Climb to an expansive 180-degree view along the Pine Mountain West Loop trail in Cartersville, GA. With views from Lake Allatoona to Plant Bowen, at less than 30 miles outside of Atlanta, this is a worthy short trail for those that like a little challenge as well.

Although the parking lot is fairly large, it's still small for the popularity of this hike, so get there early. The trail leaves the parking lot, passing an unmarked side trail on the left behind a large rock. Cross over a small bridge before arriving at the intersection making up the West Loop.

To the right you'll follow red blazes (officially orange) and to the left blue (officially seafoam green...uhh). Whichever direction you take, the trail begins to climb, switchbacking up the steep hillside. The trail is well maintained, but the 600 feet of elevation gain in less than a mile can wear you out quickly if not in good shape.

Reaching the top of the loop, follow the signs and continue to hike along the connector trail that joins with the East Loop and the .15 mile rock-lined spur trail to the summit. Your hard work will be rewarded with 180-degree views to the south covering Lake Allatoona, the surrounding hills, Cartersville, and Plant Bowen, a coal-fired power plant 7 miles to the west.

From here, you can head back the way you came, descending down the opposite side of the loop or you could continue hiking the East Loop to make this a 4.7 mile double loop.