Woody Gap facts for kids
Woody Gap is a special spot in the mountains of northern Georgia. It's a low point or "gap" in a mountain ridge, like a natural pass through the hills. This place is famous because the long-distance Appalachian Trail crosses a road here, State Highway 60. Woody Gap sits high up, at 3,160 feet (about 963 meters) above sea level. From here, you can see amazing views of the beautiful Yahoola Valley below. The hiking path, called a trailhead, is open for everyone to visit all year long.
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What is Woody Gap?
Woody Gap is a "mountain pass," which is a path through a mountain range or over a ridge. Think of it as a natural doorway between two higher parts of the mountains. This particular gap is located in the Blue Ridge Mountains, which are part of the larger Appalachian Mountains in the eastern United States.
How High is Woody Gap?
The gap is quite high up, reaching an altitude of 3,160 feet (which is about 963 meters) above the ocean. Being so high means you get fantastic views! You can look out over the Yahoola Valley, seeing forests and hills stretching far away. It's a great place to stop and enjoy nature's beauty.
Trails and Roads at the Gap
One of the most important things about Woody Gap is that it's where the famous Appalachian Trail crosses a main road. The Appalachian Trail is a very long hiking path, stretching over 2,000 miles from Georgia all the way to Maine! At Woody Gap, hikers can easily get on or off the trail. The road that crosses here is State Highway 60, making it easy for people to drive to this scenic spot.
Who Was Arthur Woody?
The mountain pass is named in honor of a very important person named Arthur Woody. He was an early conservationist, which means he worked hard to protect nature and its resources.
Arthur Woody: A Forest Protector
Arthur Woody lived from 1884 to 1946. He was a forest ranger who spent his life working to protect the forests and wildlife in the North Georgia mountains. He saw how important it was to take care of the land, especially after many trees were cut down in the past.
Why Woody Gap is Named After Him
Woody was known for his efforts to bring back deer and other wildlife to the area. He also helped plant new trees and fought against forest fires. Because of his dedication to preserving the natural beauty and health of the mountains, this important gap was named in his honor. It's a way to remember his lasting impact on the environment we enjoy today.
