An easy, half-mile loop trail in Smithgall Woods State Park passes a beaver pond and a wetland. A boardwalk and a large observation platform are ideal for birdwatching by the pond. Nature, history and river experiences offer different sides of White County: As you plan your trip, you can start by considering which of these discoveries interests you most.
Discover nature: trails, a pond and trout fishing
The loop trail is one way to experience the wetland and beaver pond. Smithgall Woods State Park also has five miles of trails and 18 miles of roads for hikers and cyclists.
Catch-and-release trout fishing is available on Dukes Creek in Smithgall Woods State Park. Seasonal and reservation rules apply. If you plan to take part, check the current rules and reservation options in advance.
Unicoi State Park and Lodge also combines trails with a body of water: Smith Lake covers 53 acres and offers recreational opportunities, including a swimming beach and fishing piers. The park also has eight miles of hiking trails. Information about facilities and trail mileage may be updated, so check before your visit.
Stories and historic places
Hardman Farm is home to the Sautee Nacoochee Indian Mound, a landmark crowned by a gazebo and notable for its ties to the history of Indigenous peoples of the Americas. The historic Unicoi Turnpike runs alongside Hardman Farm State Historic Site. Guided house tours also include the 19th-century parlor. The grounds offer both traces of the past outdoors and a room from the history of the house.
The Sautee Nacoochee History Museum is dedicated to the history and passed-down stories of the Sautee and Nacoochee valleys. If you’re interested in the stories and past of these valleys, you’ll find a different perspective here than on a tour of a historic site: The focus is on the history and passed-down stories of the two valleys.
Helen and the Chattahoochee River
The Chattahoochee River flows through Helen, a town with the character of an Alpine Bavarian village. Together, they create a distinctive contrast: the townscape has an Alpine Bavarian feel, while the river runs through Helen.
In the warmer months, typically from May through September, visitors can float down the Chattahoochee River in Helen with outfitters such as Helen Tubing & Waterpark and Cool River Tubing. The outfitters offer drop-off and pick-up services. Because this is a seasonal activity, it’s worth checking dates and offerings for your intended visit before making plans.
Outside Helen, on the banks of the Chattahoochee River, is Nora Mill Granary. Built in 1876, the grist mill is fully operational.
More experiences and insights
At the Georgia Mountain Coaster, visitors ride down the mountain and through the forest in Helen. Yonah Mountain Vineyards offers a different perspective on the landscape, with a tasting room overlooking the vineyards. A cave tour with wine tasting is also available at Georgia’s only known wine cave. The tour should be arranged in advance.
Babyland General Hospital offers an unusual visitor experience: visitors can witness the birth of a “Newborn” from the Cabbage Patch line. There is also a free app and a brochure-based tour for exploring attractions and historic sites in Helen and Sautee Nacoochee. These let you explore the area’s historical and cultural themes at your own pace.
Discover more destinations: Helen, Sautee Nacoochee, Haralson County, Fayette, Habersham County, Murray County, Meriwether County, Catoosa.
For the broader travel overview: Georgia.
