I have not stayed at the lodge, but I did sit on the back patio they had that overlooked the mountains. It was an AMAZING view! Wow! I sat there for an hour just staring at it. The lodge is really nice inside as far as the lobby and downstairs sitting area goes. It ha an all-glass backside. So beautiful! The falls are just as beautiful. It is nice you can drive up to the top, and not have to walk it all. They have a nice playground, and Visitors Center. It is only 10 minutes away from the UNG campus!
I haven't been to Amicalola Falls in many years, but I went back recently and fell in love with it all over again. However, when I went to the top of the falls to look out over the hills and valleys, much to my surprise and disappointment, there was what appears to be a house out there in the middle of what used to be unspoiled beauty. I didn't go there to see houses. I take it as an extreme display of arrogance on the part of the homeowner, and ignorance and poor judgement of the people that allowed it happen. The park itself gets 5 stars, but the view will likely never be the same.
Definitely travel up the East Ridge Trail to the top of the falls and then come down the Appalachian Approach trail. Best way to do it! Amazing trails and scenery.
Amicalola Falls State Park is a beautiful park and hike that fits all ages and can be taken advantage of by anyone in any shape (wheelchairs included). The hike consists of approximately 600 stairs, but the falls can also be accessed by driving. You can view the falls up close from the top and bottom (driving or hiking). The water fall is gorgeous and pretty large at all times of year! You can also encounter weddings and proposals happening near the falls, if you are lucky! There is also a lodge in the park, which is rustic and has amazing views! It is reasonably priced and has it's own restaurant.You can occasionally catch a wild bird show here on the weekends; I held an owl! There are several cabins for rent that are in great locations throughout the park as well! Overall, there is lots to do and plenty of amazing views! I highly recommend this park! :)
Great place to enjoy nature. I only wish people would pick up trash after themselves in a picnic area. Also, only one cabin restroom that close to the beach and picnic area - it's very uncomfortable, when office with big restroom closed. But if the office is open, you can even take a shower, get some snacks and rent canoe.