Georgia is full of amazing state parks that are home to impressive waterfalls. But something that sets Tallulah Gorge apart from the rest is that there’s a natural slide here where you can take a dip in the refreshing waters to reward you after a challenging hike. Here’s how you can check it out for yourself!
Hike the Sliding Rock Trail
The best way to zip down the natural slide and cool off is to hike the Sliding Rock Trail. Pick up a free permit from the park’s Interpretative Center, but arrive early because only 100 permits are handed out per day. You’ll need to have sturdy hiking boots to attempt this trail as well because it’s all rocks and boulders with no soil to hike on. The trail is 3.4 miles round-trip and is strenuous, therefore kids under 10 and pets are not allowed. You’ll climb over giant boulders, get awesome views of Bridal Veil Falls, and cross the Tallulah River on this route.
Take a Ride Down the Natural Slide
As a reward for embarking on this challenging hike, you’ll have the opportunity to ride down a natural slide and take a dip in the only swimming area allowed in the park. So, don’t forget to pack your swimsuit in your hiking backpack! While at the swimming area and on the slide, be careful because the rocks can be very slippery. And take your time to swim around and cool off because it’s a challenging climb to get back up to the south rim.
Other Things To Do at Tallulah Gorge State Park
Tallulah Gorge is about 1,000 feet deep and two miles long, making it one of the most impressive canyons in the entire eastern U.S. Besides the Gorge Floor routes, other hiking trails at Tallulah Gorge are the Stoneplace Trail, North and South Rim Trails, Hurricane Falls Loop Trails, High Bluff Trail, and Shortline Trail. You can learn more about the natural features and history of the park in the Jane Hurt Yarn Interpretative Center, browse the gift shop, and set up camp in one of the 50 campsites or at the pioneer campground. This is truly an outdoor lover’s paradise, with opportunities for whitewater kayaking, rock climbing, mountain biking, fishing, archery, picnicking, and even playgrounds for the kids. Ranger-led and park-sponsored programs are hosted throughout the year, so check the Georgia State Parks website to see what’s happening during your visit!
Tallulah Gorge State Park Information:
- GPS Location: 338 Jane Hurt Yarn Rd, Tallulah Falls, GA 30573
- Phone: (706) 754-7981
- Website: http://www.gastateparks.org/tallulahgorge
- Rates: $5 per vehicle for parking
