But what do you do after you explore this beautiful park? Cloudland Canyon is also located just 20 minutes from Rock City, so if you start your day early, its possible to see both of them on a combined trip! 2009 - 2020 Trailful Outdoor Co. // Made in the mountains of Hiawassee, Georgia. As we neared Cloudland Canyon on GA State Route 136, the road took us up the side of a mountain. This easy 1-mile roundtrip trail takes visitors to an observation deck overlooking the unique meadow ecosystem and fishing pond area of the park. Make sure to bring water and snacks on your hike thoughthere are 600 stairs to conquer to get there. Photo by @wonechung. But with great camping options, why not spend the night? The park is open daily from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. To find out more information about the park and about the trailhead to Cherokee Falls, visit the website. There are two waterfalls at Cloudland Canyon State Park u002du002d Hemlock Falls and Cherokee Falls. A 5-mile moderately strenuous trail, the West Rim Loop provides several overlooks that showcase the parks rugged geology, deep canyons, dense woodland, and views beyond. We're talking thousand-foot-deep canyons, cascading waterfalls, forested landscapes, and so much more. Address: Cloudland Canyon State Park, 122 Cloudland Canyon Park Rd, Rising Fawn, GA 30738, USA. Its up to you whether youd prefer to see it full of lush green vegetation or painted the golden orange and vibrant red colors of the changing season. All photos are copyright Eric Champlin or Summit19 Studio LLC. Its volume and ferocity varies depending on the season you visit and whether or not it has recently rained. Water flow at Hemlock Falls can vary, and Ive been there when it was mostly dried up with little flow. We finally got to the state park after driving for a few hours. This trail is 7.7 km long with an elevation gain of 223 m. According to AllTrails.com, the longest waterfall trail in Cloudland Canyon State Park is Bear Creek Backcountry Trail. if you enjoy this site consider supporting me on. The first mile of the trail will be spent taking you across Daniel Creek to get you to the point where the loop actually begins. You can also stay in one of their yurts or cottages. CONTACT US. I jumped out of the car with my camera bag, eagerly running to the overlook view of the canyon, which luckily isnt too far from the parking lot. What is the longest waterfall trail in Cloudland Canyon State Park? Scattered all over the park, more than 10 geocaches challenge treasure-hunting guests. most difficult ? The moderate 2-mile loop provides access to the parks backcountry campsites but is also a nice hike in itself. Benches along the way offer opportunities for relaxation and contemplation. Dont count on cell phones to work in the wilderness, but if they do, be able to give details about your location. Visitors will marvel at the sharp vertical sandstone cliffs and waterfalls that are scattered throughout the park. Walk along the canyon wall to the right for more incredible views. if you enjoy this site consider supporting me on. If you're looking to camp somewhere with exceptional hiking and beautiful waterfalls, Southeastern Tennessee locals know not to look further than Lookout Mountain. This description will follow the creek upstream making the loop clockwise. Cherokee Falls plunges 60 feet into a clear blue pool of water, Sittons Gulch Creek dropping from an immense, arced rock outcrop. There are 6 waterfall trails in Cloudland Canyon State Park. Cloudland Canyon State Park is the northernmost feature in Georgia's Canyon Climbers Club. I am a real dragon! Hiking Sitton's Gulch is a great option for those who want to get a little more distance than what the 2.1 mile Waterfalls trail has to offer. It falls for 60 feet over the edge of a mossy canyon cliff, and its most striking feature is the gemstone blue pool that forms at its base. Cloudland Canyon State Park is probably one of the nicest state parks in Georgia. Yes, on a leash. From there, you retrace your steps back upward, climbing back to the top of the canyon to complete the hike. Parking is allowed in a tiny lot provided on West Brow Drive and leads visitors to a short 0.1 mile dirt and stone trail down to the viewpoint.Upon Cloudland Rim Loop via East Rim Campground, Hike the West Rim Trail to Cherokee Falls. But combine this with the Sitton's Gulch Trail or the West Rim Loop Trail for a longer adventure. Families, couples, and solo travelers can enjoy mountain biking, fishing, hiking, horseback riding, picnicking, and other activities. Be on the lookout for a couple sharp turns, denoted by a double yellow blaze. If camping's not your thing, you can choose to stay in one of the park's cottages or at an inn or hotel in nearby Lafayette, Georgia, (about 21 miles away) or Chattanooga, Tennessee (about 30 miles away). Get our travel tips Delivered to your inbox. Thirty miles of bike trails and 16 miles of equestrian trails will also keep adventurers busy. RVs and car campers enjoy two modern, shaded campgrounds that include water and electricity for each site. Please dont climb, stand on, swim near, or jump from any waterfall. 