Hiking Trails in Amicalola Falls State Park

The park has just recently finished constructing a trail that closely follows the waterfall and offers an up close and personal view of the falls. The newly renovated trail has been widened and re-marked for safety. The portion of the trail that is close the falls and parking lot is paved or some very steep stairs. Because the way the steps are made you may not want to take dogs to the top, especially small dogs or puppies.

There are actually two trails that make up the Amicalola Falls Trail. These trails are the Base of Falls trail and The Waterfall trail. Even though these trails make up one trail they are two very different trails. Starting from the parking lot you will see the Base of Falls trail. Follow the trail by the paved road until you get to the nicely sized pond area at the base of the falls. Every part of the trail leading up the falls is step, including the paved section. Once you get to the base of the falls you will be greeted by a large number of some very steep stairs. Because this portion of the trail can be demanding even for the more seasoned hiker it is actually easier to get to the top of the falls by way of the East Ridge Trail. It is a little longer but not as grueling and then work your way down the Top of Falls trail.

Once you make it to the top of the falls you will presented with some spectacular views. There is a bridge reaching across the top of the falls that will give you a breath taking view on clear days. From the bridge you can see the Southern Appalachian piedmont in Georgia. On clear days you can over 30 miles into the distance which is where the Alltoona Mountains lie. To your right you will see the plethora of steps that make there way down from the upper platform. From the steps you will have number of very good views of the waterfall. The waterfall is 729 feet that flows and cascades over rocks make several smaller water falls instead of one monster fall. About half way down the stairs you will come to another bridge that crosses the falls about 250 from the top. This is a great picture taking spot and also offers some more great views of the surrounding area. Even further down the steps is the lower platform which will show you the entire water fall and bridge you were just standing on. Once your down admiring the beauty of the falls you can follow the steep and paved trail down to the pond at the base of the falls.

Once you make it to the reflecting pond the trail will circle the pond and will continue heading towards the visitors center. This path is now known as the Base of Falls trail. From this point on the trail is very flat and easy. It is now nothing more than a paved foot path through the parking lot area. Pay no attention to the signs that may say this is a difficult hike, they are referring to the upper section of the trail. The flat and level trail will take you to a number of the parks features like the picnic area, group shelters, interpretive session areas, and a few play grounds. For a while the Base of Falls trail runs beside the Amicalola River and gives you some nice tranquil views of the river its self. Just keep following this trail and you will cross a small wooden bridge and then end up at the visitors center.

If you are camping in the primitive camp ground area or RV area there is a way to take a separate trail back to the camping area. Get a map in the visitors center when you check in and ask the ranger to show you the trail on the map.

PERSONAL TIPS

Be careful with digital cameras here. There is usually a mist blowing of the falls and can quickly saturate electronic items if left unexposed.
The steps up the falls are hard on any dogs feet and almost impossible for smaller dogs. It is a good idea to have you dog wear booties on its feet so that you wont hurt the dogs feet, nail, or webbing.

Make sure you pack water for your, your dog, your kids, and then pack some more. The hike up or down the stairs is very intense and can be very hot in the summer months.