Considered one of the top hiking and mountain biking spots in the tristate area of Alabama, Georgia, and Tennessee, Cloudland Canyon State Park features miles of trails and several beautiful mountain vistas. The main overlook, which is shown in my video above, is the park’s best vantage point; it provides a northerly view up the canyon that extends toward the Tennessee state line. The beautiful summer greenery accentuates the contours of the canyon, but the most colorful time of year is during the Cumberland Plateau’s fall foliage in September and October.
Cloudland Canyon is in the town of Rising Fawn, Georgia, and is easily accessed from Interstate 59 near the small city of Trenton. Highlighted treks include the easy Overlook Trail, the moderately challenging West Rim Loop Trail, and the strenuous Waterfalls Trail. Along with hiking and biking on its signature trail system, the park also offers fishing, horseback riding, disc golf, and camping. The latter is notably popular at Cloudland Canyon; tent, trailer, and RV campsites are available along with cottages and yurts.
Parking at Cloudland Canyon State Park is a flat rate of $5 USD per vehicle, which means multi-day campers enjoy the same price as those just visiting for the day. Reservations can be made via the park’s website for cabins, camping, shelters, and group gatherings.
Related Content
– Click to read my feature article “Alabama: The Mystery of the Welsh Caves” on one of the most enigmatic legends in Appalachian folklore.
– Click to view my high-resolution photo collection featuring images from nearby DeSoto State Park.
– Click to read my short story “That Damn Dakota Blue” on the bull ride in South Dakota that nearly killed me.