Cloudland Canyon State Park
Explore Georgia's dramatic canyons, cascading waterfalls, and lush trails. A must-visit for nature lovers and hikers!
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
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Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temps
Cloudland Canyon State Park
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temps
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore Georgia's dramatic canyons, cascading waterfalls, and lush trails. A must-visit for nature lovers and hikers!
"One of the BEST state parks in Georgia with incredible waterfalls and thousand-foot canyons!"
👟 Wear Hiking Boots
Essential for navigating muddy trails and the 600+ stairs. Water shoes are great for exploring near falls.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Bring plenty of water, especially for the strenuous hike down and back up.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Cherokee Falls
Canyon Floor
A breathtaking cascade plunging into the canyon, a true reward after the descent.
+1
Hemlock Falls
Canyon Floor
Another stunning waterfall, often described as a local favorite and worth the hike.
+1
Canyon Overlooks
West Rim Trail
Panoramic views of the thousand-foot-deep canyon, offering spectacular vistas.
+1
Frozen Waterfalls
Canyon Floor
In winter, witness the magical transformation of waterfalls into icy sculptures.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Conquer the Canyon Stairs
Trail Navigation Tips
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Hiking Boots
Essential for navigating muddy trails and the 600+ stairs. Water shoes are great for exploring near falls.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Bring plenty of water, especially for the strenuous hike down and back up.
🚗 Parking Fee
A small fee ($5) is required per vehicle for entry.
🐶 Dog-Friendly Trails
Leashed dogs are welcome on many trails, making it a great spot for furry friends!
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Hiking Boots
Essential for navigating muddy trails and the 600+ stairs. Water shoes are great for exploring near falls.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Bring plenty of water, especially for the strenuous hike down and back up.
🚗 Parking Fee
A small fee ($5) is required per vehicle for entry.
🐶 Dog-Friendly Trails
Leashed dogs are welcome on many trails, making it a great spot for furry friends!
🗺️ Download Offline Maps
Trail markings can be inconsistent; an offline map is a lifesaver.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Cloudland Canyon State Park for its breathtaking natural beauty, particularly its deep canyons and stunning waterfalls. The challenging stair hike is a highlight for many, offering a rewarding sense of accomplishment. However, some note that trail markings could be improved, and the stairs can be demanding for those with mobility issues.
"It is a beautiful park. $5 entry for the vehicle. My husband and youngest took the West Rim Loop Trail to the Hemlock and Cherokee Falls. It is a 5 miles hike with 600 stairs. My wheelchair needs daughter and I enjoyed the overlook and we could hear the falls. The park people were working on the part of the Overlook Trail so we couldn't go very far.
There were restrooms near the parking area. We were there on a Monday morning and so there weren't a lot of people.
If we are in the area again sometime, I am sure my family would visit again."
Jenny Unternahrer
"First time hiking the trails here at the canyon. I'll definitely have to come back and make it to the falls. What i did hike was really enjoyable. The only thing I saw and from several people was the way the trail was marked. Getting back to where you were parked. The trails were not marked clearly if you parked at the main trailhead."
Joseph Tucker
"Had a wonderful hike in the canyon. Parking was easy. We hiked in the late afternoon, so we missed most of the crowd once we were down into the canyon. We took the stairs all the way down into the gulch and hiked to the other end parking lot and made our way back for a total of almost 6 miles when you include all of the stairs. We even played in the little waterfall at the bottom of all the stairs for a reward at the end of our adventure! We are in shape but the hike is doable for anyone if you take your time. The stairs are the most difficult portion, the remainder of the hike is hilly, but not much elevation gain. It was muddy in parts, would definitely recommend hiking boots/water shoes if you plan on exploring around the falls"
Heather Holstein
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Cloudland Canyon State Park is about a 2.5 to 3-hour drive from Atlanta. Take I-75 South towards Chattanooga, then take exit 350 for US-136 West. Follow US-136 West for about 15 miles, then turn right onto GA-157 South. The park entrance will be on your left.
Yes, Cloudland Canyon State Park is conveniently located about 30-40 minutes southeast of Chattanooga, Tennessee, making it a great day trip destination.
For larger RVs, it's recommended to use Highway 157 coming from Chattanooga. Avoid Road 136 off Interstate 59 as it can be a steep 6% incline. It's always best to call the park ahead for specific advice.
