Smithgall Woods is one of my favorite places in northeast Georgia (“one” because I have a several favorites). The thing that sets Smithgall apart is its beauty. The Park Service keeps it pristine. It has one of North Georgia’s premier trout streams. Dukes Creek runs through this specular mountain get-a-way. “Five miles of trails and 18 miles of roads allow hikers and bicyclists to explore hardwoods, streams, and wildlife.” Four paws for this hike. It has it all, and it is all wrapped up in a pristine package.

After lots of exploring and an almost two-mile hike, Cocoa walks down to Dukes Creek to cool off. The stream was clear as glass.

A covered bridge crosses over Dukes Creek.

I just had to take another photo of the trout stream and I could only stand and wish I had a rod and reel.