How to Hike at Arabia Mountain

mountain with red diamorphia

Did you know that Arabia Mountain is home to fragile ecosystems and species found almost nowhere else on earth? That includes a variety of rare and endangered plants, species like Diamorpha, snorkelwort, and quillwort. These plants live in the solution pits (small patches of sand, dirt, and muddy water) that dot the seemingly barren rock face. At various times of the year, the plants that live in the solution pits bloom, covering the mountain with a beautiful show of life. In order to sustain the natural beauty of our ecosystem and wildlife, we ask that visitors take these simple steps:

Diamorpha grows in a solution pit on Arabia Mountain.

“Stay on the Gray.”

Some trails go out on the bare rock outcrop – when you do, we ask that you stick to the bare granite whenever possible. Lichen and patches of sand, mud, and water appear on the rock face too, but they can be damaged by foot traffic. Wherever possible, stick to the bare granite – that way, you can enjoy the flowers that grow out of those muddy, sandy patches!

Leash your dog (and pack their poo)!

Dogs can be tempted to run through and drink from the puddles on the mountain. It’s tempting, but please don’t! If you keep your dog on a leash, they won’t run through the puddles and disrupt the habitat. (If you’re worried about water, be sure to bring a small bowl and water bottle in your backpack!). And if your dog poops, please pick it up and take it with you! 

Leave nature as you found it.

Take only photographs when you go home; please leave flowers, rocks, and other pieces of nature out in the wild, but if you have trash, be sure to bring it home with you!

Those are the basics of Leave No Trace at Arabia Mountain. Check out this video from Ranger Robby for more info:

To stay connected and to learn more about our “Leave No Trace” campaign please visit www.dekalbcountyga.gov/parks/leave-no-trace-campaign.