Public transportation options are very limited for reaching Cloudland Canyon State Park. It is best accessed by private vehicle.
Yes, Cloudland Canyon State Park offers camping with two campgrounds: West Rim (semi-wooded) and East Rim (modern look). Reservations are recommended.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The park charges a $5 entry fee per vehicle. This fee grants you access to the park's trails and overlooks.
The park is generally open from 8 AM to dusk daily. However, it's always a good idea to check the official Georgia State Parks website for any seasonal changes or specific hours.
While advance booking isn't strictly required for day use, it's highly recommended, especially during peak seasons or weekends, to secure your entry. Camping reservations are essential.
Information on specific discounts is not widely available. However, Georgia State Parks often have annual passes that can offer savings for frequent visitors.
No, the park typically closes at dusk, and re-entry after closing is not permitted. Plan your visit accordingly to allow ample time for exploration.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The park's main attractions include its deep canyons, stunning waterfalls (Cherokee and Hemlock Falls), scenic overlooks, and extensive hiking trails. It also offers opportunities for picnicking and wildlife viewing.
The hike to Cherokee and Hemlock Falls involves descending and ascending over 600 stairs, making it a strenuous workout. The rest of the canyon floor trail is hilly but less demanding.
Some visitors have noted that trail markings can be inconsistent, particularly when returning to the main trailhead. It's advisable to use a map or GPS.
The overlooks are accessible and offer great views. However, the hike down to the falls with its many stairs can be challenging for very young children or those with mobility issues.
While you can explore around the base of the waterfalls, swimming is generally not recommended or permitted due to safety concerns and strong currents.
📸 📸 Photography
The canyon overlooks provide breathtaking panoramic shots. For waterfall photography, get down to the canyon floor and capture the cascades. The fall foliage also offers incredible photo opportunities.
Yes, winter can be a magical time to photograph Cloudland Canyon, with the chance to capture stunning frozen waterfalls and icy landscapes.
Sunrise and sunset offer the most dramatic lighting for photography at the overlooks, casting a warm glow over the canyon. Midday can be harsh.
Drone usage is typically restricted in Georgia State Parks to protect wildlife and ensure visitor safety. Always check the park's specific regulations before flying.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the vastness of the canyon. A tripod can be useful for long exposures of the waterfalls, especially in low light.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For families with older, more adventurous children, the hike down to the Cherokee and Hemlock Falls can be an exciting challenge. Be prepared for the 600+ stairs and ensure children have sturdy shoes and plenty of water.
🚶 Solo Travelers
While the park is generally safe, it's always wise for solo travelers to inform someone of their hiking plans, including their intended route and expected return time.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
The park's waterfalls, Cherokee and Hemlock, provide excellent opportunities for capturing the power and beauty of moving water, especially with a tripod for long exposures. +1Don't miss the chance to photograph the park in different seasons. Winter can yield incredible shots of frozen waterfalls, while fall provides a riot of color.
Remember to bring a wide-angle lens for the grand canyon views and consider a sturdy tripod for waterfall shots. Be aware of potential restrictions on drone usage. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Hiking the Trails
+1 Remember to wear sturdy footwear, as trails can be muddy, especially after rain. Beyond the main waterfall trails, explore the East Rim Trail for different perspectives or venture onto longer backcountry routes. The park also features a 2.2-mile Waterfall Trail specifically to Cherokee Falls.
Many trails are dog-friendly, allowing you to bring your canine companions along for the adventure. Pro Tip: Download an offline map before you go, as cell service can be spotty, and trail markings aren't always perfectly clear.
Experiencing the Waterfalls
+1During winter months, these waterfalls can transform into breathtaking icy formations, offering a unique and magical spectacle for visitors.
These waterfalls are a major draw, so expect them to be popular. Visiting during off-peak hours, like early mornings or late afternoons, can provide a more serene experience.
Seasonal Beauty and Activities
The crisp autumn air is perfect for exploring the trails. Winter brings a different kind of magic, with the possibility of seeing the park's waterfalls frozen into stunning ice sculptures.
Spring brings lush greenery and blooming wildflowers, while summer offers a refreshing escape with its shaded canyons and the chance to cool off near the waterfalls (though swimming is not advised).
The park also offers camping, including cottages and yurts, allowing for overnight stays to fully immerse yourself in the natural beauty. 
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