If you are planning a vacation to northern Georgia, chances are that you have decided to spend at least one day of your trip at Amicalola Falls State Park. At 729 feet, the falls are known as “the highest cascade east of the Mississippi”. Featuring numerous hiking trails, incredible mountain and seasonal views, and (of course) the falls themselves, it really is no wonder that this spot is so popular with both Georgians and vacationers. But what is there to do at the park that goes beyond the obvious attractions? How can you keep yourself and your group engaged and happy all day long? The great thing about Amicalola Falls is that there is even more than meets the eye. Here’s a look at just four of the hidden treasures that the park has to offer.
1. Creature Feature
If you are hoping to get up close and personal with native Georgian wildlife, your wish is sure to be granted with a visit to Amicalola Falls. A day trip to one of Georgia’s most popular state parks will provide you and your group with numerous opportunities to experience the plants and animals that are indigenous to the area. You can start your adventure off at the Amicalola Falls visitor’s center. The informative and engaging center features nature displays, as well as live animals. It is also a smart idea to chat with the park rangers to get an idea of which trails may be best for spotting specific animals, how to look for tracks, and to find out if any ranger-led programs or hikes will be going on throughout the day. You will find that the Amicalola Falls rangers are extremely friendly and will be more than happy to answer any questions you may have or to point you in the right direction. The programs that are offered at various intervals throughout the year include everything from reptile encounters to birding and everything in between.
Once you’ve gotten the 411 at the visitor’s center, you and your family can enjoy stellar views and the falls themselves as you explore the park’s many trails and spot native wildlife like birds, squirrels, foxes, rabbits, frogs, lizards, deer, and others. But if you’re not lucky enough to see a deer on your hike, there’s no need to feel left out. Simply stop by the Amicalola Falls Deer Park at the end of the day and enjoy the unique experience of actually feeding the elusive yet beautiful creatures.
2. Catch of the Day
Northern Georgia is well known for its ample supply of fresh water trout, and Amicalola Falls is no exception to this rule. Seasonal trout fishing is allowed in Little Amicalola Creek, enabling you to try your hand at catching “the big one” on your excursion. As you wait to get a bite, you can rest assured that you will never grow bored of the magnificent scenery surrounding you on every side. Once you’re satisfied with the day’s take, you can pack up your trout on ice, head back to the Helen cabins, and grill up your catch on your grill, in your fire pit, or even in your kitchen.
3. GPS Marks the Spot
If you want to go on a true treasure hunt, you may want to consider trying your hand at Geocaching. This unique, fun, and sometimes challenging activity is growing in popularity and is celebrated within the Georgia State Parks circuit – including Amicalola Falls. By visiting the Geocaching website and doing a search for Amicalola Falls, you will receive multiple sets of coordinates where other visitors have left hidden surprises. Your goal is to hike to these coordinates, locate the hidden capsule or container, remove the prize, and replace it with one of your own. This is a great experience for families, groups of friends, and even pet lovers. You’ll find that there’s even a Geocache specifically for the pooches.
4. Sights and Bites
If your stomach starts to growl while visiting the park, there’s no need to fear. Whether you’d like to bring your own, or be treated to a restaurant meal, Amicalola Falls has got you covered. The park features a number of picnic tables, all of which will afford you some trulyincredible views. You may also choose to visit Maple Restaurant which serves Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, and Sunday brunch. Locals and visitors alike love to stop by this eatery as it allows for a delightful meal, and even more delightful scenery. And because the restaurant is open throughout the year, you’ll get the opportunity to see gorgeous greens in the spring and summer, brilliant fall foliage, or spectacular snow capped mountains, depending on when you come to visit.
What hidden treasure will you look for on your next trip to Amicalola Falls State Park?
