Northeast Georgia Links » State Parks

Guest Blog: Mary Boland – Rabun County – Fall Activities

Dennis — Fri, 21 Oct 2011 03:39:25 +0000

Submitted courtesy of Mary Boland – Rabun News

The mountains are bustling with activity and ablaze with color right now. Early changers like dogwood, sourwood, blackgum, and sumacs are at peak. Maples and birches are beginning to change, too. It’s an ideal time to take an enjoyable scenic drive and snap some beautiful photos.

Rabun County has three beautiful Georgia State Parks just bursting with color! And whether you are in the mood for an easy going walk or a strenuous climb, there are awesome hiking opportunities with an unsurpassable spectrum of color, many leading to breathtaking cascades. Tallulah Gorge, Moccasin Creek and Black Rock Mountain are all great starting places, and there are literally hundreds of miles of hiking trails throughout the county.

A sunny Saturday and starry night are in the forecast for this weekend, and if you happen to be looking for a wholesome family activity, WAILS TO TRAILS is a delightfully spooky way! Meet colorful characters and events of the past as you walk along the existing bed of the Tallulah Falls Railway just after sunset. It’s an easy .75 mile walk, topped off with a hayride back to the start. Be sure to bundle up, we’re expecting lows in the 30’s Saturday night!

If you haven’t yet checked out the Promenade for the Arts in Mountain City, this is a great weekend to do so! This Friday, October 21, is Open Mike Night. Expect lots of fun, starting at 6:30. All musicians, storytellers, poets, dancers, and other performers are welcome! And, who doesn’t love a Masquerade Ball? On Saturday, October 22, the Promenade features music by the Ramcats, a delicious Low Country Boil, costume contest & dancing.

Other special events this weekend that you may want to check out include the “Hay Bales and Harvest Time” Oktoberfest in Sky Valley. Decorated Hay Bale are on display throughout the community, and it’s a great photo opportunity. There’s also pumpkin painting, arts and crafts, food, and a battle of the bands. Sunday Supper at the Lake Rabun Pavilion features the freshest foods prepared by two great chefs, Joe Truex of Atlanta’s Watershed Restaurant and Jamie Alfred of the Lake Rabun Hotel. It’s a throwback to yesteryear when Sunday suppers were a special time for family, friends and neighbors. Click here for to link to our Facebook page.

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Unicoi State Park and Lodge

Dennis — Mon, 07 Jun 2010 01:59:50 +0000

Nestled in the north Georgia mountains just two miles from the Alpine village of Helen, Unicoi is one of Georgia’s most beloved state parks. Throughout the year, the park offers outstanding programs which focus on natural, cultural, historical and recreational resources. Outdoor enthusiasts will enjoy hiking and biking on scenic mountain trails, especially those leading to Helen and Anna Ruby Falls. Craft lovers should not miss the lodge gift shop specializing in hand-made quilts and local pottery. Numerous picnic tables are located throughout the park. Click here to visit the website

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Amicalola State Park and Lodge

Dennis — Sun, 23 May 2010 16:57:56 +0000

It’s easy to see why this is one of Georgia’s most popular state parks. Amicalola, a Cherokee Indian word meaning “tumbling waters,” is an appropriate name for these 729-foot falls ~~ the tallest cascading waterfall east of the Mississippi River. An 8.5-mile approach trail leads from the park to Springer Mountain, the southern end of the famed 2,135-mile Appalachian Trail. However, numerous other trails are available for shorter journeys.

A beautiful lodge at the top of the mountain is popular with guests who prefer traditional hotel comforts, while the cottages and campgrounds are more rustic. The park’s Maple Restaurant is known for its spectacular views and Sunday brunch buffet. For hikers who enjoy more adventure, a 5-mile trail leads to the backcountry Len Foote Hike Inn. Be sure to stop by the visitor center to see an Appalachian Trail display, nature exhibits, live animals and a gift shop. Click here to visit the website

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Blackrock Mountain State Park

Dennis — Wed, 19 May 2010 01:44:59 +0000

Black Rock Mountain State Park, named for its sheer cliffs of dark-colored biotite gneiss, encompasses some of the most outstanding country in Georgia’s Blue Ridge Mountains. Located astride the Eastern Continental Divide at an altitude of 3,640 feet, Black Rock Mountain is the highest state park in Georgia. Numerous scenic overlooks provide spectacular 80-mile vistas of the Southern Appalachians, and several hiking trails lead visitors past wildflowers, cascading streams, small waterfalls and lush forests.

The summit visitor center and picnic tables are popular with travelers in northeast Georgia. Nearby are Tallulah Gorge State Park, Moccasin Creek State Park, and the town of Clayton with art galleries, restaurants and shops. Rental cottages with mountain views and a modern campground make this a great mountain getaway. Tent campers can even choose from more secluded “walk-in” sites or primitive backpacking sites. Campers with RVs should be aware that the park entrance includes a two-mile climb with a 10% grade, and the campground has a number of tight turns. Most camping rigs exceeding 25 feet are not recommended. Due to the incline and the high elevation, the park may close during periods of icy weather. Click here to visit the website

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