Wildlife Viewing Guide

Wildlife Viewing > Northwest Georgia Mountains > Cloudland Canyon

Description: This viewing site is one of the largest and most scenic state parks in Georgia. The rugged beauty of the park is enjoyed year-round. Cloudland Canyon is an eroded gorge of nearly perpendicular slopes dropping 1,000 feet to the valley below. It is an excellent area to learn the fascinating geology which has formed the northeast corner of Georgia. Steep cliffs, open fields, hardwood forests, creeks, and mighty waterfalls are found throughout this natural treasure. An old farm now serves to demonstrate wildlife habitat management practices and attracts many species of game and nongame animals. Native fruiting vegetation and planted food plots bring wildlife in for a close view. Both easy and challenging hiking trails are available. The trails are well interpreted for lessons in both the natural history and geology of the area.

Viewing Information: A hillside platform overlooking planted food plots and ponds offers the best opportunities to see wildlife. One might see hawks, vultures, golden eagles, or peregrine falcons soaring overhead during fall migrations. There are also large populations of white-tailed deer and wild turkeys. Nearby McCarty Bluff is the premier hang gliding site in the eastern U.S., providing a unique viewing opportunityfor those who wish to watch others throw themselves off sheer cliffs.

Directions: From Trenton, travel GA Hwy. 136 east 8 miles. Entrance is clearly marked.

Management: Georgia DNR, Parks and Historic Sites Division, 706-657-4050

Closest Town: Trenton, GA

Site Notes: observation platforms, cottages, interpretive programs (summer months), group shelter, group camp, picnic shelters, swimming pool, tennis courts

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