Amicalola Falls State Park in Georgia is a true gem for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a diverse array of hiking trails that cater to hikers of all skill levels. From the challenging Appalachian Approach Trail to the serene Creek Trail, this park provides a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the region. Whether you’re planning a day hike or a multi-day backpacking adventure, Amicalola Falls State Park has something to offer everyone.
Trails at Amicalola Falls State Park
Amicalola Falls State Park boasts an impressive array of trails, each offering its own unique charm and challenges. Let’s explore the various trails available:
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Appalachian Approach Trail: This 15.5-mile trail is a challenging hike that leads from the park to the southern terminus of the Appalachian Trail at Springer Mountain. It’s a popular choice for those looking to tackle a longer, more strenuous hike.
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Hike Inn Trail: Spanning 9.8 miles, this trail takes hikers from Amicalola Falls to the Len Foote Hike Inn, a backcountry lodge accessible only by trail. This unique experience offers great food, company, and stunning views.
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Amicalola Falls Loop Trail: This 2.1-mile loop trail provides scenic views of the park, including the iconic Amicalola Falls, a 720-foot waterfall. The trail begins under a stone arch commemorating the Appalachian Trail and winds down a series of stairs flanking the waterfall.
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Base-of-the-Falls Trail: This trail takes hikers to the base of the Amicalola Falls, offering breathtaking views of the cascading water and the surrounding forest.
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Creek Trail: This trail follows a serene creek through the park, providing a more peaceful and tranquil hiking experience.
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West Ridge Falls Access Trail: This trail offers one of the best views of the Amicalola Falls and is considered one of the easier trails in the park.
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Lodge Loop Trail: A shorter trail that loops around the lodge area, suitable for those looking for a more leisurely hike.
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Lodge Fitness Trail: A trail designed for those looking to stay active during their visit, with fitness stations along the way.
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Top-of-the-Falls Trail: This trail takes hikers to the top of the Amicalola Falls, offering panoramic views of the surrounding area.
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Mountain Laurel Trail: A trail that winds through the park’s forest, offering scenic views of the mountain laurel and other flora.
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Connector Trails: These trails connect various parts of the park, allowing hikers to create custom routes and explore the park’s diverse landscapes.
Time and Distance Details
The Amicalola Falls State Park trails vary in length and difficulty, catering to hikers of all abilities. Here are the time and distance details for some of the park’s most popular trails:
| Trail | Distance | Time to Complete |
|---|---|---|
| Appalachian Approach Trail | 15.5 miles | 7-8 hours |
| Hike Inn Trail | 9.8 miles | 4-5 hours |
| Amicalola Falls Loop Trail | 2.1 miles | 1-2 hours |
Scenic Comparison: Creek Trail vs. Base-of-the-Falls Trail
Both the Creek Trail and the Base-of-the-Falls Trail offer scenic views, but the Base-of-the-Falls Trail is considered more scenic due to its proximity to the Amicalola Falls and the stunning views it provides of the cascading water.
Contact Information
For more information about Amicalola Falls State Park and its trails, you can contact the park directly:
- Park Phone Number: 706-265-8888
- Emergency Number: 911
- Reservations: 1-800-573-9656