Amenities

  The Sawnee Mountain Preserve offers a number of amenities that are available for the general public. The second phase of the Master Plan is nearly complete and planning for the third phase has begun.



New Visitor Center
The brand new Visitor Center, located at 4075 Spot Road in Cumming, opens to the public on March 15, 2008. The 5,600 square foot facility includes an exhibit hall focused on the natural and cultural histories of the mountain, a classroom and laboratory, a resource library/lounge and a native plant garden with a waterfall feature. Sustainable green building practices were incorporated into the design of the facility. Public and school programs will be based out of this site. The Center also serves as the administrative home to the Outdoor Division of Forsyth County Parks and Recreation.

The classroom/laboratory is available for rental. Click here to learn more about our facility rentals. To make reservations, please complete the SMPVC Rental Agreement and call 770-781-2217 between the hours of 8:30am-5:00pm, Monday - Friday for further information.
 
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Hiking Trails
There are over 3 miles of trails and hikers can choose the gentler Yucca Trail, the panoramic Indian Seats Trail or the challenging Laurel Trail. All trails connect and are part of the long range trail system planned for Sawnee Mountain. Please click on the link above to view our trail system map. Trails are for foot traffic only and are designed for all levels of hikers. Please note that dogs and horses are not allowed on the trails.  
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Indian Seats
A natural rock formation at the top of the trail system, these unusual boulders offer a beautiful setting for enjoying the views of the North Georgia Mountains. This is also a perfect location for family photographs, particularly during the fall leaf season.  
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Amphitheater

A 140 seat facility nestled into the natural landscape of Sawnee Mountain at the Bettis Tribble Gap Road entrance, this amphitheater was given to the citizens of Forsyth County by Northside Hospital - Forsyth. Concerts, storytellers and theater performances are scheduled seasonally. Please refer to our Calendar of Events page for upcoming programs. The amphitheater is available for small group gatherings, lectures and outdoor class rentals. Please call 770-781-2217 between the hours of 8:30am-5:00pm, Monday - Friday for further information.

Click here to learn more about our facility rentals. To make reservations, please complete the Pavilion Rental Agreement or call 770-781-2217 between the hours of 8:30am - 5:00pm, Monday - Friday for further information.
 
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Picnic Pavilions
There are 2 picnic pavilions available for public use at the Bettis Tribble Gap Road entrance. Picnic pavilions are available on a first come first served basis unless a reservation is posted. Fires, including grills and/or campfires are not allowed anywhere on the mountain. For more information on reserving a pavilion, please call 770-781-2217 between the hours of 8:30am-5:00pm, Monday - Friday.

Click here to learn more about our facility rentals. To make reservations, please complete the Pavilion Rental Agreement or call 770-781-2217 between the hours of 8:30am - 5:00pm, Monday - Friday for further information.
 
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Playground

This small playground is provided for the entertainment of our youngest visitors to the mountain. It is located adjacent to the picnic pavilions and offers another opportunity for families with small children to enjoy Sawnee Mountain.  
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Climbing Area
Climbing and rappelling is prohibited without a permit. Ten-day permits are available at the Visitor Center. Please call 770-781-2217 between the hours of 8:30am-5:00pm, Monday - Friday for more information. Fines for climbing without a permit may exceed $200.  
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Tree Canopy Classroom
The new Tree Canopy classroom on the Visitor Center grounds offers a unique learning experience. Programs will be offered in the future - stay tuned!  
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Future phases will add new amenities, including additional connecting trails and trail head facilities, a possible renovation of the old Round House and a wilderness training area.


 
Sawnee Mountain offers a variety of amenities that are available for public use.