DIRECTIONS TO THE HURRICANE CREEK TRACT WILDLIFE CONSERVATION AREA From Dahlonega take the Morrison Moore Connector going toward Dawsonville (Routes 9, and 52) From the stoplight at the Mt. Hope Cemetery go 3.5 miles to the intersection where highway 52 leaves highway 9 (toward Ellijay, GA), turn right at the intersection. On highway 52 continue for 2.2 miles to Frank Christian Road (on left, about 0.6 miles past the Etowah River Bridge). Turn left on Frank Christian Road and proceed 0.5 miles to Sheep Wallow Road. Turn right on Sheep Wallow Road and go 0.9 miles (pavement ends) to River Highlands Road. Turn left onto River Highlands Road (a gravel road) and go 1.25 miles (at about 1 mile there is a horse barn on the left, go 0.25 miles further to where road forks) and take left fork. Proceed straight for 0.6 miles to where road forks again. You will pass a road that branches off to the right and then another that goes to the left, but continue straight to the Y-fork. Take right fork onto property.You will see the entrance sign. Park vehicle in the Visitor Parking area.
Hurricane Creek Tract can also be accessed from Chase Run off Hwy 9 near Pine Valley, Lumpkin County.
View Larger Map BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE HURRICANE CREEK TRACT It consists of approximately 62 wooded acres. The northern and eastern boundaries are bordered by the Etowah River. A significant creek, Hurricane Creek, flows through the southern portion of the property, the mouth of which empties into the Etowah River on the property. At one point the creek flows through an 8 foot diameter culvert which is covered with dirt and serves as a bridge to access the property south of the creek. The only vehicular access to the property is from highway 52 to Frank Christian Road, to Sheep Wallow Road, then on River Highlands Road to the property entrance. The University System does not own any portion of the access route to the property, it is all public and private roadway. The last mile and three quarters is dirt road. 96 species of plants have been identified on the area 73 species of vertebrates have been identified on the area IMPROVEMENTS: A parking area was constructed and is being maintained as a green space. Restroom Facility with adjoining storage shed Bulletin Board (with roof) Solar-powered motion-sensitive lights (3) Utility House (8’ x 8’) Outdoor Classroom Shelter (with podium, 2 tables, and seating for 24) Pump House (with Honda Water Pump) and a 2” underground water line leading to a seasonal wetland area Over four miles of walking trails were installed to provide easy access to all portions of the property. Benches have been installed along the river trail. Trash receptacles are in two locations. Large tables (uncovered) are provided in two locations for multiple uses. An entrance sign, boundary signs, trail signs, and other information signs have been installed. A number of bird nest boxes, bat boxes, squirrel nest boxes, owl boxes, and a couple of wood duck boxes have been installed. Several foot bridges have been constructed along the trails. |
Directions to and Brief Overview of Hurricane Creek Wildlife Preserve |