Georgia State Parks and Historic Sites
  • Southeast Tourism

Trails at Cloudland Canyon
BACKCOUNTRY LOOP TRAIL
2-mile loop. Rated moderate.
The Backcountry Loop features 11 primitive, secluded campsites, situated within pristine hemlock groves. The trail itself passes through open woods, progressing down a moderate grade into a hollow filled with spring and summer flowers. On the far end of the loop, a moderate climb brings hikers out of the hemlocks, back to level trail among oaks and hickories, and eventually back to the parking area.

WATERFALLS TRAIL
Approximately 1 mile round-trip, down and up. Rated strenuous.
The Waterfalls Trail begins on a paved section at the main overlook and progresses steeply down into the canyon. It includes more than 600 stair steps, so visitors should be aware that hiking back up can be difficult.  Both waterfalls cascade off of sheer faces at 60 and 90 feet, and are among the most beautiful in the state.  Water flow depends greatly on rain and seasons.  Swimming and climbing on rocks are strictly forbidden.

WEST RIM LOOP TRAIL
4.8-mile loop. Rated moderate.
The West Rim Loop Trail is one of the most scenic hiking trails in the Southeast. Beginning at the Daniels Creek Bridge and climbing out of the canyon onto the plateau, the trail provides magnificent views of Trenton, Georgia, neighboring Sand Mountain, and of Cloudland Canyon itself. Cottages and walk-in campsites are accessible via this trail. Passing over varied terrain, most of the hike is moderately difficult, becoming strenuous on several short sections.

SITTON'S GULCH LOOP TRAIL
6.5 miles round-trip from top of stairs. Rated strenuous.
This recently completed trail begins at the new Daniel Creek Bridge at the bottom of the Waterfalls Trail staircase. Following Daniel Creek through open, green hemlock groves, it highlights small waterfalls cascading through limestone crevices. Spring wildflowers and autumn leaves are magnificent. The trail is considered strenuous due to the 600-step staircase out of the canyon.

LONG BRANCH TRAIL
5.6 miles one-way. Rated moderate.
The Long Branch Trail is the first completed section of the Cloudland Connector Trail. Located approximately 11 miles from the park entrance, the Nickajack Rd. trailhead is open daily from sunrise to sunset. Although it currently ends at Hwy. 157 (no parking), the trail will eventually continue into the park. This multi-use trail is cooperatively managed by the Lula Lake Land Trust and the Georgia Department of Natural Resources.



Click on the map below to download a pdf file of the trail map brochure for Cloudland Canyon State Park.
Printed trail map brochures are also available at the park office.
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