Smithgall Woods State Park
Discover serene trails, diverse wildlife, and peaceful creeks at Smithgall Woods State Park, a nature lover's paradise.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Smithgall Woods State Park
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover serene trails, diverse wildlife, and peaceful creeks at Smithgall Woods State Park, a nature lover's paradise.
"A great walk in the woods with actual trails and enjoyable scenery."
👟 Wear sturdy hiking shoes
Trails can be natural and muddy; waterproof boots are recommended for creek crossings.
🐻 Be bear aware
Encounters are possible; keep a safe distance and do not feed wildlife.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Laurel Ridge Trail
Adjacent to Visitor Center
A 1.6-mile loop offering seasonal views of Mt. Yonah. Kid-friendly and great for a quick nature escape.
Chunanee Falls
Cathy Ellis Memorial Trail
A rewarding half-mile hike to a beautiful spot to cool off, accessible via the Cathy Ellis Memorial Trail.
Dukes Creek
Throughout the park
This scenic creek runs through the park, offering opportunities for peaceful walks and catch-and-release trout fishing.
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Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Trails
Plan Your Visit
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Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear sturdy hiking shoes
Trails can be natural and muddy; waterproof boots are recommended for creek crossings.
🐻 Be bear aware
Encounters are possible; keep a safe distance and do not feed wildlife.
💧 Bring water & snacks
Vending machines are available, but it's wise to pack your own.
🗺️ Grab a trail map
Trail signage can be improved; a map from the visitor center is helpful.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear sturdy hiking shoes
Trails can be natural and muddy; waterproof boots are recommended for creek crossings.
🐻 Be bear aware
Encounters are possible; keep a safe distance and do not feed wildlife.
💧 Bring water & snacks
Vending machines are available, but it's wise to pack your own.
🗺️ Grab a trail map
Trail signage can be improved; a map from the visitor center is helpful.
🎣 Catch & release fishing
Enjoy trout fishing in Dukes Creek, but remember it's catch and release only.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Smithgall Woods State Park for its beautiful natural scenery, well-maintained trails, and peaceful atmosphere. Many enjoy the opportunities for hiking, fishing, and wildlife observation. Some note that trail signage could be improved, and certain waterfalls require longer hikes than anticipated.
"As always, the visitor center has an incredible taxidermy exhibit. I’ve hunted here, but I don’t usually hike at this park. I visited recently with my friend and her 2 year old and we hiked the purple blaze laurel loop trail. It’s about 1.5 mi, and the toddler LOVED it. She ran/ walked the entire trail til the very end.
We had a great time, and I’d like to explore more hiking trails here."
Lauren Crawford
"Great walk in the woods here , there are lots of paved and gravel roads . The trails are actual trails and very enjoyable , I did the ash creek, Martin mines and Cathy Ellis trail to chicane falls.
Ash creek has two water crossings and one is a big one , I scampered across a bunch of downed logs and prayed for no snakes . Once across there was a steep incline and then levels out. On the ash creek trail I encountered my first bear ever , he was spooked and ran off and I had the joy of seeing him or her as they ran away . Once back on the road I walked away from the covered bridge until I came to the Martin Mine loop . The loop is about a mile and is very informative , especially if you pick up the pink flyer at the visitor center that tells you about the points of interest . This trail is about 2.1 miles from the visitor center .
Once back on the road continue walking in the same direction away from the visitor center and in about a half mile or so you come to the Cathy Ellis Memorial trail. This short half mile in and half mile out is very satisfying and the Chunanee falls at the end are a great spot to cool off .
Then you make the journey back to the visitors center . I loved seeing the bee hives they keep by the way and other than at the visitors center and around , I encountered no people.
There is a parking fee of $5 to park there and there are bathrooms , a cute store for souvenirs and a vending machine for water or sodas ."
True Carolina
"Smithgall Woods / Duke’s Creek Conservation Area is part of the Georgia State Park System, and the Georgia Department of Natural Resources. The park offered controlled hunting, as well as catch & release Trout Fishing. There are several trails in the system. The Laurel Ridge Trail has an Awesome view of Yonah mountain in the distance. There are areas of wildflowers, but seems to be hit & miss. There’s a large field with nearby picnic tables close to the parking lot. There is handicap parking, but limited access to the trails. There is a gift shop & a small interpretive room with interesting objects on display. Smithgall is a short distance from Vogel & Unicoi State Parks. as well as Ana Ruby & De Soto Fall Recreation Areas. The towns of Helen & Cleveland are a short drive away. There are clean restrooms and a beverage vending machine available."
