Located in the northeastern part of Georgia, Unicoi State Park is a 1,050-acre park that offers a wide range of outdoor activities and stunning natural beauty. The park is situated in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, near the town of Helen, and is surrounded by the Chattahoochee National Forest. With its unique blend of natural and man-made attractions, Unicoi State Park is a must-visit destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.
History and Overview of Unicoi State Park
Unicoi State Park has a rich history that dates back to the early 20th century. The park was founded in 1954, and since then, it has undergone significant development and expansion. Today, the park offers a wide range of amenities and activities, including hiking and biking trails, a lake, a beach, and a variety of accommodations. The park’s name “Unicoi” is derived from the Cherokee word “uni-gwa,” which means “white,” referring to the white water that flows through the park’s streams and rivers.
Things to Do in Unicoi State Park
Unicoi State Park offers a wide range of activities and attractions that cater to different interests and ages. Some of the popular things to do in the park include:
- Hiking and biking: The park has over 12 miles of trails, ranging from easy to challenging, that offer stunning views of the surrounding mountains and forests.
- Swimming and kayaking: The park’s lake and beach offer a perfect spot for swimming, kayaking, and paddleboarding.
- Fishing: The park’s lake is stocked with trout, bass, and other fish species, making it a great spot for fishing.
- Zip line canopy tours: The park offers a zip line canopy tour that takes visitors through the forest canopy, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
In addition to these activities, the park also offers a range of amenities, including a restaurant, a gift shop, and a variety of accommodations, including cabins, lodges, and campsites.
| Activity | Duration | Difficulty Level |
|---|---|---|
| Hiking | 1-5 hours | Easy to challenging |
| Swimming | 1-2 hours | Easy |
| Fishing | 1-5 hours | Easy to moderate |
| Zip line canopy tours | 2-3 hours | Moderate to challenging |
Accommodations and Dining in Unicoi State Park
Unicoi State Park offers a range of accommodations to suit different budgets and preferences. The park’s cabins and lodges offer comfortable and spacious rooms, while the campsites provide a more rustic and immersive experience. The park’s restaurant, the Unicoi State Park Restaurant, offers a range of Southern-inspired dishes, including burgers, sandwiches, and salads.
Special Events and Programs in Unicoi State Park
Unicoi State Park offers a range of special events and programs throughout the year, including outdoor concerts, festivals, and educational programs. The park’s rangers and naturalists offer guided hikes, nature walks, and wildlife viewing tours, which provide visitors with a deeper understanding of the park’s natural and cultural history.
Some of the popular special events and programs in the park include:
- Full moon hikes: The park offers guided full moon hikes, which take visitors through the forest and offer stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
- Wildlife viewing tours: The park’s rangers and naturalists offer guided wildlife viewing tours, which provide visitors with a chance to see the park’s diverse wildlife, including deer, turkey, and birds.
- Outdoor concerts: The park hosts outdoor concerts and festivals throughout the year, featuring local and regional musicians.
What are the park’s hours of operation?
+The park is open from 7am to 10pm, and the park’s visitor center is open from 8am to 5pm.
Can I bring my pet to the park?
+Pets are allowed in the park, but they must be kept on a leash and are not allowed in the park’s buildings or on the beach.
Are there any restaurants or stores near the park?
+Yes, the town of Helen is located near the park and offers a range of restaurants, shops, and cultural attractions.
