20 Attractions to Explore Near Summerville Train Depot

The Paradise Garden Foundation is renowned for its beautiful and peaceful gardens. It was founded in 2011 by artist and gardener Howard Finster and consists of 4 main acres that span both sides of a narrow road. Each garden provides its own unique experience with multiple outdoor pathways that are lined with colorful sculptures, fountains, a koi pond, prayer stations, walls covered with artwork made by Finster's students and friends, and lush vegetation.

James H. "Sloppy" Floyd State Park,is a wonderful place to enjoy the beauty and culture of the North Georgia Mountains. With twelve miles of hiking and biking trails, two ponds stocked with fish, and a wildlife viewing platform, there are plenty of ways to explore and observe the natural world. There are also five pavilions with picnic tables, grills and areas for playing sports or throwing horseshoes. For those looking to stay awhile, camping sites are available.

The Corpsewood Manor is an interesting story of horror and tragedy. In 1982, Dr. Charles Martin Scudder along with his life-partner Joseph Odom bought the 220 acre Preservationist Estate with plans to restore it into a beautiful dream home. They named it Corpsewood but instead of hard work and dreams they were met with violence and tragedy when they were brutally murdered on Christmas Eve 1983. The murders are still unsolved today, as no one knows who committed them or why.

Rocky Mountain Recreation & Public Fishing area is a great destination for outdoor lovers. With over 70 campsites perfect for both RV's and tent camping, visitors can enjoy the beautiful natural surroundings of this mountainous area. Anglers can test their skills on the stocked trout ponds as well as some of the larger lakes. Furthermore, there are numerous trails extending across the area where hikers can explore and take in the spectacular views.

Pigeon Mountain, is a stunning outdoor paradise. Breathtaking landscapes of rolling hills and open fields await visitors looking to explore the natural beauty of this picturesque region. Outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty to enjoy on Pigeon Mountain—hiking trails that offer stellar views of its jagged cliffs, creeks full of smallmouth bass, and prime camping sites near its riverside bluffs make it an ideal park for a family getaway.

Crockford-Pigeon Mountain Wildlife Management Area is an excellent spot for nature-lovers. Home to a variety of flora and fauna, the area is immensely popular among hikers and bird watchers. Spanning approximately 5,000 acres of lush mountainside vicinity and riverside meadows, the area boasts dozens of species including warblers, pileated woodpeckers, wild turkeys and white-tailed deer. It also has more than 130 species of vascular plants that attribute to its vibrant beauty.

Pettyjohn's Cave has a fascinating history. Used as a hideaway spot by Native Americans and Civil War soldiers, the cave is named after an early settler of the area, Bob Pettyjohn. In 1907 it became home to the American Exploration Company which had plans to mine for gold there. Despite some results from their efforts, the mine was never profitable and eventually fell into disuse. People still explore its depths today and have found archaeological items.

Ellison's Cave is an incredible natural wonder. The cave comprises of two mile-long passages that hold several unique formations, deep pits and spectacular underground waterfalls. This fantastical cavern is often hailed as a top destination for both professional cavers and amateur spelunkers alike. It boasts being the twelfth longest cave system in the United States with a depth of 586 feet.

DeSoto Falls, located in DeKalb County, Alabama, is a magnificent natural wonder that stands as one of the state's most iconic and picturesque waterfalls. Nestled within the Appalachian foothills, DeSoto Falls captivates visitors with its stunning beauty, making it a popular destination for nature lovers, photographers, and outdoor enthusiasts.

This majestic mountain getaway features 7.3 miles of trails which wind through the southern Appalachian Mountains and offer stunning views of the valley below. Along the way, visitors can take in unique rock formations, including a natural rock bridge with a picturesque waterfall streaming underneath it – truly a breathtaking sight. Wildlife watchers will also enjoy being able to observe local songbirds, wildflowers and deer in their natural habitats.

Berry College, is an educational institution with its roots firmly planted in both the academic and spiritual worlds. Founded in 1902 as a Christian liberal arts school by Martha Berry, the college consistently earns high rankings from publications such as U.S. News and World Report for its impressive academic program. The college also offers a robust extra-curricular program with opportunities for leadership and exploration.

DeSoto State Park, located in DeKalb County, Alabama, is a captivating natural oasis that offers visitors a wide range of outdoor recreational opportunities, stunning landscapes, and a tranquil escape into the heart of the Appalachian foothills. This park is known for its natural beauty, diverse ecosystems, and abundant wildlife, making it a popular destination for nature enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers.

Marsh House, is a historic home that has been carefully preserved for over two centuries. At the time of its construction in 1822, it was the first brick house in the area and a fantastic example of pioneer architecture. The house was built by Hugh Marsh using handmade molded bricks which represent the work ethic and dedication of early settlers to the land. Inside, antique furniture, paintings and artifacts tell stories of family life during this period of history.

Oak Hill & Martha Berry Museum rests on the former site of the Berry Schools, founded by Martha Berry in 1909. Visitors to the museum can explore a variety of exhibits sharing the educational and cultural life of the region. The Programs and Performances Gallery hosts interactive programs focused on local music, traditional art forms, and folkloric traditions. In addition, visitors are encouraged to explore two 19th-century buildings located on the grounds.

Little River Canyon National Preserve, located in Cherokee County, Alabama, is a natural gem and a testament to the rugged beauty of the Southern United States. Known as the "Grand Canyon of the East," this preserve offers visitors a unique and awe-inspiring opportunity to explore deep canyons, pristine waterfalls, lush forests, and diverse ecosystems.

Little River Canyon National Preserve, located in DeKalb County, Alabama, is a breathtaking and ecologically significant protected area that showcases the natural beauty of northeastern Alabama. As one of the deepest canyons in the southeastern United States, Little River Canyon offers visitors a chance to explore rugged landscapes, cascading waterfalls, lush forests, and unique geological formations.

Little River Falls, located in Cherokee County, Alabama, is a breathtaking natural wonder and one of the highlights of the Little River Canyon National Preserve. This picturesque waterfall is a stunning example of the beauty that can be found in Alabama's rugged landscapes, drawing nature enthusiasts, photographers, and outdoor adventurers alike.

The Little River Canyon Rim Parkway, located in DeKalb County, Alabama, is a scenic byway that offers travelers a breathtaking journey through the natural beauty of the Little River Canyon National Preserve and the surrounding area. This picturesque roadway provides access to some of the most stunning overlooks, hiking trails, and outdoor adventures in northeastern Alabama.

This Preserve, offers an adventure into stunning natural beauty and a unique ecosystem. Visitors can explore the beautiful canyon by hiking along the rim or wading in the river below. The 15,000-acre preserve encompasses land charged with history of the Creek Indians and Cherokee Nation as well as a number of sites listed on the US National Register of Historic Places. Vistas from high atop Lookout Mountain offer breathtaking views of both the river and towering cliffs below.

Johns Mountain is one of the county's most interesting geographical features, with a combination of rolling hills and steep cliffs that form a unique landscape. The area has several large creeks as well as breathtaking views from the top of the mountain. It is also home to wildlife, including white-tailed deer, wild turkey, and birds like bald eagles and blue-headed vireos. Hiking trails provide access to some beautiful waterfalls, which can be seen along the stream banks.