Get the Perfect View of Georgia's Fall Foliage: Top 5 Overlooks at Georgia State Parks

Atlanta, GA

Every fall in Georgia, Mother Nature displays her most beautiful work, beckoning travelers from near and far to take in the scenery of the Peach State. From the crisp mountain air, the comforting autumn breezes and the red, orange, yellow and faded green hues, Georgia State Parks is the premier destination to take all of fall in. Thanks to the overlooks that can be found at the below state parks, guests can indulge in the beauty offered by standing miles high and basking in its glory.

With the “Leaf Watch 2018” travel planner, visitors can find additional Georgia State Parks perfect for viewing fall foliage at GaStateParks.org/LeafWatch. The site also includes hiking tips, autumn events and updates from park rangers. Visitors are encouraged to tag their most Instagram-worthy photos with #GaLeafWatch and #GaStateParks for a chance to be featured on the Leaf Watch website.

Amicalola Falls State Park

Panoramic views of Georgia’s magnificent fall foliage and forestry await guests who venture to Amicalola Falls State Park. Known as the highest waterfall east of the Mississippi at an astounding 729 feet, Amicalola Falls State Park is unique in its own right. An easy walk from the parking lot to the Top of the Falls Overlook, see where small stream tumbles over the edge, turning into one of Georgia’s most famous waterfalls. Check this destination off the bucket list this fall and stand in awe as the cascading waterfall roars below. GaStateParks.org/AmicalolaFalls

Park Address:
280 Amicalola Falls State Park Road
Dawsonville, GA 30534
Phone: 706-265-4703

Tallulah Gorge State Park

The rushing waters aren’t all guests are privy to at this Georgia State Park staple. A true gem of the eastern U.S., Tallulah Gorge State Park is two miles long and nearly 1,000 feet deep. A fairly easy hike brings you to Hurricane Falls Overlook, then continue down a challenging staircase to a suspension bridge with jaw-dropping views. Stand on the swinging bridge to soak up the scenery, hear the wind howl and revel in the beauty. GaStateParks.org/TallulahGorge

Park Address:
338 Jane Hurt Yarn Drive
Tallulah Falls, GA 30573
Phone: 706-754-7981

Black Rock Mountain State Park

“Ohh” and “ahhh” at the views located at Georgia’s highest state park, Black Rock Mountain State Park. Nestled in the Blue Ridge mountains, this eye-opening park offers visitors views of Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina and Tennessee all in one visit at the summit. Both the Cowee Overlook and Black Rock Mountain’s scenic overlook at the visitor center parking lot showcase up-to 80-mile vistas across the Blue Ridge Mountains. The park’s 10 cottages are clustered on the edge of the mountain, offering views of the Georgia mountains and town of Clayton below.  GaStateParks.org/BlackRockMountain

Park Address:
3085 Black Rock Mountain Parkway
Mountain City, GA 30562
Phone: 706-746-2141

Fort Mountain State Park

Fort Mountain State Park’s majestic overlooks make even the most seasoned leaf-peeper swoon. Known for its stone fire tower built by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s, this mountain getaway displays fall in Georgia on another level. Don’t miss the insta-worthy photo opportunities offered at this gorgeous park from atop the highest point of the mountain. Come prepared to snap the foliage from up high on the West Overlook and share with friends, family and followers. GaStateParks.org/FortMountain

Park Address:
181 Fort Mountain Park Road
Chatsworth, GA 30705
Phone: 706-422-1932

Cloudland Canyon State Park

Popular for the countless outdoor recreation opportunities available to visitors year-round, Cloudland Canyon remains a must-stop to those traveling through the Peach State, especially during fall. As guests stare out over the overlook, they will see fall color sprinkled about in the distance. Straddling the edge of Sitton Gulch, Cloudland Canyon’s vantage point from the western edge of Lookout Mountain offers spectacular views into the canyon and its surrounding woodlands. Hike the one-mile roundtrip Overlook Trail along the canyon’s rim to the main overlook for the best view in the park. As the season progresses, the mountainous view transforms into a pleasant sea of fall foliage. GaStateParks.org/CloudlandCanyon

Park Address:
122 Cloudland Canyon Park Road
Rising Fawn, GA 30738
Phone: 706-657-4050

Extend the visit and partake in the multitude of outdoor activities and events offered to guests at the above parks. Choose from cottages, cabins, yurts and more to call home base during the next visit to Georgia State Parks & Historic Sites. For booking and additional accommodations, visit Georgia State Parks Reservations.