Pickens: Trails, Marble and History

About 11 miles of multi-use trails at Talking Rock Nature Park add a natural touch to trips to Pickens. At the same time, the marble industry, historic architecture and railroad history offer other specific themes to explore. As you plan your trip, consider whether outdoor activity, history or a cultural program should take center stage: options range from a trail for beginner cyclists to a model train tour and stage productions.

Trails and Scenery

Talking Rock Nature Park has about 11 miles of multi-use trails. On John’s Trail, gradual climbs and descents alternate; the trail is suitable for beginner cyclists. Picnic tables and benches are spread throughout the park, making it easy to plan a break alongside your activity.

Burnt Mountain Preserve is a 900-acre protected area managed by the county. The Burnt Mountain Overlook offers expansive views. Mount Oglethorpe has three separate hiking trails; as trail details can change, check the latest information before your hike. Historically, the mountain was the original southern terminus of the Appalachian Trail—another aspect of its connection to hiking.

Marble, Architectural History and Railroads

The Old Pickens County Jail was the third jail in Pickens County from 1906 to 1982. The two-story brick and marble building stands out for its rusticated marble façade, marble veranda columns and turrets. This makes it possible to understand the former jail not only through its function and history, but also through clearly recognizable architectural details.

The Pickens County Marble History Museum is located at 500 Veterans Memorial Blvd in Jasper and showcases the rich heritage of the marble industry in Pickens County. While the jail is a specific historic building, the museum focuses on the industrial marble tradition. These offer two distinct ways of exploring the county’s history: the architecture of a jail and the legacy of the marble industry.

The Tate Depot Train Society explains the role of the railroad in the development of the marble industry in Pickens County. It also offers a route-viewing tour of its HO-scale model railroad. Here, railroad history comes together with a hands-on experience centered on the model railway—another way to explore the marble and railroad theme besides architecture or a museum.

Culture, Wine and Events

The Kirby-Quinton Cabin offers a glimpse into pioneer life in Pickens. It has also been used to introduce students to the heritage of the mountain region and life on the North Georgia frontier. The Tater Patch Players focus on a different form of cultural activity: the group produces five stage productions each year.

Fainting Goat Vineyards offers craft wines made from French grape varieties. Sheriff’s Jeepfest is a three-day event held annually over Labor Day weekend. The program includes Jeep obstacles, trails, mud, concerts, rides and food. If you would like to include the festival in your travel plans, check the specific event dates in advance.

Discover more destinations: Marble Hill, Nelson, Talking Rock, Jasper, Washington County, Brooks, Appling County, Habersham County.

For the broader travel overview: Georgia.