Public events are scheduled in many of the state’s most scenic parks and historic sites, such as Skidaway Island, Etowah Indian Mounds and Sweetwater Creek.
Sponsored by the American Hiking Society, National Trails Day is held the first Saturday of each June and highlights 200,000 miles of trails that crisscross our nation.
While most events are set for Saturday, June 6, a number of programs will happen throughout the month. A partial listing of National Trails Day events is below, and more details can be found at www.GeorgiaStateParks.org.
To make reservations for camping, cottages or lodge rooms, call 1-800-864-7275.
To learn more about the American Hiking Society’s National Trails Day, visit www.AmericanHiking.org.
Some of the events are:
Walk On the Wild Side Twilight Hike
Thursday, June 4, 7 p.m.- 8:30 p.m.
Panola Mountain State Park - Stockbridge
Lace up your hiking shoes and see the nightlife of Panola Mountain. This adventure will introduce you to the evening world of the forest and swamps. Register in advance. The cost is $5 plus $5 for parking. For more information, call 770-389-7801.
Day of Discovery at Etowah
Saturday, June 6, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.
Etowah Indian Mounds Historic Site - Cartersville
Recent findings at Etowah Indian Mounds will be discussed by archaeologists Adam King and Kent Reilly. Afterward, climb the top of a mound and walk along the Etowah River. This is an American Hiking Society National Trails Day event. The cost is between $2.50 and $5. For more information, call 770-387-3747.
National Trails Day in Pine Mountain
Saturday, June 6, 10 a.m. - 8 p.m.
F.D. Roosevelt State Park - Pine Mountain
Attention trail enthusiasts, beginners or advanced. Explore the wonderful trails of Georgia’s largest state park. Activities include presentations on tent selection and backpacking, a wildlife hike and night hike, critter encounters and more. It will cost $5 for parking. For details, call 706-663-4858.
Cathead Creek Canoe Excursion
Saturday, June 6, 8:30 a.m.
Fort King George Historic Site - Darien
Paddle a 3-mile trip through old rice canals with a variety of plants and wildlife.(Intermediate). It will cost $25 and the fee includes canoe, paddle and life jacket. Participants are responsible for their own food and water. Call 912-437-4770 for details.
“Beat the Heat” Nature Hike
Saturday, June 6, 9 a.m. - 11 a.m.
High Falls State Park - Jackson
Join a ranger on National Trails Day for an early stroll to explore the flora and fauna of this park on the geologic fall line. There is a $5 parking fee. For more information, call 478-993-3053.
Backpacking 101
Saturday, June 6, 1 p.m. - 2 p.m.
High Falls State Park - Jackson
Always wanted to go backpacking but never knew where to start? This program will educate you on how to pack and what to leave behind. Also learn “Leave No Trace” principles. Parking will cost $5. For more details, call 478-993-3053.




