HIGH FALLS
Georgia’ s
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One of most visited parks in the state, High Falls is a big draw to Monroe County
BY DIANE GLIDEWELL
A
treasure nestled on Monroe County’ s north side is High Falls State
Park, 1,050 acres of natural tersecond most-visited state park in Georgia. One reason for its popularity is that it is less than two miles off I-75.
Numerous visitors discover it as they travel from New York
The whitewater of the Towaliga River at High Falls State Park.( Photo / Diane Glidewell)
rain, forest, and wildlife around a 650-acre lake and the Towaliga River. Last year, High Falls State Park welcomed more than 700,000 visitors, making it the
to Florida, and the many points in between, and make a point to stop back by High Falls State Park for a few days or a few hours as they travel the interstate. Midway between Atlanta and Macon, it is also a convenient destination for the many city dwellers who want an escape to nature for their family get-away.
Fishing on the lake is a big draw; High Falls Lake is known as a top spot for hybrid and white bass. Park superintendent Doug Chambers says the lake holds a good selection of catfish, large and small mouth bass, several species of brim, and crappie. Chambers said High Falls Lake is one of the larger state park lakes and was recently featured in an online article on the best places to fish in Georgia. There are fishing docks and two boat ramps, and fishermen can bring their own boats. The park has jonboats, canoes, kayaks, and pedal boats for rent.
For land lovers, there are three maintained trails of varying difficulty, totaling almost five miles for hiking.
Each of the trails holds unique challenges and appeals. The falls trail has a lot of big rocks and is a treat for those who enjoy‘ bouldering,’ meeting the challenge of finding footholds and hand holds on their hike. The historic trail leads to the old powerhouse that operated from the late 1800’ s to 1958 and the gristmill that was rebuilt in 1866 after it was burned in the Civil War and operated until 1960. The historic trail has two platforms for taking pictures. The third and longest trail winds through woods for 2.5 miles and is a good path for families hiking together.
There are accommodations for all types of camping with 103 tent, trailer, and recreational vehicle campsites and a pioneer campground. The
HISTORY
High Falls State Park was formed in 1966, when the area was turned over to the Georgia Parks Department from the Georgia Game and Fish Commission, to which it had been donated by the Hiawassee Timber Company. Georgia Power Company closed the powerhouse in 1958.
AMENITIES
• Swimming Pool: open Memorial Day through Labor Day, individuals for $ 5 / day or $ 50 / season pass or $ 125 / season pass for a family of 4
• Mini-Golf( newly refurbished)
• Boat Rentals: boats, canoes and kayaks for $ 10 / hr., $ 20 / 4 hrs., $ 30 / 8 hrs.; pedal boats for $ 4 / half-hr., $ 30 / 8 hrs.
• Hiking Trails: pets must be on a 6 ft. leash
• Picnic Shelters: accommodates 35, with water and electricity, reserve for $ 55 –$ 65 / day
• Group Shelter: accommodates 125, with 3’ x 3’ grill, reserve for $ 280 / day
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