Amicalola Falls State Park Visitors Center is a newly opened facility that offers a range of amenities and exhibits for visitors, serving as the perfect starting point for exploring the natural wonders of the park. From interactive displays showcasing the local wildlife to a cozy coffee bar, this center provides a warm and welcoming atmosphere for outdoor enthusiasts and tour planners alike.
Highlights of the Amicalola Falls State Park Visitors Center
The Amicalola Falls State Park Visitors Center is designed to be a modern and eco-friendly facility that focuses on the park’s natural history and ecology. Here are some of the key highlights of this new center:
Southern Hospitality
The Amicalola Falls State Park Visitors Center embodies the warm and welcoming spirit of the South, providing a comfortable and inviting atmosphere for visitors to begin their journey through the park.
Appalachian Trail Gateway
As the main gateway to the Appalachian Trail, the Visitors Center offers a wealth of information and resources for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can learn about the history and experiences of the iconic trail, which spans over 2,190 miles from Springer Mountain in Georgia to Mt. Katahdin in Maine.
Exhibits and Interactive Displays
The Visitors Center features a range of exhibits and interactive displays that educate visitors about the park’s natural history and local wildlife. Visitors can press buttons to hear the sounds of birds and other animals, helping them familiarize themselves with the creatures they may encounter on the trails.
Coffee Bar and Mini-Market
For those in need of a refreshment or a quick snack before their hike, the Visitors Center offers a cozy coffee bar and a mini-market stocked with deli sandwiches and other provisions.
Meeting Room and Offices
In addition to the public-facing amenities, the Visitors Center also includes a multi-purpose meeting room and offices for the park staff, allowing them to better serve the needs of visitors.
Key Facts and Figures
- Annual Visitors: Amicalola Falls State Park receives approximately 350,000 visitors each year.
- Funding: The new Visitors Center was funded in part by a $2.5 million grant from the Georgia Outdoor Stewardship Program, with additional support from various organizations, including The Appalachian Trail Conservancy, The Georgia Appalachian Trail Club, and Friends of Amicalola State Park.
Visitor Experience
The Amicalola Falls State Park Visitors Center is designed to be the starting point for visitors to plan their hikes, ask park staff questions, and learn about the park’s history and wildlife. Many Appalachian Trail hikers use the center as a last stop before embarking on their journey, often staying at the park lodge the night before and eating breakfast at the Cascades restaurant.
Contact Information
- Phone Number: 706-344-1500
- Website: www.amicalolafallslodge.com