drive, hike, lunch, and wine tasting.

Transportation to and from the starting point isn’t included, so you’ll need to arrange your own ride, but the meeting point in Clayton is convenient for those staying nearby or arriving by car. The tour is suitable for travelers with moderate physical fitness, given the length and elevation changes of the trail.

Price and Value

At $127.18 per person, the tour offers good value considering the inclusions: a knowledgeable guide, a hearty organic lunch, and up to six wine tastings. Reviews are overwhelmingly positive, with many highlighting the personalized experience and the beautiful scenery as worth the cost.

Practical Considerations

• Weather is a factor—highly dependent for safety and enjoyment. Cancellations due to poor weather are fully refundable if notified in time.
• The hike covers about 8 miles, so expect some uphill stretches and potentially challenging terrain; good moderate fitness is recommended.
• The tour’s private nature means fewer crowds and more tailored attention, which many travelers appreciate.
• Bring appropriate footwear, water, and sun protection—most of the trail is outdoors and exposed.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts who don’t mind a tough hike and want to see stunning mountain vistas, waterfalls, and pristine wilderness. It’s also ideal for wine lovers seeking a scenic, relaxing finale after a vigorous trek. The private guide ensures your day is tailored, making it suitable for those who value personalized service.

If you’re traveling with someone who is fit enough for a demanding hike but also appreciates good food and wine, this could be an excellent choice. However, if you’re looking for a casual, laid-back day or aren’t comfortable with physical activity, it might be worth considering other options.

Final Thoughts

The Bartram Trail Hike plus Wine Tasting offers a well-balanced mix of physical activity, natural beauty, and local flavor. The combination of challenging yet scenic hiking and the opportunity to sample some fine Georgia wines makes for a memorable day. The guide’s friendliness and knowledge add a layer of comfort and enjoyment, turning what could be a strenuous hike into a truly rewarding experience.

While it might not be the best fit for everyone—especially those who prefer a more relaxed day or are not in moderate shape—it’s hard to deny the appeal for travelers craving an active adventure with a touch of sophistication. If you’re looking for a genuine outdoor experience that ends with good wine and great company, this tour will deliver.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
This experience is designed for adults 21 and over, mainly because of the wine tastings involved. The hike is challenging, so it’s best suited for those with a moderate fitness level.

How long is the hike?
The hike covers about 8 miles, which takes most people several hours to complete, depending on pace and breaks.

What does the lunch include?
The lunch is picnic-style, with turkey meat, flatbread, hummus, nuts, berries, and seasonal greens from an organic farm. It’s described as fresh and homemade.

Are the wine tastings included in the price?
Yes, you get four to six tastings at a local winery, included in the $127.18 per person fee.

Is transportation provided?
No, transportation to and from the meeting point in Clayton is not included, so you’ll need to arrange your own ride.

What weather conditions should I expect?
Good weather is crucial for safety and enjoyment. The tour can be canceled for poor weather, with full refunds or a chance to reschedule.

This tour balances the thrill of a vigorous outdoor adventure with the pleasures of wine tasting—a true taste of Georgia’s natural and culinary delights. Perfect for those who want to challenge themselves and relax in style afterward.