Amicalola Falls is a must-stop for any person wanting to see spectacular waterfalls and scenic mountain-top views and enjoy nature’s wonders. It is just a short drive from the Big Canoe resort. To start, visit the information center. This area provides loads of information about the wildlife in the area, with a good exhibit and helpful wildlife managers. Maps can be obtained, with loads of brochures for everything to do in the area as well. There are three ways to get to the top of the falls. Driving is the easiest, but not very exciting. There are two trails to hike on from the information center. If you go left, it is the short hike, but with several hundred stairs to climb. To the right is the longer hike through the forest. We opted for the forest route, and I was glad we did. There were less people, and it provides some awesome views of the surrounding mountains. Both hikes are not for the weak-kneed, literally! At the top is a small creek about 10 feet wide. This was not what I had expected, but it was not the creek that caught my eye. The view of the mountains was gorgeous! Midway back down the stairway hike is a picture moment of the waterfall. Then you follow a meandering creek back to the bottom.
There is a small pond with picnic tables, and you can fish for stocked trout. I recommend a morning visit to avoid the afternoon summer heat. Small kids will have to be carried, but most other children should do well with either hike. There is also a playground at the information center the kids will want to play on. Read my other review of the lodge restaurant at the top. DO NOT MISS THIS PARK!