Acres of sunflowers are in full bloom at Smithgall Woods State Park in Helen. That means it’s also time to participate in Sunflowers & Selfies, an annual event that raises funds for the Cabin Fever Campaign. The event runs this weekend, August 29-30, and next Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, September 4th-6th from 10:00 AM until 3:00 PM. Cost is a $5.00 parking pass per vehicle and a $3.00 per person fee for the guided hike.
Because of the COVID-19, the only way to see the sunflowers is through the guided hike. Hikes will take about 35 minutes and go almost a mile along the paved road that is closed to vehicles. During the hike, participants will learn about the history of the park. Cost for the guided hike is $3.00 per person; all proceeds go toward the Cabin Fever Campaign. Hikes leave on the hour at 10:00 AM, 11:00 AM, 12:00 PM, 1:00 PM, and 2:00 PM.
Reservations for the hike must be made in advance by calling the Visitor’s Center at (706) 878-3087. You’ll need to indicate the day and the time of the hike you want to take. Groups will be kept small to encourage social distancing.
The park is also hosting a photo contest of photos taken during the event. Photos can be shared at #SGWSelfies 20 on Instagram or tagged Smithgall Woods State Park on Facebook.
