Trails at Hard Labor Creek State Park

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Hiking Trails

Brantley Nature Trail

An easy walk characterized by mature hardwoods. This trail has reminders of the park’s origin. A prominent ravine echoes the past and the result of poor land-use practices. Much of the land which comprises Hard Labor Creek State Park was eroded cotton and corn fields and only marginally productive. Originally known as Hard Labor Creek National Recreation Demonstration Area, land stabilization was one of the first projects accomplished in the 1930s by the Civilian Conservation Corps.

  • Length: 1 mile
  • Difficulty: easy to moderate
  • Surface: Natural (unpaved surface)
  • Uses: Walking, hiking
  • Location: Behind the mini golf (across from the park office/trading post)

Beaverpond Nature Trail

Be sure you do not miss the tulip poplar (liriodendron tulipifera L) found on the left not long on your hike. Using care, step to its base and gain a greater appreciation of its size. Another feature of importance are the wetlands. These cradles of life contain the required food, shelter, and water for organisms across the entire food chain.

  • Length: 1 mile
  • Difficulty: easy to moderate
  • Surface: Natural (unpaved surface)
  • Uses: Walking, hiking
  • Location: Northernmost part of the Brantley trail

Mountain Biking Trails

Hard Labor Creek Biking Information

Orange Loop

The Orange Loop is about 1-mile on level ground which takes the rider through an interesting area of regenerating pine forest.

Blue Loop

The Blue Loop is a 5 mile loop rated for the Beginner/Intermediate rides highlighting four creek-side excursions. Along the way are boulder formations and cascading streams.

Green Loop

The Green Loop has 5-miles of Beginner/Intermediate rated rolling single track.

Red Loop

The Red Loop is a more challenging 5.15 mile loop that will take the rider up and down gently sloping terrain and crosses older hardwood forest of mixed pine and hardwood stands. Along the way are lush fern covered stream bottoms, boulder formations and cascading streams. This trail is rated for the Intermediate/Advanced riders.

Equestrian Trails

Hard Labor Creek Equestrian Information (horse trails open to hikers weekdays only)

Lake Rutledge Equestrian Trail

This 16-mile trail features both mature hardwood and hardwood/pine forests. Most striking are the bottoms and the creeks that course through them. Often one feels relocated to a more mountainous setting. Short climbs of moderate difficulty are common throughout the trail. Four return loops can be used to measure a ride’s length and duration. The section of trail across Fambrough Bridge Road is used less often and offers a ride of quiet solitude. The Lake Rutledge equestrian trail is open to hikers on weekdays only. Bicycles are not allowed. (see etiquette).

  • Length: 16 miles
  • Difficulty: moderate to difficult
  • Surface: Natural (unpaved surface)
  • Uses: horse riding, hiking
  • Location: East banks of Lake Rutledge. Accessible by Fairplay Road (road to Athens)

Lake Brantley Equestrian Trail

This 8-mile trail has both pine and hardwood forests. Deep gorges and granite outcroppings are common. A rock quarry used by the Civilian Conservation Corps can be seen if you are especially observant. For a shorter ride take the gray loop and cut the distance in half. Use caution crossing Fairplay Road by dismounting. The Lake Brantley equestrian trail is open to hikers on weekdays only. Bicycles are not allowed. (see etiquette).

  • Length: 8 miles
  • Difficulty: moderate to difficult
  • Surface: Natural (unpaved surface)
  • Uses: horse riding, hiking
  • Location: East banks of Lake Brantley. Accessible by Fairplay Road (road to Athens)

Trail Etiquette

  • Pack out all trash.
  • Keep dogs on a leash at all times.
  • Do not pick flowers, disturb wildlife or take anything off the park.
  • Protect the park and help prevent erosion by staying on the trails.
  • Give the right-of-way to bicyclists and equestrians.
  • Do not make loud noises or hurried movements around horses.

Other Information

For any questions, visit the Nature Center or call us at 706.557.3001.