Annual Passes to our Core PreserveThe Lula Lake Annual Pass is your ticket into our Core Preserve during our public access dates (typically first and last weekends of the month)! An annual pass allows you to visit during any Open Gate Days listed here without making a reservation.
Your Annual Pass is valid for (1) vehicle and is good for 12 months from day of transaction. The cost is $150 and helps Lula Lake preserve natural and historic landscapes through conservation, education, and low-impact recreation. The pass is only valid once it is received in the mail (not the day of transaction). Simply plan your visit on any of the open dates listed here, arrive without making a reservation, and show our staff your pass - it doesn't matter if we are sold out! You'll be directed to priority parking for pass holders. Please read our quick facts and FAQs below to learn more. For annual pass renewals and other questions, please contact Matthew at [email protected] to reserve your pass number for another year. When you renew, you keep your same pass for another year of adventures. |
So now you’ve purchased your annual pass, how do you use it?
It’s simple really, once you’ve received the physical Annual Pass in the mail, first make sure you put it in your car! We wouldn’t want you to make the drive out to visit and forget your pass!
If you are using your pass for the first time, and need a reminder, please address this with the Open Gate Day staff as they check you in.
For assistance and emergencies during open dates, please call 706-483-2628. This number is only monitored during open dates. Fore severe emergencies, please call 911.
It’s simple really, once you’ve received the physical Annual Pass in the mail, first make sure you put it in your car! We wouldn’t want you to make the drive out to visit and forget your pass!
- Hang the pass on your rearview mirror prior to entering Lula Lake Land Trust. This way its visually accessible for Lula Lake Staff to check you in.
- LAST ADMITTANCE FOR PASS HOLDERS IS 2:00 PM ET.
- As you pull into the Green Gates of Lula Lake Land Trust (located at 5000 Lula Lake Road, Lookout Mountain, GA 30750), a staff member will approach your vehicle and ask for the Annual Pass number located on your pass. Provide that number and the staff will validate your pass.
- Next, continue straight down the gravel road towards the meadow – please be mindful of other Open Gate Day attendees walking along the road you are driving down.
- Once you arrive at the “fork in the road” continue straight towards the Green Shed and Privy. Park near the other vehicles within reasonable proximity to the shed – if in the event this is full, please do your best to park in a spot that is not located in the grass, as we would like to keep the meadow as intact and enjoyable for all as much as possible.
- Please do not block other vehicles in or prevent access to the shed.
- Please remember that the property closes at 5:00pm, meaning gates lock and all in attendance must be off the property at 5:00pm EST.
- PLEASE DO NOT EXIT THROUGH THE ENTRANCE
- As you begin to exit the property, continue on the gravel road toward the paved exit – this can be found on our Core Preserve Map, but you might have additionally hiked past the steep and paved exit that is identified by a blue sign along the gravel road leading towards the Lake area.
- Exit going up the steep paved section.
- Stop once you see the blue sign on your right thanking you for visiting LLLT - the green metal gate swings inward and this provides a measurement of clearance for your vehicle.
- Please leave the gate closed but not locked.
- We’ll see you next visit, thanks for being active in your conservation community and for supporting Lula Lake Land Trust!
If you are using your pass for the first time, and need a reminder, please address this with the Open Gate Day staff as they check you in.
For assistance and emergencies during open dates, please call 706-483-2628. This number is only monitored during open dates. Fore severe emergencies, please call 911.
Plan Your Hiking Adventure:
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Suggested Hiking Routes:
The Out and Back (4.2 miles) +350 ft in elevation
Difficulty - EASY
Typical time spent: 2-3 hours
Directions: From the parking lot, hike down the gravel road paralleling the Rock Creek Watershed enveloped by Hemlocks and Rhododendrons for 1.5 miles at which you will arrive at Lula Lake. To continue to Lula Falls, keep going straight for another 1/10 of a mile, passing the Overlook and exit trail for the Falls- Old Lula Falls Trail *It is important to note that this trail is the exit of the Waterfall- Do not go down this trail.* To return back to your vehicle, turn back and head the same way you came. If you would like to visit the base of the falls, continue straight another 1/10 of a mile to the Lula Falls Trail. Take a Left down this trail - note it is very uneven and sometimes difficult to navigate and can be steep.
The Classic Loop (4.5 Miles) +700 ft in elevation
Difficulty – MODERATE
Typical time spent: 3-4 hrs
Directions: From the parking lot, hike down the gravel road for 1.5 miles at which you will arrive at Lula Lake. To continue to Lula Falls, keep going straight for another 1/10 of a mile, passing the Overlook and exit trail for the Falls- Old Lula Falls Trail *It is important to note that this trail is the exit of the Waterfall- Do not go down this trail.* Continue straight until you arrive to the Lula Falls Trail, take a left and begin your descent down to the base of the 120 foot waterfall. You can exit the falls by taking the steep Old Lula Falls Trail. As you top out, take a right and head back towards the Lake area. As you make your approach back towards the Lake area, take a left up the gravel road towards the Bluff Trail. Take the Bluff Trail until you reach the scenic vantage point overlooking Northeast Georgia and Chattanooga. After appreciating the view, continue your adventure by taking the Middle Trail. Continue on the middle trail for 1.1 miles until you come to the intersection where the Parking and Footbridge are located on your right. Cross the footbridge and you are now in the Meadow you passed as you began your hike. Take a left to continue .5 miles up the gravel road towards the parking lot where you began and where your vehicle is located.
