A North Georgia Gem Right in Our Backyard: Fred Talley’s Guide to Burnt Mountain Preserve

Howdy, neighbors! Fred Talley here from Faith Pest Control, right here in our beautiful corner of Pickens County.

If you’ve lived in or around Jasper for any length of time, you know we are blessed with some of the finest mountain air, friendliest folks, and prettiest scenery in the whole state of Georgia. Whenever folks ask me what I love most about living and working up here in the mountains, I tell ’em it’s the fact that you can finish up a day’s work and be standing on top of a mountain ridge taking in a million-dollar view ten minutes later.

One of my absolute favorite hidden gems in our local community is the Burnt Mountain Preserve. Whether you’re looking to stretch your legs, take in the seasonal wildflowers, or just enjoy a quiet moment away from the hustle and bustle, this 900-acre county-owned treasure is tough to beat.

What Makes Burnt Mountain Preserve So Special?

Located right off Route 136 heading east out of Jasper—just before you hit the main scenic overlook—Burnt Mountain Preserve sits at an elevation of roughly 2,500 feet.

What a lot of folks don’t realize is that this land isn’t just pretty to look at—it plays a huge role in protecting our community. The preserve covers the headwaters of the Champion Creek valley and protects the Long Swamp Creek watershed, which helps safeguard the clean drinking water supply for the city of Jasper. As someone who spent years studying engineering before getting into public health and pest control, I appreciate good stewardship when I see it. Preserving this valley keeps our water clean and keeps the native wildlife thriving.

Exploring the Trails: Something for Every Hiker

Whether you’re out for a breezy afternoon stroll or you want a workout that’ll make your legs burn, the preserve has three main trails built and maintained by the Mountain Stewards:

• The Crest Trail (0.3 Miles – Orange Blazes):

  If you just want a light, easy loop to stretch your legs or get a quick breath of fresh mountain air, start here. It loops through the upper portion of the preserve and offers great winter vistas across the valley.

• The Preserve Trail (1.0 Mile – Yellow Blazes):

  Graduating to moderate difficulty, this trail takes you along ridge crests with gorgeous western and southern views looking out toward Sharp Top Mountain and Grandview Lake. Keep an eye out for the educational signage along the path identifying local tree species and native plant life.

• The Champion Creek Trail (Strenuous):

  Now, if you’re looking for a true physical test, this is the one. The trail drops down 800 feet of elevation into the bottomland of the Champion Creek valley before reaching a wooden bridge over the creek. Just remember: every foot you walk down, you’ve got to climb right back up!

A Quick Tip from Your Local Bug Man 🐜

Now, you knew I couldn’t write an article about walking in the woods without throwing in a little friendly advice from your neighborhood exterminator!

When you’re out enjoying North Georgia’s trails—especially during the warmer spring and summer months—nature is out there enjoying it, too. Ticks, mosquitoes, and chiggers love the shade of our hardwoods just as much as we do. Here are a few simple tips before you head out:

1. Tuck and Cover: If you’re heading down the Champion Creek Trail where vegetation gets a bit thicker, tuck your pant legs into your socks. It might not be a high-fashion look, but it keeps seed ticks and chiggers off your skin.

2. Use a Friendly Repellent: Spray an EPA-registered insect repellent containing DEET or Picaridin on your boots and lower pant legs.

3. Do a Post-Hike Check: When you get back home to Jasper, do a quick tick check on yourself, your kids, and your pets before settling in for dinner.

Get Out and Enjoy Pickens County!

We are so lucky to call this area home. Places like Burnt Mountain Preserve remind us why North Georgia is such a special place to live, raise a family, and enjoy the outdoors.

The next time you have a free Saturday morning, pack a bottle of water, grab a pair of sturdy walking shoes, and head up Route 136 to check out the preserve.

And hey, while you’re out enjoying the wild bugs in their natural habitat, make sure the ones at home aren’t invading yours! If you ever run into termites, ants, mice, or anything else creeping around your crawlspace or attic, you know who to call.

Stay safe, enjoy the mountain views, and let me be YOUR bug man!

— Fred Talley

Owner & Certified Public Health Specialist, Faith Pest Control

Jasper, Georgia