20 Attractions to Explore Near Appalachian Trail Southern Terminus

Springer Mountain is a popular destination for hikers and outdoor recreation enthusiasts. The mountain is most well-known as the southern terminus of the well-traveled Appalachian Trail. At 3,780 feet above sea level, Springer Mountain offers sweeping views from its summit, making it an ideal spot for photography. Its rolling slopes are also covered in thick foliage along with evergreens like white pines and table mountain pines.

Springer Mountain Trailhead is an amazing place for nature lovers and outdoors enthusiasts. Located in the Chattahoochee National Forest, it is home to the southern terminus of the Appalachian Trail and provides access to some of the most breathtaking mountain scenery in the region. With nearly 3 miles of steep, rocky terrain filled with bluffs, waterfalls, and tall trees, it offers plenty of opportunities for hikers and advanced climbers alike.

Len Foote Hike Inn offers a unique way to immerse oneself in nature. Located five miles from Amicalola Falls State Park, this rustic retreat features 20 cozy cottages that allow visitors to experience the beauty of the outdoors with all of the comforts of home. All meals are included with a two-night stay, and there is also a laundry service for guests. Plus, access to 22 miles of trails and trips to nearby destinations can be arranged for those looking for adventure.

The Blue Ridge WMA provides a unique wildlife viewing and recreational experience. Covering more than 4700 acres of heavily forested mountains, this area is a haven for many species of birds, mammals and other wildlife. Visitors to the area can enjoy activities like hunting, fishing, hiking and camping while taking in the picturesque surroundings, which include waterfalls and rolling hills. The WMA also offers access to trout streams, hunting camps, rustic roads and so more.

Cochran's Waterfalls offers a unique experience for those looking to take a break and enjoy the beauty of nature. Located on Cochran's Farm Road near Lumpkin, the waterfall flows over rocks and tree roots, creating a mesmerizing sight that all ages can appreciate. Not only is the rushing water therapeutic, but hikers are able to take advantage of the stunning views, with stunning fall colors radiating from surrounding trees during peak season.

Springer Mountain Trail is an incredibly scenic and well-maintained trail. It leads hikers through lush forests filled with wildlife and also offers multiple camping spots along the way. The entire trail is over sixty miles long, running from Spring Mountain to Bly Gap on the North Carolina border. It is part of the famous Appalachian Trail, so backpackers can enjoy a long journey covering two states if they choose to hike the entire distance.

Amicalola Falls Campground is the perfect spot for a peaceful getaway. Located near the beautiful Amicalola Falls, a 729-foot cascading waterfall, the campground provides over 120 full hookup and tent sites with great views. Guests can take advantage of top-notch amenities like pavilions, laundry services, water and electrical stations, picnic tables, playgrounds and much more for a convenient camping experience.

Amicalola Falls State Park is truly a sight to behold. This 729-acre park is home to an 829-foot cascading waterfall, as well as plenty of other beautiful sights and sounds. The park offers numerous hiking trails, ranging from easy walks to more challenging treks all the way up to Springer Mountain. Visitors can enjoy everything from rare wildflowers and a variety of wildlife to scenic mountain valleys and rocky mountaintops. There are also opportunities for fishing, camping and biking.

Amicalola Falls State Park is an incredible place to explore and experience. There is more than 729 acres of rolling mountains, woodland forests, and stunning waterfalls, providing the perfect backdrop for activities like hiking, camping, fishing, or even enjoying a picnic. Visitors can also make their way up to the top of Amicalola Falls via a staircase or a nearby trail located along the edge of the park. There they can take in views of Springer Mountain before descending back down.

The Chattahoochee Forest National Fish Hatchery is filled with marvelous sights and sounds. Here, it's possible to get close up with some of the most abundant fish species native to the area, including Rainbow and Brook Trout, Striped Bass and Brown Trout. Guided tours and educational programs provide fascinating insight into this unique ecosystem. Visitors can also explore a seventeen-acre historic building located on site, that was once used for hatching eggs.

