Bask in the warm sun and stiff breezes enjoyed at the top of Georgia's second highest mountain as you take in unobstructed 360° views. At almost 4,700 feet, Rabun Bald offers hikers one of the best views in the state atop an observation tower that takes you above the surrounding trees. This hike should be on your short list.

Two gravel roads mark the end of Kelsey Mountain Road. The trail is marked with a bright green blaze and sign a few feet down the gravel road to the right. Because there is no official parking, make sure not to block any roads, driveways, or mailboxes. There is space for about 10 cars to squeeze in.

The hike's elevation gain begins and stays at a constant 600 feet/mile rate making it an excellent hike to build up your trail legs. At .2 miles you'll t-bone the yellow-blazed Bartram Trail. Turn right, continuing uphill. The trail alternates between dense rhododendron tunnels that provide cooler air in the hot summer months and fern laced hillsides.

Just before the mile mark the trail passes a campsite on the right. Stay to the left following the sign. From here you'll hike through a series of short switchbacks before the final straight shot to the summit. At the summit, the trail splits in several directions. However, look to the left and you'll see the stone observation tower.

Climb the steep staircase for unobstructed 360° views of up to 100 miles in all directions. Even if the sun is out you'll likely be experiencing strong winds keeping you comfortable. As the second highest mountain in the state, Rabun Bald feels like it towers over the surrounding hills, making it one of the best views in Georgia. Plan to chill for a while and soak it all in, but eventually you do have to leave. So sad.

On the way back down, make sure you follow the sign at the summit for Beegum Gap and don't accidentally head down the Bartram toward Warwoman Dell. If you want something more difficult, try Rabun Bald via Hale Ridge Road or the Rabun Bald Trail that summits the mountain from the east.