Travel tips for Georgia leaf peepers
Mark of the Potter and other popular attractions.
Gastateparks.org/moccasincreek
Smithgall Woods State Park — Helen
Protecting more than 6,000 acres around Dukes Creek, this is the perfect spot for fly fishing while enjoying fall color. Day visitors can picnic near the creek, and overnight guests can hike a private trail to Dukes Creek Falls. A 1.6-mile loop climbs to Laurel Ridge and provides a view of Mt. Yonah once most leaves are off the trees. Smithgall Woods has some of the park system’s most sought-after cabins and is near wineries and Helen’s Oktoberfest.
Gastateparks.org/smithgallwoods
Tallulah Gorge State Park — Near Clayton
Tallulah Gorge is one of the most spectacular canyons in the Southeast, and you can choose from easy or difficult trails. Hike along the rim to overlooks with waterfall views, or get a permit from the park office to trek all the way to the bottom. (Permits run out early on weekend mornings.) During November, you can watch expert kayakers as they enjoy “whitewater releases.”
Gastateparks.org/tallulahgorge
Unicoi State Park — Helen
Ziplines take you high above the forest canopy for a unique view of leaves. If you’re up for a steep hike, take the 4.8mile Smith Creek Trail up to Anna Ruby Falls. Unicoi offers a lodge and restaurant. Gastateparks.org/unicoi Vogel State Park — Blairsville
The 4-mile Bear Hair Gap Trail makes a nice day trip for experienced hikers, offering a birds-eye view of the park’s lake. For an easier walk, follow the Lake Loop to a small waterfall below the dam. The twisting roads around Vogel, particularly Wolf Pen Gap Road, offer some of north Georgia’s prettiest fall scenery. Gastateparks.org/vogel Suggested Tweet: Leaf peepers find best #fallcolor on @Gastateparks Leafwatch travel planner. #cabins #camping #Galeafwatch #GastateParks #fall #falltravel #autumnleaves Gastateparks. org/leafwatch
Suggested Facebook Post: Leaf peepers, find the top Georgia State Parks for fall color on the “Leaf Watch” travel planner. You’ll find the best trails, fall events, cabins, campsites and hiking tips.
Shutterbugs can share their favorite shots on Facebook and Instagram, tagging #Galeafwatch and @Gastateparks. Gastateparks.org/leafwatch
Web address: Gastateparks.org/leafwatch