2009 - 2020 Trailful Outdoor Co. // Made in the mountains of Hiawassee, Georgia. It is also a bit easier to photograph Hemlock Falls as fewer people are near the falls since there is a viewing platform. When you enter Cloudland Canyon State Park you will drive straight through all of the 4 way stops for about 1 mile before you reach the parking lot for the Waterfall Trail. Options include an 18-hole disc golf course, fishing, geocaching, picnicking, and camping. Our favorites? For those that don't want to settle for either views or waterfalls, enjoy both on this epic short hike. All photos are copyright Eric Champlin or Summit19 Studio LLC. Have energy (and daylight) left to burn? Just make sure to pack your own linens. We started our walk at the bottom of the trail so it is quite easy to begin with. Be sure and hike down to the Main Overlook, arguably the best viewpoint in the park. Look for side trails to several overlooks. I looked over into the valley and noticed we were suddenly above the clouds, which were brightly illuminated by the mid-morning sun. Two waterfalls cascade over layers of sandstone and shale into pools below, with their flow depending on recent rains. There are several waterfalls, each more breath-taking than the one before. The hike reaches the Hemlock Falls wooden viewing platform at just over 1 mile. Tucked away in the northwest corner of Georgia, Cloudland Canyon State Park offers a variety of trails for different skill levels. The CCT offers great workouts for mountain bikers, trail runners, and long-distance hikers. And before you go, always check the trailhead kiosk, official maps, and the park or ranger office for notices of changed routes, trail closures, safety information, and restrictions. The relaxing yurt village consists of a playground, bathroom facilities and 10 unique yurts. The park offers campsites, yurts, cottages and backcountry campsites in the park with close access to the canyons rim. What was your experience? The first waterfall has tons of room around it to explore and take in the sights while the second, lower waterfall has two tiers that offers a slightly more unique presence. Here you will also find free maps and advice. This spot is an absolute gem, and we want to keep it that way! Scattered all over the park, more than 10 geocacheschallenge treasure-hunting guests. Read Next: 100+ Waterfall Quotes and Waterfall Captions for Instagram. Continue down another .15 miles and 200 feet to the intersection with the Sitton's Gulch Trail. Views here from the canyon rim are incredibly beautiful in any season though theyre especially gorgeous in autumn when the canyons deciduous forest explodes in vibrant, colorful fall leaf colors. The winter is usually the best time of year to see the falls in full force. The Cloudland Canyon Waterfalls Trail is rated as strenuous for good reason, but it is so worth it in the end if you can handle the effort. This gorge has been cut into the mountain by the combined waters of Bear and Daniel Creeks. Make sure you bring water and are ready to climb down and then back up 400ft of elevation! However, the trails are open from 7 am to sunset. VISIT OUR SHOP Thirty miles of bike trails and 16 miles of equestrian trails will also keep adventurers busy. This is 100% my favorite place in the entire park! Once you arrive back at the footbridge and beginning of the loop, take the connector part of the trail back to the other side of the canyon and trailhead. Now you have to deal with the consequences of your actions and climb back up. The Cloudland Canyon Waterfalls Trail departs from the East Rim parking area (view maps and driving directions), hiking the paved trail that skirts the canyons eastern walls. All Rights Reserved. The Waterfall trail will follow the yellow markers to the left when looking at the Canyon. The Waterfalls Trail consists almost entirely of stairs and steep inclines, descending almost 400 feet in roughly just a mile. Take a map, water, snacks, first aid kit, flashlight, and whistle. The Waterfall Trail at Cloudland Canyon offers a descent down steep canyon walls as well as 2 beautiful waterfalls awaiting you at the bottom. Hike a strenuous stretch of the Fiery Gizzard Trail, exploring tumbling cascades in a mossy, boulder-filled forest and scoring beautiful vistas at Raven Point. Home to thousand-foot deep canyons, sandstone cliffs, wild caves, waterfalls, cascading creeks, dense woodland and abundant wildlife, the park offers ample outdoor recreation. His mission? Cloudland Canyon, located on the western edge of Lookout Mountain, is a picturesque state park with rocky geology and spectacular scenery in the US State of Georgia.With its breathtaking landscape, foot-deep gorges, sandstone cliffs, wild caverns, waterfalls, flowing rivers, lush woods, and plentiful animals, the park provides several outdoor activities and features . Photo by @alvinxiong. If you want not to climb as many steps, you can see Cherokee Falls and make your way back up to the top of the valley instead of descending further to see Hemlock Falls. Offering picturesque views into the canyon, the Overlook Trail is a flat, easy, one-mile roundtrip path. This trail is estimated to be 11.7 km long. Not too far from the park entrance and the overlook, youll find the Interpretative Center along with many picnic tables. This return hike is exhausting. Season Dates Max reservation window: View all Booking Window Backcountry Campsite Wed May 31 2023 - Sun Jun 30 2024 Reservations can be made for today and can be made up to 13 Month (s) in advance. The most popular trail at Cloudland Canyon State Park, the Waterfalls Trail takes you down 600 steps to the base of two impressive waterfalls. I love photographing this waterfall, and it is a popular photo spot for many. A disc golf course featuring 18 baskets weaves through fields . Hemlock Falls sits amidst colorful falling leaves near the canyon floor at Cloudland, requiring a longer walk than Cherokee Falls. But what a treasure once you are there. The Cloudland Canyon waterfalls are known