One of the most amazing canyons in the eastern U.S. is Tallulah Gorge State Park in Georgia at nearly two miles long and nearly 1,000 feet deep. You can hike rim trails to several overlooks, or obtain a permit to hike to the gorge floor. A suspension bridge hangs precariously about 80 feet above the water while providing incredible views of the river and waterfalls. Tightrope walkers have twice crossed the gorge, and visitors can still see towers used by Karl Wallenda.
Exhibits in the Jane Hurt Yarn Interpretive Center (at the visitor center) present a rich history of this resort town. A gift shop offers snacks, jewelry, toys, books, walking sticks, clothing and more. We had an amazing time there and think you’ll enjoy it too!
We stayed in Hiawassee, Georgia during our time in the area (we love it there) and it’s a fairly short trip (about an hour) away to Tallulah Gorge State Park. There is plenty of parking (depending on the crowds, obviously) and the trails are clearly marked and well maintained. If you don’t want to get a permit (which allows you to access the river at the bottom of the trail) you can still walk all the way down and get some amazing photos! Just be prepared because it is quite the hike back up!
The History of Tallulah Gorge State Park
Tallulah Gorge State Park is located in the northeastern part of the state of Georgia, in the United States. The park is home to the Tallulah River and the Tallulah Gorge, a deep and narrow canyon carved by the river over millions of years.
The history of the park dates back to the early 19th century when the area was first settled by European-American pioneers. The first recorded exploration of the gorge was made by botanist John Lyon in 1818. However, it wasn’t until the 1830s that the area started to attract attention from tourists and visitors.
In 1850, a man named Samuel Beck became the first person to descend into the gorge. He was looking for a route to transport timber out of the area. His successful descent opened up the area to further exploration and interest from tourists.
In the late 19th century, the Tallulah Gorge became a popular destination for sightseers and adventurers. Visitors could take a train to the nearby town of Tallulah Falls and then hike down to the gorge. The area became known for its natural beauty and stunning vistas, and was a favorite spot for painters and photographers.
In the early 20th century, the area around the Tallulah Gorge was developed for hydroelectric power. In 1913, a dam was built across the Tallulah River, creating Lake Tugalo. The dam and the lake brought electricity and jobs to the area, but also caused significant environmental damage to the gorge.
In the 1960s, a group of concerned citizens banded together to save the Tallulah Gorge from further damage. Led by local resident Jane Hurt Yarn, the group lobbied the state of Georgia to purchase the land and establish a state park. The efforts of Yarn and her group were successful, and in 1993, Tallulah Gorge State Park was established.
Today, Tallulah Gorge State Park covers more than 2,700 acres and is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can hike on trails that follow the rim of the gorge, or descend into the canyon via a staircase of more than 1,000 steps. The park also offers camping, fishing, and other recreational opportunities.
In addition to its natural beauty, Tallulah Gorge State Park is also home to several historic buildings and structures. The Jane Hurt Yarn Interpretive Center, named in honor of the park’s founder, tells the story of the gorge’s history and the efforts to preserve it. The park also features a suspension bridge that spans the gorge and offers breathtaking views of the canyon and the river below.
Here are a few links that might be helpful if you’re in the area or would like additional information on Tallulah Gorge State Park!