Note- we suggest this route in this direction so that you are able to make the most of your Lula Lake Experience. If you are visiting our property to primarily visit the Lake, Waterfall, and Bluff features, we suggest you go this direction to ensure you visit those places first. However if it is your priority to visit the singletrack trails, choose your own adventure. It is important to evaluate your well being and your fellow hikers/riders energy levels, time, and predicted weather forecast after visiting each point of interest. Do not attempt to go to the base of the falls past 3:00 pm, you will not make it back to your vehicle by the properties closure time of 5:00 pm
Adventure Loop (6.1 miles) +825ft in elevation
Difficulty – MODERATE
Typical time spent: 3-5 hrs
Directions: From the parking lot, hike down the gravel road for 0.5 miles until you reach the meadow. Cross the foot bridge and take a right on South Creek, straight on Homestead, right on Turkey, left on Bluff, Straight on High Adventure, right on Gravel Road, left on Lula Falls, left on Old Falls, right on Gravel Road, left on Connector, right on North Creek, right on Ford, left on Gravel Road. What to expect: The same views as the Classic but add a bit more adventure.
Mountain Bike Loop (8.7 Miles) +900 ft of elevation
Difficulty – ADVANCED
Typical time spent: 4-6 hours
Directions: Head North on the Gravel Road, right on Bluff, right on Turkey, right on Jedi, left on Middle, left on Turkey, right on Homestead, straight on South Creek, left on Middle, left on Ford, right on North Creek, right on Connector, left on Middle, left on Bluff, left on Gravel Road. What to expect: This is a tough route that combines long climbs, technical rock gardens, and fast singletrack.
The Out and Back (4.2 miles) +350 ft in elevation
Difficulty - EASY
Typical time spent: 2-3 hours
Directions: From the parking lot, hike down the gravel road paralleling the Rock Creek Watershed enveloped by Hemlocks and Rhododendrons for 1.5 miles at which you will arrive at Lula Lake. To continue to Lula Falls, keep going straight for another 1/10 of a mile, passing the Overlook and exit trail for the Falls- Old Lula Falls Trail *It is important to note that this trail is the exit of the Waterfall- Do not go down this trail.* To return back to your vehicle, turn back and head the same way you came. If you would like to visit the base of the falls, continue straight another 1/10 of a mile to the Lula Falls Trail. Take a Left down this trail - note it is very uneven and sometimes difficult to navigate and can be steep.
The Classic Loop (4.5 Miles) +700 ft in elevation
Difficulty – MODERATE
Typical time spent: 3-4 hrs
Directions: From the parking lot, hike down the gravel road for 1.5 miles at which you will arrive at Lula Lake. To continue to Lula Falls, keep going straight for another 1/10 of a mile, passing the Overlook and exit trail for the Falls- Old Lula Falls Trail *It is important to note that this trail is the exit of the Waterfall- Do not go down this trail.* Continue straight until you arrive to the Lula Falls Trail, take a left and begin your descent down to the base of the 120 foot waterfall. You can exit the falls by taking the steep Old Lula Falls Trail. As you top out, take a right and head back towards the Lake area. As you make your approach back towards the Lake area, take a left up the gravel road towards the Bluff Trail. Take the Bluff Trail until you reach the scenic vantage point overlooking Northeast Georgia and Chattanooga. After appreciating the view, continue your adventure by taking the Middle Trail. Continue on the middle trail for 1.1 miles until you come to the intersection where the Parking and Footbridge are located on your right. Cross the footbridge and you are now in the Meadow you passed as you began your hike. Take a left to continue .5 miles up the gravel road towards the parking lot where you began and where your vehicle is located.
Note- we suggest this route in this direction so that you are able to make the most of your Lula Lake Experience. If you are visiting our property to primarily visit the Lake, Waterfall, and Bluff features, we suggest you go this direction to ensure you visit those places first. However if it is your priority to visit the singletrack trails, choose your own adventure. It is important to evaluate your well being and your fellow hikers/riders energy levels, time, and predicted weather forecast after visiting each point of interest. Do not attempt to go to the base of the falls past 3:00 pm, you will not make it back to your vehicle by the properties closure time of 5:00 pm
Adventure Loop (6.1 miles) +825ft in elevation
Difficulty – MODERATE
Typical time spent: 3-5 hrs
Directions: From the parking lot, hike down the gravel road for 0.5 miles until you reach the meadow. Cross the foot bridge and take a right on South Creek, straight on Homestead, right on Turkey, left on Bluff, Straight on High Adventure, right on Gravel Road, left on Lula Falls, left on Old Falls, right on Gravel Road, left on Connector, right on North Creek, right on Ford, left on Gravel Road. What to expect: The same views as the Classic but add a bit more adventure.
