Smithgall Woods State Park

The trails of Smithgall Woods State Park make for a pleasant mid-summer hike as they are mostly shady and along Duke's Creek. We will start on the Laurel Ridge Trail, then go to the end of the park and hike the side trails on our way back: Cathy Ellis trail to see the waterfall, the Martin's Mine Trail to explore the history of gold mining at the site, the Wetlands Loop Trail around the pond, and the Ash Creek Trail, which requires fording Duke's Creek.

Pace: If you like to hike fast, we can split the group and Jasmine will lead the fast hiker group. Fast hikers can add a side trip up Tower Road for a vigorous work-out and additional 3 miles.

Dogs must be on leash at all times and not interfere with other hikers or dogs.

 Note:  The trip leader may contact you to determine your fitness level. The trip leader reserves the right to remove anyone from the list who they feel cannot handle this trip.

Smithgall Woods State Park
61 Tsalaki Trail
Helen, GA 30545

Go North on I-85 N

Keep left to take I-985 N via EXIT 113 toward Lanier Pkwy/Gainesville.

Take the US-129/Jesse Jewell Pkwy exit, EXIT 24, toward Cleveland

Turn left onto US-129 N/Jesse Jewell Pkwy NE

Turn right onto Limestone Pkwy/US-129 N/GA-11

Turn slight right onto Cleveland Hwy/US129

Go through Cleveland. Turn right onto GA-75 Alt/Highway 75 Alternate (this is beyone Cleveland and beyond the GA-75 turn in Cleveland)

Turn right into Smithgall Woods State park

Turn left into parking lot.

There is a parking fee or you need to display your park pass if you have one.