Red Top Mountain State Park

08/19/04

Deer country safari: Rough it family-style in suburbia's wild frontier.

by Contributor

Overview
Metro Atlanta is still in your rearview mirror when you hit this wooded wonderland on the banks of Lake Allatoona. A big draw for boaters, campers and hikers, this glorified hill has all the trappings of a true mountain retreat. A trading post, cottages, almost 100 camping sites--even a quaint lodge and conference center--make you forget Acworth's just over yonder. The clincher? Hit the trails and you might meet Bambi.

Facts
The easy 12-mile trail system winds through a forest loaded with deer--walk softly and you'll see them. The best hike is the 5.5 mile Homestead Trail, an up-and-down path that hugs Allatoona's shoreline and traverses several ridges. For beginners, the Sweet Gum Trail and other nature trails offer a leisurely walk through the woods with postcard lakeside vistas. Don't come here to break a sweat, but combine the long trail with a few short ones and you'll get a workout.