for being the most beautiful in the state, but theres so much more to see during your stay. FIND YOUR WAY OUTSIDE is a trademark of AllTrails, LLC. It leads along the rim of the canyon to the Main Overlook, then continues onto a second overlook. A disc golf course featuring 18 basketsweaves through fields and forest, and several playgrounds are located throughout the park. The Waterfalls Trail is a strenuous, 1.8-mile roundtrip hike that involves 600 stairsteps one way. Visitors who take the trail are rewarded with the sight of Cherokee Falls after mile and then Hemlock Falls about mile further down the canyon. Cabins #2 and 3 are ADA accessible. For a full-size PDF map of Cloudland Canyon State Park, including all its trails, restrooms, and other notable areas, please see the link here. Walking straight, past the trailhead and previous overlooks, the West Rim trail continues along the canyon wall. From downtown Atlanta, take I-75 North approximately 72 miles to Exit 320. The gorgeous tree canopy keeps the trail temperatures pretty comfortable and the views are spectacular. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. November 20, 2021 by Jess Last Updated on March 3, 2022 It was foggy for most of our morning drive to see the Cloudland Canyon Waterfalls. If you have a large group, Cloudland Canyon also has one 4-bedroom, 20-bed group lodge that sleeps up to 40 total people. Tubing in Georgia: A Must-Have Summer Adventure, 10 Best Things to Do this Summer in Georgia, The Best 4th of July Celebrations in Georgia, Chickamauga & Chattanooga National Military Park. Here, the loop part of the trail begins. Hikers also share the trail with mountain bikers for 14 miles on the Cloudland Connector. Get immediate gratification with amazing views right from the parking lot. More than 100 parking spot across several small lots. The moderate 2-mile loop provides access to the parks backcountry campsites but is also a nice hike in itself. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. It is a gorgeous waterfall, so I did not blame them for wanting to get lots of pictures of it with some pretty awesome yoga moves. Reluctantly, I turned around and began my descent into the valley. From there, Sittons Gulch Trail continues on, running parallel with the boulder-strewn creeks for most of its journey as it descends even deeper into the canyon until eventually reaching the Canyon Park Drive parking lot near Sittons Cave. In the winter the flow of the waterfall is much greater than the drier summer months. After enjoying the Falls you will return back the way you came. Outside of the park, chase some more ultra-scenic waterfall adventures near Chattanooga. Length Approximately 2 miles roundtrip.Difficulty Strenuous.Steps 600 steps to see both waterfalls (some steps are metal-grated).Dogs Allowed? Backcountry site #3 is less than a quarter mile from the Bear Creek Trail, a connection to the Overlook Trail allowing access via hike to the parks main trailhead. Begin your descent into the canyon, passing under huge rock outcroppings and along dripping rocky walls. While Cloudland Canyon Waterfalls Trail is a popular hiking trail, there are many things to do when you visit this state park. Campsite Electric Wed May 31 2023 - Sun Jun 30 2024 This is by far the most difficult part of this trail. CONTACT US. This heavily trafficked trail is a little over 2 miles round trip. Cookies collect information about your preferences and your devices and are used to make the site work as you expect it to, to understand how you interact with the site, and to show advertisements that are targeted to your interests. 10 Best Cloudland Canyon State Park Waterfalls, Trails, & Things to Do. Cloudland Canyon is one of Georgia's most scenic and beautiful state parks and an outdoor paradise for hiking and camping. As one of the biggest state parks in the state, Cloudland Canyon features a bevy of scenic attractions throughout the park. Cloudland Canyons Cherokee Falls is the first of the two gorgeous waterfalls you will be rewarded with at the end of the Waterfalls Trail hike, reached at around the half-mile mark. You will have to back track to the fork to continue down the canyon to Hemlock Falls. Waterfall at Cloudland Canyon State Park. Follow GA-136 West for 50 miles, and then turn onto Cloudland Canyon Park Road. The Cloudland Canyon Waterfalls Trail will take hikers down into the canyon floor where not just one but TWO gorgeous waterfalls await-Cherokee Falls and Hemlock Falls. Directions Park information Acreage 3,485 acres Park hours Monday 7:00 am - 10:00 pm Tuesday 7:00 am - 10:00 pm Wednesday A sign will point the way to Sittons Gulch trail, continuing on to the right. Then the loop will continue onward for 3 more miles before bringing you back to your original spot. To see even more of our state's natural beauty up close and personal (but without the hike! If you venture onto the Cloudland Canyon Waterfalls Trail, it can be even trickier as it is much darker in the valley, and most of the time, you are in shadow. Hike back up is a pain in the butt, but well worth it. Trailful Outdoor Co. and the Atlanta Trails logo are registered trademarks of Summit19 Studio LLC.Privacy Policy | Terms of Use No photo, illustration, data, or text on this website may be reproduced, published, or distributed without prior written permission and license. When you enter Cloudland Canyon State Park you will drive straight through all of the 4 way stops for about 1 mile before you reach the parking lot for the Waterfall Trail. Required fields are marked *. There are restrooms here as well. The fall