Walker County - 19 Attractions You Must Visit

The Chief John Ross House, an iconic 1839 two-story Federal style home, stands as a tribute to the Cherokee nation's beloved principal chief. The house was built by noted architect and contractor Mr. Thomas Ennis for Chief John Ross. Inside the home is a grand staircase and mantelpieces made from local marble still remain. After being passed down through several generations of the Ross family, it was eventually acquired and restored by the Historic Chattahoochee Commission in 1982.

Crawfish Spring is a vibrant spring that can be seen seasonally. It's the perfect place for an outing away from the hustle and bustle of daily life. This area is known for its lush greenery and abundant wildlife. Its crystal clear waters provide plenty of activities such as fishing and boating. The spring also showcases its beauty with breathtaking sunsets over the horizon. In addition to recreational activities, this area is renowned as a great spot for camping, picnicking, and bird-watching.

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.

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.

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.

John's Mountain Wildlife Management Area, is a protected area that serves as an important habitat for local wildlife. The area features bluffs, majestic hills, and a mixed hardwood forest with coves and ravines, making it perfect for birds, deer and other small game. John's Mountain also provides outdoor recreation opportunities such as fishing, hunting, hiking and boating on the nearby Lake Arkaquah.

Keown Falls Picnic Area and Trailhead is a beautiful and serene outdoor escape. Accessed from Keown Falls Road, the picnic site offers clean and spacious grounds for activities like eating a meal outside, frisbee throwing or kite flying. Nature lovers can also enjoy hidden trails accessible to the area that offer sights of waterfalls, rural fields and lakes. Whether travelers are looking to relax on a picnic blanket or explore a wooded trail, they’ll find something special here.

Lookout Mountain, is indeed a sight to behold. Its lush and rolling hills, mighty ridges and dense forests are awe-inspiring and has become a popular outdoor retreat for many. The steep cliffs at the top of Lookout Mountain offer some of the best views in north Georgia. With temperatures staying mild even during winter months, it makes for a great place to enjoy camping, hiking or simply to take in the beauty of nature.

Lookout Mountain Incline Railway is a remarkable engineering feat. It takes riders from the mountain's bottom to its summit in just three and a half minutes, reaching an average grade of up to 72.7% for part of its run and making it one of the steepest passenger railway climbs in the world! Operated continuously since 1895, it still uses cars pulled by an original steam locomotive built in 1895. This classic locomotive is fueled with wood and powered by an innovative reversible steam engine.

Lula Falls, a breathtaking sight, offers something for everyone. If you're looking for an adventurous hike or an idyllic spot to take a break from the world and enjoy nature, Lula Falls won't disappoint. Surrounded by lush plantation forests, the limestone-cascading falls provide an escape with cascading waterfalls that are surrounded by verdant foliage and captivating wildlife. With its natural setting and vibrant springs, visitors can also enjoy hiking trails, bird watching, and all so more.

Lula Lake Land Trust is a breath of fresh air for nature-lovers. With over six miles of public trails and five spectacular waterfalls, this natural area offers an idyllic escape from the stresses of daily life. As a part of their mission to protect and restore the area’s natural resources, Lula Lake has made sure these areas remain inaccessible to motorized vehicles. Boasting a diverse array of flora and fauna, Lula Lake Land Trust is the perfect place to go.

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.

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.

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.

Raccoon Mountain Caverns and Campground, is a popular destination with something to offer everyone. The caverns welcome visitors from around the world to one of America's oldest living caves, with intricate limestone formations and passages spanning over 9 miles. For campers, the nearby campground provides overnight accommodations, as well as RV hookups for larger parties. Other attractions at the location include gemstone mining, mini golf, and a petting zoo.

Snodgrass Hill, is a beautiful and unique destination. From its sweeping vistas to its picturesque mountain passes, this area provides visitors with breathtaking views of nature. Visitors can take in the fresh smells of nearby streams and pines while hiking or simply exploring the landscape. Rich in Civil War history and boasting many outdoor recreational activities, Snodgrass Hill is sure to leave a lasting impression with all who visit - there's something for everyone!

The Western & Atlantic Railroad Tunnel is a railroad tunnel built in 1850, the tunnel is 0.75 miles long and has become a National Historic Landmark. An amazing feat of engineering during that era, the tunnel runs beneath the crest of a ridge that raised 540 feet above its entrance in Chattanooga. It was really quite a dangerous venture to bore through solid rock but crews were able to get it done quickly and safely allowing railroad traffic to continue under the mountain.

The Wilder Brigade Monument is a historic marker that remembers those volunteers who fought for the Confederate cause during the American Civil War. The monument was erected to honor the brave men from Georgia’s 12th Infantry Regiment, who courageously served under Major General John T. Wilder between 1862 and 1864. The monument honors those fallen soldiers with a plaque containing their names, rank, and personal information—a poignant reminder of their selfless sacrifice.

Wilder Tower is a unique symbol located in the town of Rock Spring. Standing at 58 feet high, this bell tower and gazebo combo is an iconic landmark for all those who visit the area. It was built from 1923-1925 by W.A. Davis, using granite quarried from nearby Stones Garden Cave. The tower’s four main walls have inscriptions inside them that read “Love", "Peace", "Truth" and “Freedom” in 4 different languages which reflect the county’s multicultural nature.