Visit the Etowah Indian Mounds in Cartersville, Georgia, for a holistic cultural experience that examines Mississippian Culture from 1000 A.D. to 1550 A.D. The 54-acre site is the most intact location pertaining to Mississippian Culture found in the Southeast United States, according to Georgia State Parks. Take a picnic lunch and spend the day touring the six earthen mounds, including the massive 63-foot flat top platform that was once the foundation of the priest-chief's home. The site also features a village common area and plaza. Learn more about the culture at the museum, home to artifacts detailing the religious and political beliefs through relics and pictures showing tattoos, hairstyles, ear ornaments and shell beads. Etowah River is available by hiking trails from the mounds, surrounding with native trees and plants.
Enjoy the natural beauty of Red Top Mountain State Park, which includes Lake Altoona in Cartersville. Named for the soil's ruddy red coloring, due to a high iron-ore level, Red Top Mountain was an important iron mining community many years ago, according to Georgia State Parks. Spend your time hiking along the Iron Hill Trail, or go boating on the 12,000-acre lake. Boat rentals are available at the Park Marine. Swim at the seasonal swimming beach or head to a cove and go fishing. A reconstructed 1860s historic home site featuring a rustic log cabin and blacksmith shop is open to visitors at the park. For overnight excursions, the 1,776-acre park has a yurt, 18 cottages and 92 RV, tent or camper sites.
Take a trip to Rock City, located on top of Lookout Mountain just outside of Chattanooga, and experience the ancient rock formations. The famous rock formations are dated to approximately 200 years old. With a view that extends to seven states, Rock City Gardens is situated 1,700 feet above sea level. Hike the Enchanted Trails to view a 100-foot waterfall, Swing-A-Long Bridge and 1,000-ton rock that is balanced precariously. The gardens feature more than 400 native plants and offer self-guided walks along the 14-acre property allow you to fully appreciate the natural beauty.