foliage, along with the cloud, really created an extraordinary scene; I stood a few minutes in awe, taking it all in. https://youtu.be/Sna8G9eDK4g #Hike #hikingadventures #outdoors # . Photographing with film at Cloudland Canyon was a bit tricky on the day we went. Luckily for me, the Hemlock Falls exposures shot on Eterna 250T came out great, however. It is about 1/2 mile down to see Cherokee Falls and another 1/2 mile down to see Hemlock Falls. The Waterfalls Trail is a strenuous, 1.8-mile roundtrip hike that involves 600 stairsteps one way. The most popular way to access the Cloudland Canyon Waterfalls Trail is from the West Rim Loop Trail, located not too far from the parking lot and the Overlook Trail. You can check campsite availability, see a map of campsite locations, and book your preferred campsite at Cloudland Canyon here. If you're looking for elevation gain, Cloudland Canyon State Park has you covered. Have you been to Cloudland Canyon State Park before? I shot seventeen images at the overlook at Cloudland Canyon, and I am glad I did since I only got four decent exposures. If you're looking for elevation gain, Cloudland Canyon State Park has you covered. The CCT offers great workouts for mountain bikers, trail runners, and long-distance hikers. If youre looking for a campsite that requires a hike before reaching your place of rest, theres also 13 backcountry campsites available, as well as 4 pioneer campsites which prove an Adirondackshelter for your use overnight. Its one of the best spots in the park for viewing the canyon, and you dont even have to go on a hike to see it. The 5-mile West Rim Loop highlights the beauty of Georgia's northwest region on one of the nation's most scenic hiking trails. The popular 14-mile Cloudland Connector Trail is a wide, beginner-friendly path through the scenic wooded forest, while the Slickinslide Trail and the Torino Trail offer technical descents with rock drops. 2023 Adventure Dragon. Tucked away in the northwest corner of Georgia, Cloudland Canyon State Park offers a variety of trails for different skill levels. Cloudland Canyon is a 4388-acre park that straddles a 1000 foot deep gorge. The trail switchbacks up the hillside, gaining 150 feet in elevation. For out-and-back hikes, elevation loss is the same as the gain. May 14, 2023 . Tucked away in the northwest corner of Georgia, Cloudland Canyon State Park offers a variety of trails for different skill levels. Primary overlook at Cloudland Canyon State Park. The Top 12 Places to Go Hiking in Georgia, Wind Cave National Park: The Complete Guide, Skidaway Island State Park: The Complete Guide, Sweetwater Creek State Park: The Complete Guide, The Best Campsites and Lodges Near Mount St. Helens, McArthur-Burney Falls Memorial State Park: The Complete Guide, The 10 Best Places to Go Camping in Alabama, Chimney Rock State Park: The Complete Guide, Great Basin National Park: The Complete Guide, Yellowstone National Park: The Complete Guide. Backcountry site #7 is the furthest from the parking area and the most remote, offering seclusion from the other camping sites. Theres a $5 fee for parking at Cloudland Canyon State Park (as well as any other state park in Georgia). All intersections are well marked. It's easy to fill a day or a week with fun and adventure in the great outdoors of Cloudland Canyon. Its uniquely pretty and feels almost enchanting, like someplace magical that youd expect to find in a Studio Ghibli film, perhaps, but its right here in Georgia at Cloudland Canyon State Park. The Waterfall Trail at Cloudland Canyon offers a descent down steep canyon walls as well as 2 beautiful waterfalls awaiting you at the bottom. Description Located on the western edge of Lookout Mountain, Cloudland Canyon is a scenic state park offering rugged geology and beautiful vistas. It's over 600 stairs in total to get to both waterfalls, but each worth the trek. While I heard that it is a good film and popular with making motion pictures, I do not think it was the best choice for Cloudland Canyon as the colors were way too vibrant and contrasty. Cloudland also has a group lodge and shelters that can be reserved for parties, as well as cottages, yurts, campsites, and backcountry campsites. There are many parking spaces, but I recommend coming early to ensure you get a spot if you visit during peak seasons or weekends. The parking area does have restrooms and picnic tables if you would like to bring a lunch. More primitive "backcountry" sites are scattered throughout, complete with water and hookups, but no bathrooms. Steeply-chiseled canyon walls hug the trails sides for much of the descent and posted signs warn of the danger of falling rock from overhead. There are also several side trails going towards the interior of the loop for cabin rentals, so no need to explore these. : No. Unfortunately, there was nowhere to stop with our car to take in this stunning view, but it gave me hope that we might see a cloud inversion at Cloudland Canyon State Park something Ive always wanted to see. It can be a raging rapids or a tranquil stream. