Elevate your view this fall at Amicalola Falls State Park’s newest aerial adventure
By Mackenzie N. Morgan
Zip your way into Fall this autumn at Georgia’s newest zipline canopy tour at Amicalola Falls State Park and Lodge in Dawsonville, Georgia. Built by American Adventure Park Systems, the new level two zipline course promises guests the ultimate zipline experience with longer, higher and faster ziplines utilizing the safest technology in the industry.
To celebrate the grand opening of Amicalola’s Aerial Adventure Park’s newest attraction, Georgia State Park officials, media and other special guests participated in a half-day zipline adventure on Sept. 19. The day consisted of a welcome lunch, safety briefing, and Q&A with Heath Carter, Regional VP of Sales & Marketing for Coral Hospitality and Mike Holder, Owner of American Adventure Park Systems.
“As a renowned fall travel destination for thrill seekers and leaf peepers, we are excited to now offer a longer, even more exciting zipline course just in time for the peak season at Amicalola Falls State Park and Lodge,” said Carter. “Our adventure park is a favorite for families, friends and groups looking to step out of their comfort zones together, and the Level 2 course will offer more opportunities for groups to take a ride on their adventurous side.”
Before heading out to zipline, Carter gave a tour of the lodge, which recently underwent multi-million dollar renovations including a redesigned lobby, updated guestrooms and cabins as well as upgrades to the lodge’s meeting and event spaces.
Nestled in the heart of the Chattahoochee National Forest, Amicalola Falls is perfect for romantic getaways, family trips and even teambuilding outings. In addition to the lodge’s indoor accommodations, the park also welcomes guests to stay at one of its 25 expertly maintained campsites which feature comfort stations including laundry facilities, showers and restrooms along with running water, electricity, grills and more.
Ziplining has been on my bucket list for quite some time and I was delighted to get a chance to check it off just in time for my 29th birthday. Bear in mind (no pun intended), the hike can be strenuous at times, but the actual zipline ride is surprisingly relaxing. The team of helpful and humorous guides were an equally wonderful part of the experience as each one was patient, friendly and competent. There is a total of six skywalk bridges and 17 ziplines ranging from short distances across small patches of forest to longer flights over mountainous terrain at speeds of up to 65 miles per hour. At its peak, the highest zipline is 250 feet high and 2,000 feet in length.
After I finally stopped screaming and opened my eyes, I was awestruck by the beauty and splendor of all the trees and mountains. I felt so blessed to be among nature at that altitude. I remember saying out loud to myself, “Oh – my – God.” Then, it was over. It’s an experience I’ll never forget and plan to share with anyone who will come along.
With fall just beginning, this is the perfect time of year to experience the changing colors of the leaves alongside awe-inspiring mountain views. In addition to Ziplining, Amicalola Falls offers a variety of activities from 3-D archery, zip lining, hiking, team-building programs, survivalist camping, a climbing wall, GPS scavenger hikes, storytelling and more.
The Bear’s Den Gift Shop makes gift giving easy with an eclectic selection of wilderness books and handcrafted items. You can also rent a GoPro adventure camera to capture all your memories without the risk of losing your phone. After spending a day in the woods, adventurers can refuel at the lodge’s Maple Restaurant which offers traditional American and classic Southern fare accompanied by breathtaking panoramic views of Amicalola Falls Park.
‘Elevate Your View’ fall package now available
For a limited time, Amicalola Zipline and Aerial Adventure Park is offering travelers looking to extend the fun a special discount. The package includes one night stay in the lodge and a Level 1 aerial adventure tour for two for $99 per person. Guests may upgrade to include the level two course for an additional cost. Use promo code ‘ZIPFALL’ when booking. For more information or to make a reservation, visit www.AmicalolaFallsLodge.com or call 800-573-9656. Amicalola Falls is located at 418 Amicalola Falls State Park Road, Dawsonville.