Fort Mountain State Park, located in the North Georgia mountains, is a destination that blends natural beauty, outdoor activities, and intriguing history. Recently, FOX 5 meteorologist Laurann Robinson visited the park and took a guided tour with Fort Mountain Park Manager Emmanuel Stewart, uncovering both the scenic and mysterious sides of this Appalachian gem.
The hike began with a journey to one of the park’s most iconic features: a mysterious ancient stone wall that has puzzled historians for centuries. “A hike with a history lesson — and a bit of a whodunit,” Robinson remarked as she approached the wall.
After a roughly 15-minute trek, Robinson arrived at the site and asked about the origins of the structure. Stewart explained the ongoing mystery. “The Cherokee people, when they were here, said the wall was already here before them,” he said. “So, who built it?… I guess we may never know.”
From the wall, the tour led to another historic landmark: the park’s fire tower. Constructed during the Great Depression by the Civilian Conservation Corps—a federal program designed to create jobs while developing public lands—the fire tower also holds a tale of romance. Stewart shared a touching story about a worker who missed his girlfriend so much that he carved a special stone and placed it at the center of the tower to honor their love.
The journey continued to the west overlook, offering visitors a panoramic view of the valley below. “This looks out over the entire valley,” Stewart said. “Right below us is Chatsworth, and in the distance is Dalton. On a clear day, you can even see all the way to Lookout Mountain.”
Covering 4,000 acres, Fort Mountain State Park caters to all levels of hikers. “We have a little bit of everything,” Stewart noted. “For an easy walk, there’s the trail around the lake. But for more seasoned hikers, we have a nine-mile loop that runs along the park’s rim, full of ups and downs, stunning views, and plenty of wildlife.”
For those wishing to spend more time immersed in nature, the park offers campgrounds and recently renovated two-bedroom cabins. These cabins come with full kitchens, screened-in porches, and cable TV, making them a comfortable option for overnight stays. “All you need is some charcoal and firewood,” said Stewart, pointing to an outdoor fire pit. “Light it up, and you’re all set.”
Recreation at the park extends beyond the trails. Visitors can enjoy a 17-acre lake where swimming, fishing, and sunbathing on the beach are popular pastimes. Kayaks, paddle boats, and canoes are available to rent, and guests are welcome to bring their own paddle boards or fishing gear.
“And even if you don’t get completely in the water,” Robinson said, “hanging out at the beach is a great way to relax after an afternoon of hiking.”
From ancient mysteries and historic landmarks to outdoor adventure and peaceful lakeside relaxation, Fort Mountain State Park offers a rich and rewarding experience for every kind of traveler.
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