It's a steep climb from Mountain City to the top of Black Rock Mountain State Park. This lofty park, named for the dark member of the mica family (biotite), is located on the Eastern Continental Divide and is the highest state park in Georgia. Located west of U.S. Route 441, the park offers several hiking trails, picnic areas, rental cottages and campgrounds.
A side road drops sharply to the north from the park's entrance road and leads to Black Rock Lake. This secluded 17 acre lake, formed by an earthen dam, makes this area a great family get-away. A fishing pier sets young anglers over the water, putting bass, sunfish, catfish and trout within reach. The three-quarter mile Black Rock Lake Trail encircles the lake, passing by a few enticing streams and small waterfalls, the perfect spot to spend an afternoon.
The spire of Taylor Chapel Baptist Church reaches up through the trees, toward the cool, early morning sky. Calm waters reflect the lake access road, and Georgia's Blue Ridge Mountains.