Georgia State Parks & Historic Sites will celebrate Independence Day with special events across the state, marking America’s 250th anniversary.
The Chattooga High School Marching Band is holding a Sportsman Raffle fundraiser featuring outdoor gear, fishing equipment, and a guided fishing trip on Weiss Lake.
The raffle package includes a YETI Roadie 24 cooler, a guided fishing trip for two on Weiss Lake through Whaley & Son Guide Service, a fishing rod and reel combo, a Snackle Box, and a pack of Gatorade.
Tickets are $25 each or five tickets for $100, with only 200 tickets available.
The drawing is scheduled for May 30, 2026.
Supporters interested in purchasing tickets or helping support the CHS Marching Band are encouraged to contact band representatives for more information.
James H. “Sloppy” Floyd State Park will offer two outdoor activities on Saturday, May 16, giving Northwest Georgia residents a chance to explore nature through hands-on fossil crafting and an evening paddle on the lake.
One of Northwest Georgia’s most popular trail running events is returning to Summerville this fall with a special milestone celebration.
An evening under the stars is planned in Chattooga County as James H. “Sloppy” Floyd State Park hosts a special Moon Pie Hike on May 2nd at 7:30 PM.
The guided hike will take participants on an easy walk around the lower lake, where they’ll enjoy Moon Pies and hot cocoa while watching the moonrise from the lower dam.
Park officials recommend bringing a flashlight, a blanket to sit on, and wearing comfortable shoes. Guests will meet park rangers outside the park office before the hike begins.
The cost is $3 per person, and a $10 park pass is required for parking. Registration is also required in advance by calling the park office at 706-857-0826.
The event offers a relaxing way for families and visitors across Northwest Georgia to enjoy the outdoors and a unique nighttime experience.
James H. “Sloppy” Floyd State Park will host a Wildflower Hike on Saturday, May 2, giving participants a chance to explore local trails while learning about native plants.
The guided hike will begin at 10 a.m., with park rangers leading visitors along the Lower Lake Trail. Participants will learn about Georgia’s native wildflowers and which species are most important to pollinators.
Attendees are asked to meet at the park office by 10 a.m. and should bring plenty of water and wear comfortable walking shoes.
The cost is $3 per person, and a $10 park pass is required. Registration is also required in advance.
For more information or to register, call the park at 706-857-0826.
Scouting America Troop 7 in Summerville is inviting local youth and families to an upcoming open house to learn more about scouting opportunities in the community.
The event will be held Monday, April 20 at 6:30 p.m. at the Scout Hut located at 220 Highway 100 in Summerville.
Organizers say the open house will give attendees a chance to meet current scouts and adult leaders, learn about camping and outdoor adventures, and explore leadership and service opportunities offered through the program. There will also be time to ask questions about joining Troop 7.
The event is open to youth ages 11 to 17, along with parents and guardians. No prior scouting experience is required.
Everyone is invited to come out and discover what Scouting America has to offer.
The Chattooga River Group is inviting the public to take part in an upcoming Blue Trail paddle event on Lyerly Dam Road in Summerville. The paddle will begin with a mass launch at 10 a.m. and will follow the route from Lyerly Dam Launch to Chattoogaville.
Special guest Shane Kornberg, former manager of the Fish Hatchery in Cohutta and now an Agriculture and Natural Resources Agent with UGA Extension in Whitfield County, will lead discussion during the outing. Organizers say Kornberg will cover topics including river ecology, invasive versus native species, and the benefits of a diverse ecosystem.
Participants will need to bring their own kayak, paddle, life jacket, and snacks, and should also make their own transportation arrangements for after the paddle. Organizers say each participant will be asked to provide an emergency contact and sign a waiver before launching.
The 2026 Friends of Georgia State Parks Annual ParkPass is now available, marking the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence and giving outdoor enthusiasts a way to enjoy Georgia’s state parks while supporting them directly.
Cloudmont Ski Resort Watching Weather, Optimistically Targeting Saturday Opening on Lookout Mountain
Cloudmont Ski Resort on Lookout Mountain in Mentone, Alabama says it’s watching conditions closely and, if the weather cooperates, is optimistically aiming for an opening day this Saturday, January 17. The resort plans to open at 9:00 a.m. Central Time.