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Quick Info for Cloudland Canyon Waterfalls Trail, Hiking the Cloudland Canyon Waterfalls Trail, Accessing the Cloudland Canyon Waterfalls Trail, More Information on How to Visit Cloudland Canyon State Park, Explore the Best North Georgia Waterfalls. This fall is particularly beautiful, falling 60ft into a large pool partly surrounded by an arcing rocks wall. Hiking to see the Cloudland Canyon waterfalls was our main goal for the day. He's the co-owner of Trailful Outdoor Co, a locally-owned hiking outfitter shop in Hiawassee in the Georgia mountains near the Appalachian Trail. At the junction for the two falls, go left to Cherokee Falls (Waterfall #1), just .1 miles away. Good thing there are benches on the way up to sit down and catch your breath. Most of the rest of the way is straight down along grated metal staircases. From the Main Trailhead, hikers drop down to cross over Daniel Creek, then proceed uphill to a rocky promontory. For instance, I did this at Brasstown Bald and ended up with sixteen sunrise photos, which I dont regret shooting. Waterfalls in Georgia: top hikes and adventures to more than twenty falls, Atlantas best hiking trails our top 10 favorite hikes, North Georgia hiking trails our top 10 favorite hikes, Seven Georgia waterfall hikes, two miles or less, Georgia Appalachian Trail: great Georgia hikes under 6 miles, Appalachian Trail: Dicks Creek Gap to Bly Gap, NC, Cumberland Island camping, hiking, and backpacking guide, Lake Conasauga: Grassy Mountain Tower Trail, Slaughter Mountain and Lake Winfield Scott Loop, AT Approach Trail: hiking Amicalola Falls to Springer Mountain, Hike these 10 great Georgia hikes to Georgias best views, Unicoi Gap to Rocky Mountain on the Appalachian Trail, Sope Creek Trail: hiking the mill ruins and pond loop, Our favorite spots to hang an ENO hammock. Stay on the marked trail, tell someone where you're going, pack safety and wayfinding essentials, and don't rely on a mobile phone to find your way. To better ensure your success in seeing more water flow, it might be best to visit after heavy rain. Its one of my favorite sights to see in the entire park, and theres even a couple benches located right in front of it for you to take a quick rest, if needed. The West Rim Loop, a 4.8 mile lollipop loop, offers a journey for those looking for adventure without too much difficulty. So foggy that it was tough not to stop and take many pictures as the fog created dramatic landscapes with North Georgias fall foliage, farmhouses, and barns. The waterfall trail would be better for beginners with great views, but it does have a lot steps. The 1-mile level gravel road from the parking area to the falls and lake is the easiest path, but exploring the web of forest trails Sunset Rock provides spectacular access to the Bluff and Gum Spring Trails for hiking, is home to some of the top trad climbing routes in the area, and is perfect for residents and visitors alike who are seeking a great view of the Chattanooga area. Hes also the co-founder of Atlanta Trails and Asheville Trails, digital magazines that highlight the Souths best outdoor adventures. Located on the western edge, Cloudland Canyon State Park straddles Sitton Gulch Creek and is perfect for a weekend exploration.If staying a night or two, your accommodation options are (almost) endless. We'll be back! And, yurt glamping can be had at the park's main campground. Ive never had the opportunity to stay the night at Cloudland Canyon State Park, but they have campsites (tent, trailer, and RV) you can reserve. This park was formed by water cutting through rock to form a deep gorge on the western edge of Lookout Mountain. To get there from Lafayette, take GA-27 North to GA-136 East (Lookout Mountain Scenic Highway) until you reach Cloudland Canyon Park Road. Theres over 600 stairs in total, and once youve trod down all of them, you eventually will have to climb back up each and every one. Continue following the creek downstream, crossing the wooden bridge just below Hemock Falls on the Sittons Gulch Trail. There can be a few muddy places along here, but the trail is well maintained. Hike the Waterfalls Trail to two towering waterfalls nestled deep within the gorge, tumbling from enormous, curved rock outcrops. Its by far my favorite hike in Cloudland Canyon! Colorful mosses, lichen, and vines cling to the enormous rock wall, and mossy boulders litter the canyon floor beneath the falls. More information and how to purchase this pass can be found here. They even have disc golf and caving for experienced cavers (permits required). Eterna 250T is a tungsten-balanced film, and since I was shooting daylight, I had to do a lot of editing in Lightroom to balance the color shifts. Email will only be used to send a verification link for first time use with this username and to authenticate the username for further reviews/comments. The quantity of water over the falls varies greatly from month to month, but, in general, winter and early spring offer the greatest flow. The 3,485-acre recreational area is situated on the Cumberland Plateau on Lookout Mountain, 30 miles southwest of Chattanooga and 125 miles northwest of Atlanta. The park's most popular trail, the Cloudland Canyon Waterfalls Trail, drops from the canyon's towering walls to its floor and hikes to two stunning waterfalls, Cherokee Falls and Hemlock Falls. The Outbound works best with JavaScript enabled. Adult bike rentals, complete with helmets, are available at the visitor's center at the park's main entrance. Head to Cloudland Canyon State Park to access some of Georgia's best hiking trails, campsites, and scenery. Ive heard that sometimes you might not see much water flow, but weve been lucky each time at Cherokee Falls as Sitton Gulch Creek plunges off a 60-foot cliff into a shallow pool. Im definitely not a kitten masquerading as a dragon, no matter what they say! . While alcohol is permitted in cabins, yurts, and campsites, it is prohibited in public areas. Head to the right to reach the Main Overlook, offering the best view of the canyon with less obstruction from surrounding trees. According