Mountain Bike Loop (8.7 Miles) +900 ft of elevation
Difficulty – ADVANCED
Typical time spent: 4-6 hours
Directions: Head North on the Gravel Road, right on Bluff, right on Turkey, right on Jedi, left on Middle, left on Turkey, right on Homestead, straight on South Creek, left on Middle, left on Ford, right on North Creek, right on Connector, left on Middle, left on Bluff, left on Gravel Road. What to expect: This is a tough route that combines long climbs, technical rock gardens, and fast singletrack.
Don't just visit... make a difference!
Did you know that Lula Lake is preserved through donations from generous supporters? These Heroes on Conservation are responsible for preserving the natural beauty that will take your breath away during your visit. Through support of donations, we have helped protect 12,000 acres for going on 26 years. Find out how you can make a difference by visiting our webpage here or emailing our Director of Development, Matthew, at [email protected].
Did you know that Lula Lake is preserved through donations from generous supporters? These Heroes on Conservation are responsible for preserving the natural beauty that will take your breath away during your visit. Through support of donations, we have helped protect 12,000 acres for going on 26 years. Find out how you can make a difference by visiting our webpage here or emailing our Director of Development, Matthew, at [email protected].
Enhance your hiking experience!
Download the iNaturalist app before your visit to enhance your hiking experience. With this app, you can ID any plant, animal, or fungi you find along your hiking journey at Lula Lake's Core Preserve! Perfect for educating children, friends, or even yourself while you enjoy the beauty of our Core Preserve.
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Quick Facts
Do pass holders need a reservation?
Do I get a new pass when I renew?
Is there Handicap Parking?
What can we bring with us?
Can I swim in Lula Lake?
Can I bring my dog?
Can I bring my mountain bike to Open Gate Day?
Are trail maps available for purchase?
Is there a policy on Photography or Drones?
In case of emergencies while on property:
How can I contact the Lula Lake Land Trust with any questions?
- Lula Lake Land Trust does not discriminate nor does it allow discrimination on the basis of age, ancestry, disability, gender identity, marital status, nationality, political belief, race, religious belief, sex, sexual orientation, or veteran status..
- Lula Lake's Core Preserve is located at 5000 Lula Lake Road, Lookout Mountain Georgia
- All visitors must check in at the kiosk before hiking
- All visitors are expected to be leaving the property no later than 5:00pm
- All visitors should plan for a remote outdoor experience (carry water, wear sturdy hiking shoes, pack a rain jacket, be aware of physical abilities)
- Picnicking is allowed in three primary areas; near the footbridge in the meadow area, at the lake, and on the bluff - grills are available.
- Dogs are welcome on a leash, but please pick up after your pet.
- There is no swimming in Lula Lake at any time and please refrain from swimming dogs.
- Please do not attempt to visit the base of the waterfall after 3:30p.m. - you will not make the 5:00p.m. closing time.
- There is no parking on Lula Lake Road at any time - citations will be issued.
- Pack out what you pack in. There are very limited trash facilities. Thanks for keeping Lula Lake clean!
Do pass holders need a reservation?
- Nope!
Do I get a new pass when I renew?
- No, you keep the same pass to use for another year.
Is there Handicap Parking?
- There is limited handicap parking close to Lula Lake and Lula Fall. it is still a short walk over uneven terrain. Lula Lake makes no claims to be handicap accessible. Please exercise good judgement and know limitations.
What can we bring with us?
- All visitors should plan for a remote outdoor experience. Carry water, wear sturdy hiking shoes, pack a rain jacket, use sunscreen and be aware of physical abilities. The easiest hike to the Lake and Falls is a 4.2 mile round trip. Be prepared. If you are planning a picnic, it must be packed in and out by foot or bike.
Can I swim in Lula Lake?
- No, we do not allow swimming in Lula Lake. You're more than welcome to wade in the creek and get in the water at the base of Lula Falls.
Can I bring my dog?
- Absolutely! As long as your dog is leashed and you clean up after it, your dog is allowed into Lula Lake's Core Preserve.
Can I bring my mountain bike to Open Gate Day?
- Yes.
- No.
Are trail maps available for purchase?
- Trail maps are available free of charge. There are large trail maps on information kiosks throughout the preserve. There are downloadable trail maps on this web page.
Is there a policy on Photography or Drones?
- Yes. Take beautiful pictures but leave only footprints. Wedding photography can be arranged through one of our preferred vendors please see the list here: https://www.lulalake.org/photography-at-lula-lake.html. Drones are not allowed during Open Gate Days out of respect for other visitors.
In case of emergencies while on property:
- For serious emergencies while on property during Open Gate Day - call 911
- Lost on a trail or need assistance while on property during Open Gate Day - call 706-483-2628
How can I contact the Lula Lake Land Trust with any questions?
- Questions can be answered prior to Open Gate Days by calling 706-820-0520, 8:30am - 4:00pm, Monday through Friday. If you reach voice mail, please leave a message and we will get back to you. We do not monitor phones or social media on weekends and cannot answer specific "day of" questions.