Just because the weather is cooler this time of year doesn’t mean there’s a shortage of activities at Unicoi State Park & Lodge. Bypass the crowds that usually fill our North Georgia State Park in the summer and take advantage of the tranquil winter months.

If you’re the type of person who avoids being outside in the peak summer months, then maybe you’d prefer to scratch your activity itch during a cooler time of year. While temperatures can get chilly at night, average daytime highs in January (50°F), February (54°F) and March (62°F) are mild, if not downright pleasant.

So, read on to discover what you can do under the warm(ish) winter sun at Unicoi State Park & Lodge!

Fresh Air & Adventure

Hiking is a popular activity in North Georgia every month of the year. While the lush greens of the summer months aren’t present, the winter woodlands aren’t any less beautiful. Three of the park’s trails are worth exploring on your next trip to our mountain resort.

Unicoi Lake Trail is a family-friendly path that winds around the edge of the 53-acre Unicoi Lake. The relatively flat trail offers a great pathway for family fun and lakeside views. Pick up a tree identification guide and learn how to identify trees common to Unicoi and the North Georgia Mountains.

If you want to slide into Alpine Helen, GA for a day visit but keep your vehicle parked, try the 3-mile Unicoi to Helen Trail. Trek through stands of hibernating rhododendron and mountain laurels and cross several small streams before reaching Unicoi Hill City Park in Helen. The attractions and events hosted by our favorite Bavarian-themed town are just beyond the park.

For guests seeking more of a challenge, Smith Creek Trail may be ideal. The 4.8-mile U.S. Forest Service trail goes from the Unicoi State Park campground, through part of the Chattahoochee National Forest, to Anna Ruby Falls Recreation Area. The trail is considered strenuous, and guests are encouraged to bring water, wear appropriate footwear, and should use a personal vehicle to shuttle back to the park if hiking one direction.

Take Aim at Fun

For families or groups looking for some action, Unicoi State Park Archery & Air Gun Range has everything you need. This engaging experience is available at only a handful of state parks and Unicoi’s facilities are among the finest in Georgia.

Accessed west of the main park entrance along GA-356, the site is set up for static archery target practice, 3-D archery target practice and air gun rifle target practice. All three areas of the range are considered ADA accessible with wide concrete walkways and platforms available for use.

At $25 per person for a 90-minute session and access to Unicoi’s own equipment, the value can’t be beat. Patrons can choose from archery or airsoft shooting and Unicoi will provide certified instructors, compound bow, target arrows, and targets for archery or airsoft pellets, targets, and airsoft guns. If patrons want to try both, a three-hour session is just $45. Parties of 10 or more are eligible for special rates, so groups should call ahead to inquire about pricing.

One of the best features of the range is that even participants with little to no experience can learn the basic skills and create lasting memories. Youth compound bows have a 10-pound draw while the adult compound bows are only a 20-pound draw. Outside equipment is permitted with a $5 facility fee, but everything participants need is provided by the range.

Safety is a top priority on the range and the highly trained staff will ensure every participant knows the rules and techniques to have a fun experience and lasting memories.

More to Explore & Save

Don’t forget that Unicoi State Park & Lodge is the best place to zipline in Helen, GA. Enjoy unobstructed views from the leafless winter canopy on our Zipline & Aerial Adventure Tour which is perfect for any level of thrill-seeker.

The adventure features 19 ziplines and 7+ suspension bridges that range from 75 to 2,000 feet long and as high as 100 feet off the ground. Three experience options, ranging from youth to beginner to advanced, are available for booking.

There are many other activities available to guests and visitors including Fly Fishing Classes, Scheduled Educational Animal Encounters, a GPS Scavenger Hunt, Campfire Stories in the evening and much more. We recommend calling the Visitor Center at 706-878-4727 ahead of your arrival to inquire about and book available activities during your stay.

Overnight stays at some of the most popular Georgia State Park cabin rentals are even better this time of year with the Cozy Cabin Deal. This special, which runs through March 31, secures a discounted rate on a 2-night stay in one of our 30 cabins in Helen, GA. The package also includes a 2 Unicoi mugs, hot chocolate and a S’mores kit plus kindling/ firewood upon arrival. Stretching out by the fire after a day of hiking and adventure has never been easier. Book online or call 1-800-573-9659 to secure your Helen, GA cabin rental today.