March 17, 2026
Yonah Preserve Trails
near Cleveland, GA
Sure, it was a cold start at 31°F but it ended up at 44°F with sunny skies and very little wind. Considering the previous day's storms and winds, the trail was in great condition except for one large pine blowdown. With two of our hikers carrying trusty small saws, our path was cut through the trail. A disappointment was our access to the cascade and falls which was posted as prohibited by the park. We respected that posting. Too bad, but check the photos for what we might have seen. No wildflowers today, but it was still a pleasant day for a hike with such a great group of hardy hikers.
Today's Hikers: Charles Hawkins, Dave Norton, Vic Robson, Londa Sprinkle, Betty Smith, Matt Henderson & Toby, Pam Hembree, Gregg Nuessly, Jenny Bell, Gerald Richardson, Mary Lu Norton, Beth Hawkins, Renée Corbett & Mike Bell.
The route
5.8 mi · 381 ft climbing · 3h 3m out, 2h 28m walking · 2.3 mph moving
Elevation
Hover over the profile to see the elevation and steepness. Your position will be shown on the map.
- Steepness
- Gentle under 5%
- Moderate 5–10%
- Steep 10–15%
- Very steep over 15%
17 photos are shown on the map where they were taken — click one to see it full size.
Photos (17)
Turner Reservoir from the northeast picnic area looking toward the dam. Today's Hikers (L-R) Back: Charles, Dave, Vic, Londa, Betty, Matt, Pam, Mystery Hiker (aka Gregg), Jenny, Gerald, Mary Lu, Beth; Front: Mike, Renee & Toby A nice place to hike or bike. Catching up with everyone before getting started. A scenic view of Turner Reservoir as we get started. Nothing like down to keep you warm. A view to the north from the point on Turner Reservoir. An easy crossing over this branch feeding the reservoir. So much for a clear trail today. Our "mystery hiker" checks out the blowdown. Our "mystery" hiker and Vic working on each side of the blowdown with folding saws to clear a way. Happy hikers after the trail is cleared. Thanks "mystery hiker" (aka Gregg) and Vic! A view up Turner Creek as we cross the bridge. Let's find that cascade & falls. No visit to the cascade and Yonah Preserve Falls today. From a visit three years ago, this is what the falls look like But most disappointingly, this is what Yonah Preserve Falls look like in the winter. Photo by Mark Oleg. Oh well, it was still a good hike. Let's head back.