Trahlyta Lake

Vogel State Park is one of Georgia’s oldest and most popular state parks and is located at the base of Blood Mountain in the Chattahoochee National Forest. The park was one of the first two state parks established by the State of Georgia and was founded in 1931 during the early years of the state park system. Much of Vogel State Park was developed during the 1930s by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC), whose workers constructed many of the park’s original roads, buildings, trails, and other facilities. Today, the historic CCC influence can still be seen throughout the park, particularly around the lake and campground. Vogel Lake is the centerpiece of the park and is surrounded by forested mountains, making it a popular destination for camping, fishing, swimming, picnicking, and hiking. The park’s location at the southern base of Blood Mountain also makes it a convenient stopping point for hikers exploring the Appalachian Trail and the surrounding North Georgia mountains.

This short loop hike begins at the visitor center and follows a trail around the shoreline of Vogel Lake, providing an easy introduction to the park’s scenery. Along the way, the trail crosses a dam and spillway where water flowing from the lake creates an impressive waterfall, which can also be viewed from a short side trail. The route passes through a wooded landscape with occasional openings that provide views toward the surrounding mountains and Blood Mountain in the distance. Because the hike is relatively short, easy to follow, and does not require a strenuous climb, it is well suited for families and small children. Several longer and more challenging wilderness trails begin near the campground, including routes that lead deeper into the surrounding Chattahoochee National Forest, but the lake loop is a good choice when you are simply looking for a pleasant hike to entertain the kids. After completing the loop, there are plenty of other activities to enjoy at Vogel State Park, including the campground, lake, picnic areas, and miniature golf course. And for many young hikers, the best way to finish the outing may be a game of putt-putt followed by an ice cream from the visitor center.