Located at the base of Blood Mountain in Chattahoochee National Forest, Vogel State Park is the second-oldest state park in Georgia and offers 233 scenic acres that are just waiting to be explored. At an elevation of 2,500 feet, it’s one of Georgia’s highest altitude state parks and is just a short drive from Brasstown Bald, the highest peak in the entire state. From hiking and camping to swimming and fishing, this park features endless opportunities outdoor recreation and has something for everyone to enjoy – and it’s all just an hour away from Glen-Ella Springs Inn! Here are some of our favorite things to do and see in Vogel State Park.
The Top Attractions at Vogel State Park
Lake Trahlyta
Vogel State Park’s sprawling 22-acre lake is an ideal destination in the summer. On Lake Trahlyta, visitors can spend an afternoon fishing for bass, bream, and trout, or rent kayaks, stand-up paddleboards, and pedal boats. The lake also has a swimming beach that features breathtaking views, so you can relax and enjoy the surrounding valleys, ridges, and peaks of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
Wildlife
In addition to its spectacular fauna of rare wildflowers and ferns, Vogel State Park is home to many species of curious wildlife. The area is populated with white-tailed deer, black bear, and raccoons, and over 100 species of birds inhabit or migrate through the park each year. Visitors can enjoy listening to native songbirds including warblers and chickadees, and hawks, owls, and woodpeckers can often be seen flying high overhead. The creeks and streams surrounding Lake Trahlyta are also home to frogs, turtles, and salamanders.
Hiking Trails
Outdoor enthusiasts will love taking on Vogel’s four hiking trails that cover over 17 miles. Popular routes include the easy 4-mile Bear Hair Gap Trail, which loops through the Chattahoochee National Forest and leads to Trahlyta Falls, and the Coosa Backcountry Trail, a strenuous 12-mile journey that climbs up Slaughter Mountain. The Appalachian Trail can also be accessed from Neel’s Gap, just a little higher up Blood Mountain from the State Park.
Annual Events
Each year in June, Vogel State Park gives children the chance to catch a big one with their annual Kids Fishing Rodeo, where anglers 12 and under can enjoy a day of trout fishing on Wolf Creek. Or, bring the family to the park on the 4th of July and celebrate our nation’s independence with a flag-raising ceremony, bicycle parade, and tons of fun games. If you plan on visiting North Georgia in the winter, the annual Christmas Tree Lighting Festival is held each December and features hayrides, caroling, bonfires, and even a visit from Santa Claus. There’s always something going on at the park!
Stay at Glen-Ella Springs Inn!
Before you head out, be sure to download a Vogel State Park map and book your stay at our Clarkesville bed and breakfast! You can enjoy a restful night’s sleep in one of our beautiful rooms or suites, then fuel up with a delicious complimentary breakfast in the morning. It’s the perfect start to a wonderful day at Vogel State Park!
