Lookout Mountain Resort Pairs Hiking Trails with Hotel Comforts Near Cloudland Canyon

Most hikers in the Southeast head straight for the Smokies, Blue Ridge Mountains or Appalachian Trail. Those spots draw crowds for good reason, with endless trails, waterfalls, trout streams and overlooks.

Lookout Mountain in northwest Georgia stands out as an overlooked gem. Cloudland Canyon State Park ranks among the top draws there. Just across the state line in Alabama, DeSoto State Park and Little River Canyon deliver similar views and hikes.

The author once shared a camping itinerary for the area. Readers praised it but often requested hot showers and real beds after a day outdoors. This piece offers a resort solution: Cloudland at McLemore, perched atop Lookout Mountain near Cloudland Canyon.

Golf Digest praised the resort's 18th hole on The Highlands course. "Few anywhere are more memorable or more resplendent than this one," the magazine said. The author does not golf but appreciated the views.

The couple booked two nights at the resort. A massive wooden door opens to McLemore Cove, a valley between Lookout and Pigeon mountains. The husband hit the zen fitness center with weights, cardio, a Peloton room and water rowing machines. The author relaxed at the infinity pool with a cocktail and mountain vista.

Dinner at Auld Alliance called for a dress over the usual T-shirt, pants and boots. The filet mignon and mashed potatoes hit the spot. The potatoes, a Scottish dish called rumbledethumps, packed buttery flavor. Server Nico sorted out the author's garbled names like tweedledees or humpty-dumpties. A Scotch Old Fashioned capped the meal.

The next day brought Open Gate Days at Lula Lake Land Trust, an 8,000-acre protected watershed. Tickets cost $16 per vehicle for first and last weekends of the month. The couple, familiar with Cloudland Canyon trails, discovered this hidden spot.

Heavy rain hit during the 7.5-mile hike. They spotted a woman in a T-shirt, shorts and tie-dyed Crocs under a trail map. Rain eased at Lula Falls, a 120-foot drop. A half-mile detour led to the base amid rock formations.

A 20-something woman took their photo but zoomed too close, cropping out the falls. A second passerby got the shot right. Torrential rain soaked their clothes on the bluffs, though KEEN waterproof boots kept feet dry.

The rain cleared for views of Chattanooga Valley from the Bluff Trail. Mountain biking trails and dog-friendly policies round out options. The couple plans to bring their German Shepherd next time.

Back at the resort, happy hour at Pocket Cafe served two free wines, beers or cocktails per guest. Golfers discussed The Highlands, The Keep and the free six-hole Cairn course for guests. A one-mile hiking trail led to the famed 18th hole.

Morning fog added atmosphere to the property trail. The resort offers bikes and plans rock climbing areas. After rainy hikes, the hot shower, dry clothes, bourbon and comfortable bed proved welcome.

Camping still has its place, but the resort appeals for post-hike recovery.