Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Vogel State Park is a nature lover’s paradise. Weather you explore the waterfall, take a paddle boat on the lake, rent a cabin or go for a swim, there is something for everyone to enjoy!

Getting to Vogel State Park

Vogel State Park is a beautiful park located in Union County, Georgia, at the base of Blood Mountain. It is about 1 hour and 45 minutes from Atlanta. The park entrance fee is $5 per car, and they accept both cards and cash.

There are a few different areas to park here. When you first enter the park, there is a large parking lot to the right of the main road. This is a good option if you want to be close to the park office, the visitor center, and the lake. If you continue down the main road, there are a few smaller parking areas along the way. These are a good option if you want to be closer to the hiking trails or the picnic areas.

Trahlyta Falls

An easy trail you can’t miss in Vogel State Park: Trahlyta Falls. Only a 1.5miles loop, this trail takes you to the gorgeous waterfall and around the lake. You can start from any of the parking lots, though the second one will be closer to the trail. You’ll follow the trail around the lake until you reach the dam on the opposite side of the lake. Here you can take in the beautiful views of the lake with the mountain in the background. 

When you’re ready, follow the sign next to the trees through the forest. This path will take you directly to the observation deck to see the falls. 

You’ll see some small side trails along the way, if you take these they lead to the base of the falls, behind the observation deck. From here there aren’t any views of the falls because the deck will be blocking the view. When you’re ready to head back, retrace your steps to the dam then continue around the lake. The trail makes a loop and will lead you back to your parking lot.

More Trails to Explore in Vogel State Park

There are 13 different hiking trails at Vogel, all varying length and difficulty. 

Bear Hair Gap Trail: 4 miles, moderate. This is the most popular trail in the park, and it takes you to Bear Hair Gap, which offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

Neels Gap Trail: 3.5 miles, moderate. This trail takes you to Neels Gap, a mountain pass in the Blue Ridge Mountains. It offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

Reece Farm Heritage Trail: 0.5 miles, easy. This trail takes you through a historic farmstead that was once owned by the Reece family.

No matter what you decide to do, you’re sure to enjoy your visit to Vogel State Park. The park has something to offer everyone, from hiking and fishing to camping and picnicking. Looking for more trails in the area? Checkout Preacher’s Rock, Desoto Falls, or Ramrock Mountain.