STATE PARKS

Georgia’s highest state park encompasses some of the most outstanding scenery in GA’s Blue Ridge Mountains. Roadside overlooks provide spectacular 80-mile vistas, and 4 hiking trails lead visitors past wildflowers, streams, small waterfalls and lush forests. Visitors enjoy the summit visitor center for its views, gift shop and picnic tables. The park’s small lake is popular with anglers and circled by an easy walking trail. At an altitude of 3,640 feet, Black Rock Mountain is often cooler than other GA parks and may close during icy weather.

One of the most spectacular canyons in the eastern U.S., Tallulah Gorge is 2 miles long and nearly 1,000 ft deep. Take a hike on the rim trails to several overlooks, or obtain a permit to hike to the gorge floor. A suspension bridge sways 80 ft above the rocky bottom, providing spectacular views of the river and waterfalls. Tightrope walkers have twice crossed the gorge, and you can still see towers used by Karl Wallenda. A paved path follows an on old railroad bed, perfect for strollers and bicycles, or ride your mountain bike on a challenging 10-mile trail. Exhibits in the park’s Jane Hurt Yarn Interpretive Center highlight the rich history of this Victorian resort town, Watch the award-winning film for a dramatic journey through the gorge, including footage of rock climbers and kayakers.

On the shores of beautiful Lake Burton sits Moccasin Creek, a park that prides itself on being “where spring spends the summer.” Despite its location, the park is relatively flat, offering easy access for large RVs, bicycles and wheelchairs. A fully accessible fishing pier sits above a trout-filled creek open only to physically challenged visitors, senior citizens and children. At 2,800-acres, Lake Burton is a prime spot for skiing, boating and fishing. Canoe and fishing boat rentals are available during warmer months. When you visit, take a tour of the adjacent trout rearing station. There are several nearby mountain hiking trails to explore, too or simply relax in this peaceful setting. The park’s central location offers a perfect jumping off spot for exploring area waterfalls, trails, shops and restaurants.

This beloved park is nestled in the North GA mountains just outside Helen. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy hiking and mountain biking on scenic trails, including an easy lake loop, challenging trek to Anna Ruby Falls, 3-mile trail to downtown Helen or the rugged 7.5-mile single-track for bikers. The cool mountain lake offers a swimming beach and canoe rental during summer. Throughout the year, park staff host programs ranging from craft festivals and concerts, to animal programs and educational hikes. Overnight guests can choose from a hotel-style lodge, fully equipped cottages or modern campground. The park’s restaurant is known for its nightly mountain trout buffet, while craft lovers should not miss the lodge’s gift shop with pottery, quilts and other crafts. The lodge and beach house are popular spots for weddings, reunions, parties and conferences.

Smithgall Woods is an angler’s paradise. One of North GA’s premier trout streams, Dukes Creek, runs through this spectacular property and is a favorite for catch-and-release fishing. The number of anglers is limited and fishing is offered only on certain days, so anglers should call ahead for reservations. There’s also 5 miles of trails and 18 miles of roads for hikers and bicyclists to explore. The park is also an elegant mountain retreat, perfect for getaways, small weddings or outings with friends. 5 beautiful cottages provide a total of 14 bedrooms with private baths, phones, and TV. Some have porches along the stream, while others have private hot tubs. A 1-mile trail leads from the cottages to Dukes Creek Falls. Smithgall Woods was acquired by the state in 1994 as a gift-purchase from Charles A. Smithgall, Jr., a noted conservationist and businessman.

Georgia’s 2nd oldest state park is located at the base of Blood Mountain in the Chattahoochee National Forest. The park includes Neel Gap, a beautiful mountain pass near Brasstown Bald, the highest point in GA. Vogel is particularly popular during the fall when the mountains transform into a blanket of colored leaves. Hikers can choose from several trails: the popular 4-mile Bear Hair Gap loop, the lake loop that leads to Trahlyta Falls, or the challenging 13-mile Coosa Backcountry Trail. The park’s 22-acre lake is open to non-motorized boats. During summer, visitors can cool off at the mountain-view beach. This park is rich in history, with many facilities being constructed by the Civilian Conservation Corp during our nation’s Great Depression.