Visit Us
The natural environment and beautiful surroundings draw thousands of visitors to Chattahoochee Forest National Fish Hatchery each year. The hatchery’s visitor kiosk and opportunity to view trout in various stages of production prove to be great attractions. Admission is free. Rock Creek, which runs through hatchery property, offers an exciting trout fishing experience for first-time and seasoned anglers. A Georgia fishing license and trout stamp are required for anglers ages 16 and older. U.S. Forest Service campgrounds are located nearby the hatchery.
Chattahoochee Forest National Fish Hatchery is just one of the many field stations of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service whose mission is working with others to conserve, protect, and enhance fish, wildlife, and plants and their habitats for the continuing benefit of the American people.
Activities
Chattahoochee Forest National Fish Hatchery is located within the Chattahoochee National Forest with many recreational opportunities.
Trails
Nearby hiking trails offer breath taking views of beautiful waterfalls, mountain summits, river valleys and a swinging bridge. With brilliant fall foliage, glistening winter frosts, springtime flowers and starry summer nights, it’s always a great time to take a hike!
| TITLE | OPEN | LENGTH | DIFFICULTY | DESCRIPTION |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Appalachian Trail | Year Round | Georgia 78.1 miles | Easy to strenuous | Covers 14 states from Georgia to Maine for a grand total of 2,193 miles. Begins in Georgia nearby the hatchery at Springer Mountain and ranges in elevation from 2,510 to 4,461 feet. Offers scenic and wildlife views. |
| Benton MacKaye Trail | Year Round | Georgia 80.0 miles | Easy to strenuous | Covers 280 miles through 3 states: Georgia, North Carolina and Tennessee. The Georgia portion includes the well-known Toccoa River Swinging Bridge which is just a few miles from the hatchery. The trail offers scenic and wildlife views. |
For more information about the Appalachian Trail and Benton MacKaye Trail, please call the U.S. Forest Service 706-745-6928 or the Appalachian Trail Conservancy 304-535-6331.
Rules and Policies
Please enjoy your visit at Chattahoochee Forest National Fish Hatchery. To help us make your visit the best experience possible, we appreciate your understanding and cooperation in following our rules and policies.
Locations
Chattahoochee Forest National Fish Hatchery is remotely located on Rock Creek Road 5 miles into the Chattahoochee National Forest, a perfect place to enjoy the great outdoors. Visitors are encouraged to contact Project Leader Kelly Taylor in advance for further information and questions about driving directions, hours and conditions.
When planning your visit, here are a few important things to keep in mind:
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The hatchery is remotely located on Rock Creek Road 5 miles off of GA Highway 60 south of Morganton/north of Dahlonega. Rock Creek Road is U.S. Forest Service Road 69. GPS and cell phones do not work in the area. From either direction, stay on GA Highway 60 to the first hatchery sign which reads "Fish Hatchery Road 1/2 mile." Then, turn at the second sign at Rock Creek Road reading "Chattahoochee Forest National Fish Hatchery 5 miles." The first mile of Rock Creek Road is paved and the last 4 miles are gravel. The visitor parking area and information kiosk are on the right.