to AllTrails.com, the longest waterfall trail in Cloudland Canyon State Park is. The trail quickly turns to gravel/dirt then comes to a junction, but reconnects to itself shortly. WEBSITE RESERVATIONS: https://gastateparks.org/Reservations or 1-800-864-7275 ACCOMMODATIONS: There are 16 Cloudland Canyon cabins. This waterfall in particular is Cherokee Falls in Cloudland Canyon State Park, just across the border in North Georgia. Laura Scholz is an Atlanta-based freelance writer and editor who has called Atlanta home since 2000. Explore more trails at Cloudland Canyon State Park. And be careful where you step, especially down at the waterfalls, as the rocks can be slippery. Peavine Falls Oak Mountain State Park, Pelham Peavine Falls, a 65-foot tall, spring-fed waterfall, is located inside beautiful Oak Mountain State Park in Pelham, Alabama. Ive been to Cloudland Canyon several times previously and have never been fortunate to see a cloud in the valley. The waterfall varies in intensity with seasonal rainfall, ranging from a roaring drop to a mere trickle. For instance, in this park, the parking lot to the overlook is made of a hard surface suitable for wheelchairs. In addition to hiking and biking among the mountain landscapes, guests enjoy days filled with fun and games. #5 - Cherokee Falls to Hemlock Falls via Bear Creek Trail, #6 - Walk-in Campsites to Sitton's Gulch Trail, We also took the waterfall trial, beware approximate 1000 steps in and out. Photo by @_asipoftee_. With open floor plans, heat and bunk beds, yurts offer a more rustic feel a short distance from the scenic West Rim Trail. Go underground, get muddy and experience Cloudland Canyon's wild cave. Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your Please explore responsibly! Writer. Then put in a little work to hike down to two impressive waterfalls. One of these massive rocky cliffs has water that drips down from the green moss hanging on its surface. The trail crosses a variety of surfaces as it drops elevation, alternating between dirt paths, wooden boardwalks, and long stretches of metal stairs. Explore the meadowland on the grassy paths. Our camping gear list features our favorite tents, sleeping bags, furniture, cookware, and campsite essentials. Originally the land was all privately . There is, however, a small portion of this trail where the route deviates from the flat path and descends down a handful of rocky steps in order to reach 2 different overlook points. Together they (and a team of dragonriders) aspire to explore every continent and encourage all whom they encounter to never stop believing in their dreams. Where is the best waterfall trail to hike in Cloudland Canyon State Park? Great campgrounds and picnic areas. Taking a right from the previous junction, the second waterfall is .3 miles away; however, this is a much more strenuous trail, travelling down flight after flight of steps until finally reaching the canyon floor. Please refer to the official trail map for the most current and accurate route. In the real Cloudland Canyon, a state park in Rising Fawn, Georgia, waterfalls tumble over sandstone cliffs into a 1,000-foot-deep canyon. And for that reason, I always carry hand sanitizer as some of these restrooms do not have hand soap! And before you go, always check the trailhead kiosk, official maps, and the park or ranger office for notices of changed routes, trail closures, safety information, and restrictions. By overexposing, I correctly exposed the clouds tones. Photo by @ndb_1. Cloudland Canyon, Georgia. Furnished cottages near the hub of park activities feature separate bedrooms, kitchens, full bathsand TV. So foggy that it was tough not to stop and take many pictures as the fog created dramatic landscapes with North Georgia's fall foliage, farmhouses, and barns. FAIRY DRAGON MOTHER at Adventure Dragon. During the winter and early spring months, the leaves will be dead and trees will be bare, so Cloudland Canyon will appear as a duller, greyish color. To the second falls, it is another 335 steps, making the total going up from the second falls back to the West Rim trail a total of 467 steps and almost 400 feet in elevation change. There is a viewing platform to view this waterfall as you cannot walk down closer to it. ABOUT Cloudland Canyon State Park, GA 813 Ratings Add to Favorites Status: Open year round. Two of these (#1 & 3) are 3-bedroom cottages, while three are dog-friendly (#3, 6 & 7). Lots of steps on the way back out but well worth it! First dive deep into the canyon for two impressive waterfalls. Wildflowers abound along the lower section of the trail in springtime. When you visit the site, Dotdash Meredith and its partners may store or retrieve information on your browser, mostly in the form of cookies. Named after Jacob Sitton, an early settler on Lookout Mountain and owner of a prominent sawmill, Sittons Gulch Trail is a strenuous 6-mile roundtrip hike that parallels cascading, boulder-strewn creeks downward to the mouth of Cloudland Canyon. 