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Details

Distance

1.9 miles

Route Type

Loop

Description

Added by John Clairmont

This is a gentle, lakeside trail through the forest and across a dam.

Unicoi State Park is a pleasant, refreshing park just outside of Helen, GA. There is a hiking trail, kayaking/canoeing launch, paddle boat rentals, camping area, and even a 3 segment zipline course (all three were fantastic)! Fishing is allowed, and when we went last there were a few kayakers fishing along a bank of the lake. There are bathroom facilities and a park office on-site.

There are several parking areas here, the two most accessible spots are on either end of the dam. If you do not have a state park pass, it will cost $5 (self-serve pay drop in the lots or card online) to park per day. 

The Unicoi Lake Trail is well marked with blazes and just under 2 miles long with very little elevation change. Most of it is directly along the lake, allowing for many angles to take lake photographs. There is a fun floating bridge across the lake from the dam. Be careful on the dam section if your group is large or you have young kids, you will be walking along the road although the shoulder is large enough for two people to walk side by side.

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Features

Chillin
Fishing
Photography
Running
Kayaking
Swimming
Hiking
Bathrooms
Beach
Dog Friendly
Easy Parking
Family Friendly
Forest
Lake
Picnic Area

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Leave No Trace

Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

Nearby

Anna Ruby Falls

Raven Cliff Falls

Hike to Dukes Creek Falls

Unicoi Gap and Indian Grave Gap Loop

Hike to Horsetrough Falls

Mount Yonah Trail