The Chattooga River Trail (CRT) parallels the Chattooga River for about 45 miles, from near its origin close to Cashiers, North Carolina to the Highway 76 Bridge on the Georgia/South Carolina border. In terms of backpacking opportunities in the southeast, it’s hard to find the words to describe what a true gem the CRT is.  As you work your way down the trail, you get completely immersed in a watery ecosystem; from the Chattooga River itself with its many rapids and swimming spots to the numerous springs, tributaries, and waterfalls, and all of it in such pristine condition, you almost wouldn’t be surprised if a Cherokee hunting party appeared around the next bend.