The Etowah River is an important source of water for the surrounding area, providing life-sustaining support for both human and natural populations. As a major tributary to the Coosa River, the river has played an important role in transportation and commerce throughout history. On its banks are numerous ancient Native American sites that show vivid evidence that the area was densely populated before European settlers arrived centuries ago.

This two-million-acre park provides recreational opportunities for thousands of visitors every year, from hiking and kayaking to fishing and archery. Along with its spectacular trees, shrubs and wildlife, Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest is also part of the longest section of the Appalachian Trail – the 3 million acres that stretch from Maine to Mountain City, GA. With 15 designated wilderness areas complimentary camping sites around lakes and streams.

Rich Mountain Wilderness is an incredible outdoors experience. Boasting more than 17,000 acres of lush green forest, this region will astound you with its sheer beauty and grandeur. From hiking trails to camping spots, fishing to swimming in various creeks, visitors are left with a sense of serenity that is hard to replicate anywhere else. The Rich Mountain Wilderness also boasts some magnificent animal life with deer, raccoon and river otter amongst the wildlife commonly seen by visitors.

Big Bald Mountain, offers some of the most stunning views of the Appalachian Mountains. At 3,944 feet high, it is one of the highest peaks in the region and provides a breathtaking panorama over miles of rolling hills and lush forests. Its hiking trails are popular among locals and visitors alike due to their gentle grade and tranquil scenery. There are several campgrounds at Big Bald where visitors can spend a peaceful night under the stars or just take in the majestic views.

Shallow Ford Bridge is an iconic bridge, well-known due to its structure, being built entirely out of wood 115 years ago. The bridge stands 270 feet long and 78 feet high above the Toccoa River. While there have been a few maintenance updates over the years, it remains true to its original design which is supported by four wooden trusses. Some local legends claim that a train car was built to go across the river at this location however there is no proof this actually occurred.

Woody Gap is an outdoor enthusiast's dream come true. The area has a variety of trails and paths that are perfect for hiking and horseback riding, as well as plenty of sites for camping, fishing and bird watching. Whether you're looking for a full-day outing or just a leisurely afternoon stroll, you're sure to find something to enjoy in Woody Gap. Geocachers also have plenty to explore here since the park contains several multi-cache trails.

The Dawson Forest Wildlife Management Area covers over 12,000 acres of rural terrain composed of loblolly and short leaf pines, as well as some hardwoods. It is well known for its deer and turkey hunting that is available to the public year-round. The area also serves as a sanctuary for endangered species like the gopher tortoise, indigo snake and timber rattlesnake. In addition there are several great places to explore such as the Etowah Indian Mounds Historic Site and Cohutta Wilderness.

Lake Petit is a breathtaking sight. It's located among dense forested areas and its pristine waters reflect the beauty of the seasons. In summer months its waters sparkle like diamonds and in winter it glistens with hues of pale blues and greens. This serene lake offers countless activities for all types of visitors including boating, fishing, wake boarding, and scuba diving. Many travelers flock to its shoreline just to enjoy the tranquility that Lake Petit provides.

Dockery Lake Recreation Area, is a great spot for outdoor enthusiasts and families looking to enjoy some quality time together. The recreation area offers over 30 miles of trails that encompass breathtaking mountain views, lakeside cabins with camp sites, horseback riding and much more. Visitors can rent kayaks and paddle boards too, so they can enjoy the lake at their leisure.

Mount Oglethorpe stands as the highest peak in the state. Its summit lies at an elevation of 1,774 feet and provides breathtaking views of the nearby Chattahoochee Forest and surrounding area. Located on a popular hiking area, many hikers flock to this spot for its stunning vistas and unique habitat. In addition to being home to various different types of vegetation, the mountain is also rich in history with artifacts that date back nearly 4,000 years.