Amicalola Falls State Park & Lodge

Spectacular scenery and hiking trails make Amicalola Falls State Park & Lodge one of Georgia's most popular state parks. At 729 feet, Amicalola Falls is the tallest cascading waterfall in the Southeast. Visitors have choices on how to best view the tumbling waters, ranging from an accessible pathway to a challenging trail with staircases. Those who tackle the latter can join the park's Canyon Climbers Club. An 8.5-mile trail leads from the park to Springer Mountain, the southern end of the 2,175-mile Appalachian Trail. Numerous other trails provide shorter day hikes.

A mountain-top lodge is popular with guests who prefer hotel comforts, while cottages and a campground offer more rustic accommodations. The park's Maple Restaurant is known for its spectacular views and Sunday brunch buffet. For those seeking adventure, a 5-mile hike leads to the Len Foote Hike Inn, Georgia's only backcountry lodge.

Movie buffs who have seen the Robert Redford and Nick Nolte movie, A Walk in the Woods will definitely recognize the lobby area in front of the huge windows.

Park hours are 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. and all cars require a $5 GA State Park Pass.