20 Attractions to Explore Near Rich Mountain Wilderness

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.

Grandview Lake is a stunning, natural lake which adds an extra layer of beauty to the area's rugged, mountainous terrain. Grandview Lake is the largest reservoir in Pickens County and many visitors take advantage of camping and hiking opportunities at the lake. Boating, kayaking, fishing and swimming are also popular at this location and anglers frequently target largemouth bass among other types of fish.

Carters Lake, is truly a unique destination. Nestled within the Appalachian foothills, it offers breathtaking views of the nearby Blue Ridge Mountains. The lake itself covers over 3,200 acres of glassy clear water, perfect for fishing and recreational boating. It's also popular with hikers and campers due to its abundance of trails and public camping sites. Birdwatchers can spend leisurely days scoping out ospreys, bald eagles and wood ducks among other species of birds.

Lake Tamarack, is a beautiful piece of nature that attracts people from all over the state. The lake has been a major outdoor recreation destination for nearly 100 years. It offers boating, swimming, fishing, and camping to its visitors. A popular attraction is the Lake Tamarack Lodge which offers several amenities including picnic tables and fire pits. There are also plenty of opportunities for bird watching with over 130 species of birds spotted near the lake.

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.

Carters Lake, is a popular destination for viewers and adventurers alike. The lake has a 65-mile shoreline and offers activities such as camping, swimming, boating, fishing, hiking and picnicking. Hikers can experience the nearby Cohutta Wilderness area or explore the trails at the dam's observation deck. Fishing enthusiasts can cast their rod into waters filled with largemouth bass and striped bass - but make sure to obtain a valid fishing license first!

Carters Dam, is a popular destination for residents and visitors alike. This dam, completed in 1977, helps to control flooding in the area by providing flood storage for the Coosawattee River. Along with its important role in managing the surrounding environment, it also provides recreational opportunities for locals such as kayaking and fishing. For those looking for some relaxation, there are also vast picnic grounds available on site.

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.

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.

Cohutta Overlook located atop of the gorgeous Cohutta Mountain range, visitors to the overlook can take in panoramic views of the surrounding area. From the quartzite cliffs that tower over pine and hardwood forests to the distant rolling hills of North Georgia, visitors will be captivated by a 360-degree view of beauty at its finest. Bird watchers also flock to the area as it's an ideal spot for spotting hawks and vultures from both near and far away locations.

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.

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.

Aska Trails is a network of hiking trails full of unexpected beauty. With two different trail networks to choose from, hikers can explore seven miles of picturesque oak and pine forests, waterfalls cascading down rugged rock formations, deep gorges with trout streams running through them, and breathtaking views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Perfect for those looking for a relaxing stroll or thrilling adventure - Aska Trails offers something for everyone.

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.

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.

The Appalachian Trail Southern Terminus offers the lucky few individuals who make it to the southern endpoint of this iconic 2,190 mile trail a wealth of memories. Standing at this point, travelers can enjoy stunning views of the surrounding forest and lush greenery that blankets the rugged Georgia terrain. With its rolling hills and abundant wildlife, this remote part of the world is an unforgettable experience for any outdoor enthusiast.