2023 The Outbound Collective - Terms of Use - Privacy Policy. Cloudland Canyon State Park in northwest Georgia thrills visitors with rugged geology and beautiful vistas. Then navigate the rim for expansive views. This easy 1-mile roundtrip trail takes visitors to an observation deck overlooking the unique meadow ecosystem and fishing pond area of the park. Unfortunately, no swimming is allowed. ), a road trip to Georgia's most beautiful covered bridges is picture-perfect in every season. Frequently asked questions about waterfall trails in Cloudland Canyon State Park. Portions of the CCT are also open to horseback riding. IN THE NEWS Always remember to pack out everything you pack in, and leave no trace. The West Rim Loop, a 4.8 mile lollipop loop, offers a journey for those looking for adventure without too much difficulty. This map shows our approximate route while exploring this trail, but does not replace an official trail map. The trail clings to the rock wall, passing several interesting formations. The left trail goes to Cherokee Falls and the right trail goes to Hemlock Falls. This bit of extra distance will separate you from a lot of the weekend crowd and will expose you to two more waterfalls, in addition to Cherokee and Hemlock Falls. This hike has it all. Explore more trails at Cloudland Canyon State Park. Dogs are not allowed in cabins or yurts. Named after Jacob Sitton, an early settler on Lookout Mountain and owner of a prominent sawmill, Sittons Gulch Trail is a strenuous 6-mile roundtrip hike that parallels cascading, boulder-strewn creeks downward to the mouth of Cloudland Canyon. Waterfalls in Georgia: top hikes and adventures to more than twenty falls, Atlantas best hiking trails our top 10 favorite hikes, North Georgia hiking trails our top 10 favorite hikes, Seven Georgia waterfall hikes, two miles or less, Georgia Appalachian Trail: great Georgia hikes under 6 miles, Appalachian Trail: Dicks Creek Gap to Bly Gap, NC, Cumberland Island camping, hiking, and backpacking guide, Lake Conasauga: Grassy Mountain Tower Trail, Slaughter Mountain and Lake Winfield Scott Loop, AT Approach Trail: hiking Amicalola Falls to Springer Mountain, Hike these 10 great Georgia hikes to Georgias best views, Unicoi Gap to Rocky Mountain on the Appalachian Trail, Sope Creek Trail: hiking the mill ruins and pond loop, Our favorite spots to hang an ENO hammock, Cloudland Canyon State Park adventure guide. Hike to Cloudland Canyons stunning views and tumbling waterfalls, and sleep under the stars at the parks best campsites. So it's super family friendly. Additionally, there are ADA accessible services and amenities in both the campground and the visitor's center. Cloud inversion is something that I rarely see, so I wanted to ensure I got at least one exposure that I love! On the way back, I exited GPS on my phone and could not get the route to resume due to a lack of cell service. The Cloudland Canyon Waterfalls Trail will take hikers down into the canyon floor where not just one but TWO gorgeous waterfalls awaitCherokee Falls and Hemlock Falls. Fun rides for beginners include the relatively level Shale Flats, flowing Peace Can Trail, and the rolling hillside on Mick's Trail. Although its still pretty even at that time of year, its definitely not our favorite time to visit then. Just before the Waterfalls Trail starts its series of steep (and seemingly endless) stairs in descent to the gorge floor below, youll pass by this huge boulder. As much as I loved the view of the valley at the overlook, I knew we had to start the trail, or we would never make it home by nightfall. The trekking poles were helpful around the waterfalls, however. You can bring your dog along, but keep him on a leash and skip the Waterfalls Trailthe small, metal grates on the path's stairs are not pup-friendly. To inspire others to get fit outdoors and explore the Souths incredible scenic beauty. You have the option of visiting one or both waterfalls, and there will be a sign near the beginning of the trail indicating which direction to go. The hikes many stairs are a workout, for sure: but the beauty of the falls make the hike so worthwhile. Dreamer. Bats make their homes in the caves and stalactites and stalagmites cover the floors and ceilings. Thanks to recent rains, a strong flow poured a broad stream of water over . Cloudland Canyon West Rim Loop & Waterfalls Trails. Find the most spectacular view into the canyon near the picnic area parking lot. You will also probably see some signs along the Cloudland Canyon Waterfalls Trail notifying you to be careful of falling rock. The Park. With towering, near-vertical canyon walls, lush forest, plunging waterfalls, towering trees and a rocky landscape, it's easily one of our favorite hiking destinations in our state. To the first fall, it is another 41 steps. Eric Champlin is a creative director and photographer who loves to explore southeast. If you want to get that waterfall shot without people in it, you might want to go early as possible. The quantity of water over the falls varies greatly from month to month, but, in general, winter and early spring offer the greatest flow. There's even a Muddy Spokes Bike Club that encourages the use of Georgia's state parks as places to get outside and be active. North Georgias Cloudland Canyon offers stunning views deep into its waterfall-filled depths and across its wide expanse. Nestled in Georgia's northwest corner, Cloudland Canyon State Park offers up paradise on the western edge of Lookout Mountain. North Georgia's Cloudland Canyon offers stunning views deep into its waterfall-filled depths and across its wide expanse. adventures and follow local regulations. Watch for ice on the steps in places! Nearing the canyon floor, we chose the trail's North fork, heading first to Hemlock Falls and then a bit further on the Sitton Gulch Trail. Cherokee Falls plunges 60 feet into a large aqua blue pool. Although large, it will still fill up fast on weekends. All Rights Reserved. Cherokee falls has some great rocks to sit and have a picnic. The Cloudland Canyon Overlook Trail can be accessed just a few easy steps from the parking lot. Explore the most popular waterfall trails in Cloudland Canyon State Park