The Benton MacKaye Trail is a long-distance hiking trail located in the southeastern United States. Stretching approximately 300 miles, it runs from the northern end of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park in North Carolina to the Dahlonega area in Georgia. The trail is named after Benton MacKaye, an American forester and conservationist who is also known for proposing the idea of the Appalachian Trail. The trail features diverse landscapes, including forests, mountains, and rivers, making it a popular destination for hikers and nature enthusiasts. It passes through several protected areas, such as the Chattahoochee National Forest, and offers various access points for day hikes and longer treks. The Benton MacKaye Trail is known for its scenic beauty and opportunities for wildlife observation.