Fall foliage drives in northeast Georgia

Amicalola Falls State Park in Dawsonville The short but steep (and paved) trail following the Southeast's tallest waterfall is one of the most popular in the state. Non-hikers can drive to the top and bottom of the falls, while experienced hikers will want to spend the night at the park's Hike Inn located at the end of a five-mile trek.

Black Rock Mountain State Park near Dillard Stop at the park office to buy a guide to the 2.2-mile Tennessee Rock Trail. Rated easy-to-moderate, this hike is great for families with kids.

Tallulah Gorge State Park south of Clayton Get a spectacular view of this river and waterfalls from the new suspension bridge swaying 80 feet above the gorge floor. The long staircase leading to and from the bridge will test the stamina of even the most experienced hiker.

Vogel State Park south of Blairsville One of Georgia's oldest and most popular state parks, Vogel is located at the base of Blood Mountain in the Chattahoochee National Forest. Driving from the south, visitors pass through Neel Gap, a beautiful mountain pass near Brasstown Bald, the highest point in Georgia. Vogel is particularly popular during the fall when the Blue Ridge

Mountains transform into a rolling blanket of red, yellow and gold leaves. Hikers can choose from a variety of trails, including the popular four-mile Bear Hair Gap loop, an easy one-mile lake loop, and the challenging 13-mile Coosa Backcountry Trail. Cottages, campsites and primitive backpacking sites provide a range of overnight accommodations.

Smithgall Woods Conservation Area (www.gastateparks. org/info/smithgall) near Helen and Cleveland North Georgia's premier trout stream, Dukes Creek, runs through this spectacular mountain property and is a favorite for catch-and-release fishing. Four miles of trails and 18 miles of roads allow hikers and bicyclists to explore hardwoods, streams and wildlife. Trout fishing and van tours are offered only on certain days of the week, so visitors should call for a current schedule. Georgia Forestry

Commission Rangers will provide weekly foliage reports that will now be posted each Thursday afternoon. The foliage report can also be heard by calling 1-800-GA-TREES (428-7337). These reports are intended to relay information on the progression of fall in Georgia's forests.