with hand-curated trail maps and driving directions as well as detailed reviews and photos from hikers, campers and nature lovers like you. Cloudland Canyon Waterfalls Trail The most popular trail at Cloudland Canyon State Park, the Waterfalls Trail takes you down 600 steps to the base of two impressive waterfalls. There are areas on the hike where the stairs level off and provide small benches for you to take a rest, but your calves will likely be burning. Many miles of prime hiking and backpacking trails blanket the parks terrain, looping and diving and climbing to the parks most remote, most beautiful, and most popular sights. In addition to these cottages, there are also 10 heated yurts available for rent for up to 6 people. After you get your fill of views, follow the trail along the canyon wall to the left, following yellow blazes. Cloudland Canyon State Park is a 3,485 acres (14.10 km 2) Georgia state park located near Trenton and Cooper Heights on the western edge of Lookout Mountain. The pathway has a lot of rocky cliffs and giant boulders that are right above your head as you make your descent. If you only do one trail in the park, this is the trail to do. 1 Mile Round Trip | Easy Offering impressive views of the state park's rugged canyons and dense woodland, the easy Overlook Trail meanders along the rim of Cloudland Canyon for approximately mile. Theres 72 tent, trailer, and RV campsites that have electric and water hookups available. The trail reaches the trailhead at just over 2 miles, completing the view-packed adventure. For the best times to visit to increase your chances of seeing the falls at its bluest and prettiest, see our separate guide on Cherokee Falls (coming soon, will add link here once posted). You can access both falls via the aptly-named Waterfalls Trail. You can call the state park ahead of time to get an idea of what it is going to look like. There is also a small public restroom, a luxury compared to outhouses at other hiking trails in North Georgia. Cloudland Canyon has two waterfalls that tumble over layers of sandstone and shale into pools below. Rating: This is a moderately strenuous trail at Cloudland Canyon State Park. The trail itself is just a 2-mile roundtrip trek, but dont let that short distance fool youthis is not an easy hike! 34.834667, -85.480517 // N34 50.080 W85 28.831. After a tenth of a mile, take the trail to the left for the first of two waterfalls. Cloudland Canyon State Park is located in Rising Fawn, Georgia, near the closest major town of Lafayette. The Hemlock Falls Trail in Cloudland Canyon is truly a sight to see, not just because of the overlook, but because there is a waterfall finish! DURATION 3-4 hours. With so much to do at Georgia's 63 state parks and historic sites, it can be hard to decide where to begin! My eye was okay as it was just water, but my eye felt a little icky afterward! Hike the popular Waterfalls Trail at Cloudland Canyon State Park. With miles of hiking and mountain biking trails, on-site disc golf, fishing, and horseback riding, Cloudland Canyon offers plenty of activities for all ages and ability levels. In the summer, thousands of wild blackberries are ripe for picking. But if you are trying to get the streamy flowy waterfall look for your image, you will need to be careful with people walking on the platform as it vibrates slightly with the movement. Check out our favorite. Ive only hiked parts of this trail since I always spend too much time at the waterfalls and never have enough daylight time to continue. The climb out of the canyon may challenge you just a little. AllTrails Laureli Srery The location offers easy access to Rock City Gardens, Chickamauga & Chattanooga National Military Park, and several sites along the Chieftains Trail. The 14 Most Amazingly Beautiful Places in the 9 Stylish, Cute Outfits for Greece & Trendy 16 Best Ways to Experience Christmas in Helen 14 Beautiful Places in Guatemala to Visit on 100+ Waterfall Quotes and Waterfall Captions for Instagram, Perfect Weekend in Atlanta Itinerary from a Local for 2022. Cloudland Canyon is a southern wildland gem. There are lots of shadows, highlights, and contrast scenes with various colors and tones. The trailhead is the same as the Waterfall trail trailhead, at the end of Cloudland Canyo Lula Lake Land Trust may only be accessible on the first and last Saturday of every month, but a visit to this North Georgia park is well worth planning for. And if you are up for a challenge, after viewing Hemlock Falls, you can continue your hiking journey onto the Sittons Gulch Trail. It is only $5 to enter and park at Cloudland Canyon. Unlike most of the other lengthy hikes in Cloudland Canyon State Park, this one stays near the top of the canyon, exploring its western rim rather than diving deep into its depth to traverse the canyon floor. At 729 feet, Amicalola Falls is the tallest cascading waterfall in the Southeast. A 5-mile moderately strenuous trail, the West Rim Loop provides several overlooks that showcase the parks rugged geology, deep canyons, dense woodland, and views beyond. The overall scene here was super contrasty as my shadows were in the forefront of the exposure, and with the rising sun, I had more highlights in the background. , thousands of wild blackberries are ripe for picking natural beauty up close and personal but! Public restroom, a strong flow poured a broad stream of water over camping options, why not spend night... Passing several interesting formations hand sanitizer as some of these restrooms do not have hand soap open from 7 to... 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