UNICOI STATE PARK
Nestled in the north Georgia mountains just two miles from the Alpine village of Helen, Unicoi is one of Georgia?s most beloved state parks. Throughout the year, the park offers outstanding programs which focus on natural, cultural, historical and recreational resources. Groups can make advanced reservations for specialized programs. Outdoor enthusiasts will enjoy hiking and biking on scenic mountain trails, especially those leading to Helen and Anna Ruby Falls. Craft lovers should not miss the lodge gift shop specializing in hand-made quilts and local pottery. Numerous picnic tables are located throughout the park.
In the midst of the Chattahoochee National Forest, located just two miles from the Alpine Village of Helen, the Lodge at Unicoi State Park is a beautiful setting for all of your group needs. For group conferences, high-speed wireless internet services will allow you to bring your office systems with you. When the workday comes to an end, our guests can enjoy the park's 12 miles of nature and hiking trails, lake and trout stream fishing, four lighted tennis courts, softball and volleyball area, picnic facilities, world class mountain bike trail and year-round schedule of activities.
1. Unicoi State Park offers a beach area at Unicoi Lake for swimming during the summer months.
2. Lifeguards are not always present, so swim with caution and supervise children closely.
3. Swimming is free to park visitors after paying the parking fee of $5 per vehicle.
4. The lake's water quality is regularly tested by Georgia Department of Natural Resources ensuring safe conditions for swimmers.
5. There are no designated lanes or areas specifically set aside for lap swimming in this natural setting.
6. The sandy beach has picnic tables nearby making it ideal spot to relax post-swim.
7. Swimming hours typically align with daylight hours but check local postings as they can vary seasonally.
8. Pets aren't allowed on beaches; ensure you follow these rules if visiting with your furry friends.
9. Besides swimming, other activities like paddle boarding and fishing also take place on Unicoi Lake.
10. Restrooms facilities including changing rooms available near the beach area providing convenience to swimmers.
Visitors can enjoy a variety of boating options. The park offers paddle boat, kayak and canoe rentals for use on the 53-acre Unicoi Lake during warmer months. Fishing boats are also available to rent year-round. However, personal watercrafts like private motorized boats or jet skis are not allowed in order to maintain peace and tranquility within the area.
In the heart of North Georgia, you can fish in a 53-acre lake and two creeks. Species include rainbow trout, catfish and bass. Fly fishing is popular at Smith Creek downstream from Helen's Anna Ruby Falls. The park also offers year-round angling for bream or sunfish species such as bluegill and redear sunfish.
Unicoi State Park is located near Blairsville, Clarkesville and Cleveland
Unicoi State Park offers numerous picnic spots with tables and grills, surrounded by beautiful forest views. Some areas are reservable.
The trails at Unicoi State Park are enjoyable year-round. In the spring and summer you will find colorful blooms and buds, in the autumn the mountains are adorned with an array of reds, yellows, and oranges as leaves begin to change. And the winter months allow hikers and bikers to enjoy scenic views of the area not available any other time of the year. All trailheads, except the Unicoi Mountain Bike Trail, are located at the far end of the level 3 lodge parking area. Trail maps are available at the front desk.
BOTTOMS LOOP TRAIL
2 mile loop. Compacted Soil Surface. 1.5 hours. Rated moderate.
A moderate hike through rhododendrons, mountain laurels, and hemlocks that passes by remains of an old homestead. In the spring, you will find a variety of wildflowers and blooms. The trail crosses several brooks as it winds through a hardwood forest, and then meets the rippling waters of Smith Creek as it makes its way back to the lodge.
FROG POND NATURE TRAIL
1/3 mile loop. Compacted Soil Surface. 25 minutes. Rated easy.
A short walk around Frog Pond marked by interpretive signs and tree identification signs. Learn more about the wildlife that make Unicoi its home. Interested in a brief, informative stroll? This one is for you.
UNICOI/HELEN TRAIL
3 miles, one-way. Compacted Soil Surface. 2 hours, one-way / 4 hours, round-trip. Rated moderate to strenuous.
Hike from Unicoi State Park to Helen on a moderate to strenuous winding trail that starts out as the Bottom Loop Trail, then continues through stands of rhododendrons and mountain laurels to cross Lower Smith Creek. The trail crosses several small streams and then intersects the Unicoi Mountain Biking Trail before reaching Unicoi Hill City Park in Helen.
LAKE TRAIL
2.5 mile loop. Compacted Soil Surface. 2 hours. Rated easy.
This trail is mostly flat as it winds around the edge of the 53-acre Uncoi Lake. A pleasant loop trail with views of Uncoi Lake and surrounding mountains. A great fall hike for viewing leaves. Pick up a tree identification guide and learn how to identify trees common to Unicoi and the north Georgia mountains.
MOUNTAIN BIKE TRAIL
7.5 mile loop. Compacted Soil Surface. 2.5 hours. Rated moderate to strenuous.
This exclusive mountain biking trail takes riders over mountainous terrain and over ridges with scenic overlooks, and then back to Unicoi State Park. This trail, which is intended for experienced riders, has been used for several national and regional mountain biking racing events. Trailhead located at the Angler/Mt. Biking parking area.
SMITH CREEK TRAIL
4.8 miles, one-way. Compacted Soil Surface. 3 hours, one-way / 6 hours, round-trip. Rated strenuous.
This is a U.S. Forest Service trail that goes from the Unicoi State Park campground to Anna Ruby Falls Recreation Area. The trail is considered strenuous, and guests are encouraged to bring water, wear appropriate footwear, and plan for shuttling if hiking only one direction. Shuttle service is not provided by the park. Beginning at Unicoi, follow this trail through the Chattahoochee National Forest. This trail leads to the headwaters of Smith Creek and passes stands of rhododendron and mountain laurel.
Biking enthusiasts can explore the park's 7.5-mile trail, though it is challenging with steep climbs and descents.
The Smith Creek Trail offers a moderate difficulty level for bikers who prefer less strenuous rides.
Mountain biking requires caution due to rocky terrain, sharp turns and occasional wildlife encounters on trails.
Riders should wear helmets at all times as safety measures are paramount in these rugged terrains.
Ensure your bike has good brakes; some downhill sections of the trails may be quite fast-paced or slippery when wet.
Remember that hikers also use these paths so always maintain respectful speeds while sharing space with them.
For those without bikes, rentals aren't available within this area - plan accordingly by bringing your own gear.
Birdwatchers can enjoy spotting various species like warblers, thrushes and vireos in the park's diverse habitats. The area is part of the Southern Appalachian Birding Trail. Visitors might also see raptors during migration season or waterfowl on Smith Lake.
Located 2 miles northeast of Helen via Ga. Hwy. 356.