Junior Ranger Gopher Badge
A new GO Georgia badge has been added to the successful Junior Ranger Program. Kids ages 7 - 14 choose from a list of activities to earn their Gopher badge. The younger ones, ages 7 - 10 must complete 5 activities while those in the older group, ages 11 - 14 must work toward completing 8 activities.
GO-for Junior Ranger Gopher Badge >>
Smithgall Woods
Head over to Smithgall Woods, featuring north Georgia's premier trout stream, Dukes Creek. The creek runs through this spectacular mountain property and is a favorite for catch-and-release fishing. There are 22 miles of spectacular scenic roads and trails allowing hikers and bicyclists to explore wildflowers, hardwoods, streams and all kinds of wildlife. This is a park not to be missed!
Activities at Smithgall Woods
Hiking
Nature Viewing
Biking
Fishing
Camping
Picnicking
Nature Viewing
Biking
Fishing
Camping
Picnicking
Hiking
VISITOR CENTER LOOP TRAIL
This .3-mile trail begins at our Visitor Center, crosses a small tributary of Dukes Creek, and winds around a large pasture along Dukes Creek.
LAUREL RIDGE TRAIL
Located adjacent to our Visitor Center, this interpretive trail is a moderate 1.6-mile loop that climbs to Laurel Ridge and provides a seasonal view of Mt. Yonah.
The trails below must be hiked from the Visitor Center. Remember to include the distance from the Visitor Center in your hiking plans:
Click here for more information about the trails at Smithgall Woods.
There are 22 miles of spectacular scenic roads and trails for you to explore. Some trails are closed during scheduled hunts. Call for more information.
VISITOR CENTER LOOP TRAIL
This .3-mile trail begins at our Visitor Center, crosses a small tributary of Dukes Creek, and winds around a large pasture along Dukes Creek.
LAUREL RIDGE TRAIL
Located adjacent to our Visitor Center, this interpretive trail is a moderate 1.6-mile loop that climbs to Laurel Ridge and provides a seasonal view of Mt. Yonah.
The trails below must be hiked from the Visitor Center. Remember to include the distance from the Visitor Center in your hiking plans:
- ASH CREEK TRAIL
1.5 mile one way; 0.6 miles from Visitor Center at the north end, 1.3 miles from south end.
This rugged trail requires fording/wading Dukes Creek near the north end.- CATHY ELLIS TRAIL
0.5 mile one way; 2.8 miles from Visitor Center.
Also called the Chunanee Falls Trail, this memorial trail is in honor of Cathy Ellis, who loved the north Georgia mountains.- MARTIN'S MINE TRAIL
0.9 mile loop; 2.1 miles from Visitor Center.
A wooden bridge across Dukes Creek begins this picturesque and historical trail. The 0.9-mile loop interprets the history of gold mining at this site.- WETLAND LOOP TRAIL
0.55 mile loop; 1.2 miles from Visitor Center.
This easy half-mile loop trail passes a beaver pond and wetland area. A boardwalk and large deck provide a great spot for "birding" on the pond. - CATHY ELLIS TRAIL
Click here for more information about the trails at Smithgall Woods.
Nature Viewing
Smithgall Woods is a wonderful and uniquely beautiful place for nature photography. There are 5 miles of pristine nature trails. Wildlife observation stands and food plots also aide the viewer.
Biking
23 miles of roads and trails are available to cyclists of all levels. (most closed during scheduled hunts)
Fishing
Dukes Creek, runs through this conservation area, and is a know for catch-and-release fishing. Trout fishing on Wednesday, Saturday and Sunday only (daily for cottage guests). Reservations required. All visitors must register at the Visitor Center.
Camping
- The Pioneer outdoor campground is available for youth groups only.
Picnicking
- 3 affordable picnic shelters are available.
Contact Smithgall Woods
Main Contact
Park (706) 878-3087
Hours of Operation
Park Hours
8 AM-6 PM / Mon., Tues., Thurs., Fri.
7 AM-6 PM / Wed., Sat., Sun.
Trout fishing on Wed., Sat. and Sun. only (daily for cottage guests). Reservations required. Please register at the Visitor Center.
7 AM-6 PM / Wed., Sat., Sun.
Trout fishing on Wed., Sat. and Sun. only (daily for cottage guests). Reservations required. Please register at the Visitor Center.
Events at Smithgall Woods
Mountain Herb DaySmithgall Woods – Helen, GA
Saturday, Sep 11, 2010 / 9 AM to 1 PM
Immerse yourself in the rich tradition of healing with medicines made from local plants. A medicinal plant hike and medicine making demonstration will also be included with a focus on stocking the winter medicine cabinet. Interpretive Ranger and Herbalist Johnna Tuttle is the instructor. Register by September 4. $25 plus $5 parking. 706-878-3087.
Facilities at Smithgall Woods
For rates visit www.GeorgiaStateParks.org/SmithgallWoods
- 5,664 Acres
- 3 Picnic Shelters
- Pioneer Campground (youth groups only)
- Cottages and Group Cottages
- Visitor Center
- 5 Miles of Nature Trails
- Guided Tours
- Nature Photography
- Wildlife Viewing Stands and Food Plots
Programs at Smithgall Woods
Find Smithgall Woods
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