Cloudland Canyon: My Favorite North Georgia State Park

© Photographer: William Wise | iNat Observation: 27950294 - Timber Rattlesnake; Cloudland Canyon State Park, Georgia. May 20, 2013.

Descending the boulder-lined switchbacks, we entered the cool shadows of the canyon. Mountain laurel and Rhododendron decorate the walls and slopes; their delicious aromas delighting the senses. As we reach the gorge floor, we turn upstream toward the sound of thundering water and the dampness of the fall’s mists. A beautiful work of creation; a true temple not made by human hands. To date, Cloudland Canyon is my most favorite Georgia State Park in North Georgia that I’ve visited.

© Photographer: William Wise | iNat Observation: 27951003 - Cloudland Canyon State Park, Georgia. May 20, 2013.

The park's website is no exaggeration when it states, "Cloudland Canyon is one of the largest and most scenic parks in Georgia. Home to thousand-foot deep canyons, sandstone cliffs, wild caves, waterfalls, cascading creeks, dense woodland and abundant wildlife." ​Although we had only a few days, an entire week could easily be spent within the park. The rim trails atop the canyon’s edges provide incredible views off into the distance and deep within the gorge itself. Once down into the gorge, the hike along the river provides no less than six waterfall views.

And the reptiles! What an abundance! Other than the swamps of south Georgia, I had never encountered so many great finds in such a short period. Plenty of lizard species and wonderful encounter with a large Timber Rattlesnake sprawled across the trail. A kingsnake pointed out by other hikers was the “cherry on top”.

© Photographer: William Wise | iNat Observation: 27950676 - Black Kingsnake; Cloudland Canyon State Park, Georgia. May 20, 2013.

© Photographer: William Wise | iNat Observation: 27951230 - Black Kingsnake; Cloudland Canyon State Park, Georgia. May 20, 2013.

Posted on May 20, 2022 06:01 PM by williamwisephoto