Hike for the Chimps: Explore Project Chimps’ Scenic Trails and Honor a Loved One

Project Chimps, a remarkable non-profit sanctuary nestled in the rolling hills of north Georgia, provides a loving and forever home for chimpanzees retired from research. More than just a sanctuary, Project Chimps offers enriching educational programs and unique opportunities for visitors to connect with our mission. Among these opportunities are the sanctuary’s beautiful hiking trails, open from dawn till dusk, 365 days a year. These trails offer a chance to experience the sanctuary’s natural beauty and, with a bit of luck and a big zoom lens, observe the chimps in their spacious, natural habitats. Information about the trails is readily available on popular hiking apps like AllTrails and Gaia GPS, making planning your visit a breeze.

Support Project Chimps

Hiking the ChimpTrails at Project Chimps is a meaningful way to support their vital work. Beyond simply enjoying the scenery, you can contribute directly to caring for these incredible animals. A donation of $2 per hiker can be left in the parking lot kiosk or at the gift shop; additional donations are always welcome and can be made quickly through the Project Chimps website. Furthermore, the trails offer a unique way to honor the memory of a loved one. By purchasing a memorial bench to be placed along the trails or donating in a loved one’s name, you create a lasting tribute while supporting the chimps’ well-being.

Project Chimps boasts four distinct trails, each offering a unique experience:

• The Blue Trail: This convenient short trail connects the upper and lower parking areas, providing quick access to the heart of the sanctuary. The vibrant beauty of rhododendrons lining the path enhances a gentle stroll along the babbling creek. The upper parking area also offers picturesque views of the peak of Paris Mountain, the destination for hikers tackling the Yellow and White Trails.
• The Nature Trail: Perfect for hikers of all skill levels, the Nature Trail is a leisurely, relatively flat stroll featuring sturdy bridges and steps. This accessible path winds through diverse flora and fauna, offering a chance to learn about the local ecosystem through 34 informative interpretive signs. A visit to the serene koi pond adds to the tranquility of the experience. With seasonal changes bringing new sights and sounds and birdwatching opportunities, the Nature Trail offers something new with every visit.
• The Yellow Trail: For those seeking a more challenging hike, the Yellow Trail ascends Paris Mountain. The climb is made more manageable by strategically placed switchbacks, allowing hikers to take their time and enjoy the journey. During the seasons when the trees are bare, hikers are rewarded with glimpses into the Peachtree Habitat and the areas designated for future Phase II construction.
• The White Trail: Sharing some sections with the Yellow Trail, the White Trail offers a more rugged and adventurous experience. This trail features narrow paths and steep drop-offs in certain areas, making it suitable for experienced hikers. Hiking poles are strongly recommended, especially in wet weather. Like the Yellow Trail, the White Trail offers views into the Peachtree Habitat and future construction zone during the off-season.

Make sure to pick up a trail map or use an online trail app to navigate to Project Harvest, the farmland where we grow food for the chimps, or the Remembrance Garden, where we honor chimps who have passed away. 

Whether you’re an avid hiker, an animal lover, or simply seeking a meaningful way to connect with nature, the trails at Project Chimps offer an unforgettable experience. By visiting and supporting Project Chimps, you’re enjoying the sanctuary’s beauty, contributing to a worthy cause, and honoring the legacy of these remarkable chimpanzees.