D-Ray
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Smithgall Woods State Park is located near Helen, Georgia. It's a short drive from Atlanta and close to other North Georgia attractions like Vogel and Unicoi State Parks.
Yes, Smithgall Woods State Park is dog-friendly, making it a great spot for those who love to hike with their furry companions.
While specific directions depend on your starting point, the park is generally accessible via scenic mountain roads. Use GPS navigation for the most accurate routes.
Public transportation options are limited in this mountainous region. Driving your own vehicle or a rental car is the most practical way to reach the park.
Smithgall Woods State Park is situated just outside of Helen, Georgia, making it a convenient destination for visitors exploring the Alpine Helen area.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, there is a $5 parking fee per vehicle to enter Smithgall Woods State Park.
The park is generally open year-round, but specific hours for the visitor center and facilities may vary. It's best to check the official Georgia State Parks website for the most up-to-date information.
Tickets are not typically required in advance for general park entry. The parking fee is usually paid upon arrival.
For catch-and-release trout fishing, you will need a valid Georgia fishing license. No special permits are usually required for hiking or general park use.
The parking fee grants you access to the park's trails, visitor center exhibits, and picnic areas.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Popular trails include the Laurel Ridge Trail (1.6 miles, seasonal mountain views), Cathy Ellis Memorial Trail to Chunanee Falls (1 mile roundtrip), and the Ash Creek Trail which features water crossings and potential wildlife sightings. +1
Yes, Chunanee Falls is accessible via the Cathy Ellis Memorial Trail. Other trails may lead to smaller cascades or creek areas.
The park is home to diverse wildlife, including deer and bears. You might also spot various bird species and insects.
Absolutely! The Laurel Ridge Trail is a 1.5-mile loop that toddlers have enjoyed walking the entire way. It's a great option for families.
Yes, there are picnic tables available, including a large field with picnic tables close to the parking lot.
🎫 🎣 Fishing & Wildlife
Yes, Smithgall Woods offers catch-and-release trout fishing in Dukes Creek. A valid Georgia fishing license is required.
Dukes Creek is known for its trout population, making it a popular spot for anglers interested in fly fishing or spin casting.
Visitors have reported seeing bears and deer. The park's diverse ecosystems support a variety of birds and other small mammals.
While not always advertised, check with the visitor center for any scheduled interpretive programs or guided walks that might be available.
While the park is generally safe, it's always recommended to hike with a buddy, especially on less-trafficked trails. Inform someone of your hiking plans.
📸 📸 Photography
Chunanee Falls offers beautiful waterfall shots. The Laurel Ridge Trail provides scenic mountain vistas, and the creek itself offers many picturesque moments.
With luck, you might capture images of deer or birds. Early morning or late afternoon often provide the best light for wildlife photography.
Golden hour (shortly after sunrise and before sunset) offers soft, warm light that enhances the natural beauty of the park.
Yes, the visitor center's taxidermy exhibit is a popular spot for photos and offers a glimpse into the park's diverse wildlife.
The overlook on the Laurel Ridge Trail provides a good vantage point for landscape photography, especially during autumn.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Young Children
When planning your visit, consider bringing plenty of snacks and water, as while vending machines are available, it's always best to be prepared.
🎣 Anglers and Nature Enthusiasts
Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the park's diverse ecosystems and the opportunity to observe wildlife. Keep an eye out for deer and various bird species. The trails provide excellent opportunities for birdwatching and simply immersing yourself in the tranquility of the North Georgia mountains.
🚶♀️ Solo Hikers and Peace Seekers
While the park is generally safe, solo hikers should always take precautions, such as informing someone of their hiking plans and staying aware of their surroundings.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Trails of Smithgall Woods
For those looking for a more rewarding destination, the Cathy Ellis Memorial Trail leads to the picturesque Chunanee Falls. This half-mile out-and-back trail offers a satisfying payoff with a beautiful waterfall. More adventurous hikers can explore trails like Ash Creek Trail, which involves creek crossings and a steep incline, or the Martin Mine loop, offering informative points of interest. Be prepared for varied terrain, including paved and gravel roads, as well as natural, sometimes muddy, actual trails.
Wildlife Encounters and Conservation
The park also supports a healthy aquatic ecosystem, with Dukes Creek being a popular spot for catch-and-release trout fishing.
Visitor Center and Amenities
Beyond the visitor center, the park offers practical amenities to enhance your visit. There are restrooms available, and a gift shop for souvenirs. For refreshments, a vending machine dispenses water and sodas.
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