Fall not only brings cooler weather, but it also transforms forests into blankets of red, orange and gold. When the leaves change colors, it is the prime time for leaf peepers to pull out their cameras and lace up their hiking boots. To help track the changing leaves and plan autumn escapes, Georgia State Parks will launch Leaf Watch 2011 beginning on October 1 at www.GeorgiaStateParks.org.
Travelers can check Leaf Watch 2011 for advice on where and when to find the best color in Georgia’s state parks. They can read updates from park rangers, get safety tips for hiking and browse event calendars. Additionally, last minute availability for campsites, cabins and lodge rooms in the state parks will also be posted.
Typically, northern Georgia peaks in late October; however, color can be seen as early as September and as late as mid-November. Some parks in southern Georgia put on a pretty display during late autumn, particularly those with cypress trees and tea-colored swamps such as George L. Smith State Park.
“Fall is a great time to get outdoors and enjoy Mother Nature’s handiwork,” said State Parks Director Becky Kelley. “We have short nature trails that are great for kids, and longer trails that are perfect for backpackers. We even have roadside overlooks, so come on out and enjoy our great state parks this autumn.”
Some of the most popular spots for leaf watching include Amicalola Falls, Black Rock Mountain, Cloudland Canyon, Tallulah Gorge, Unicoi and Vogel. For quieter getaways, visitors may want to explore parks further south, which can be just as vibrant. Georgia’s newest state park, Chattahoochee Bend, features thick hardwoods reflecting off the winding river. Beautiful maples and oaks can be found on the Pine Mountain Trail at F.D. Roosevelt State Park.
Georgia has nearly 50 state parks, providing affordable “staycations” to residents and a not-so-far-away mountain escapes for Floridians. Park rangers advise guests to make reservations as soon as possible. It is not uncommon for cabins to be reserved 11 months in advance, and many campgrounds fill up early on pretty weekends. Reservations can be made by calling 1-800-864-7275 or by going online at www.GeorgiaStateParks.org.