Hidden Pond Songbird Tail is one of the short hikes that was established by the Corps of Engineers. It takes less than a mile to trek this short trail with little elevation. The site is situated in the Reregulation Dam Recreation Area right on the west section of Carters Lake. Carters Lake is also a known recreation spot for individuals who want to take a break from some frequented areas on this trail. Along the way you will pass Georgia Road’s remnant that was built back in 1804 during the Treaty of Telico. After Andre Jackson and his battalion did some work on this road in 1819, this had then been called the old Federal Highway.
The Cherokee and farmers in the past have also used some trees along this trail as path markers. On the Trail of Tears, the Cherokee left this area and by 1977 a dam was created which then created a reregulation form near the Coosawattee River and Carters Lake. The trail moves along hugging the dam for at the reregulation pool.
From the south parking lot pace towards the marked trailhead found at the entrance of Carters Lake Dam. Just beyond this marker the trail splits into two paths. Take the right trail across the bridge as the treadway ascends to a moderately steep hill. From here the path returns to the original trail and then you will cross a longer bridge that takes you a closer view of the marsh. Along this path you will see several bird species including an osprey, wild turkey, and a hawk. Other wildlife such as raccoon, turtles, opossum, and white-tailed deer can be spotted here. Move past this and then turn right at the end of the bridge as the footpath swerves back to the original trail.
The end of the saddleback that formed Carters Lake can be seen at your left. Continue along this path reaching the beaver pond which was built by the Corps of Engineers with multiple viewing blinds for bird watching. This lake is home to many species of bird that inhabited the area for several centuries. There are great spots in this South Regulation Dam Park that is best for fishing and picnics. However, if you opt for a longer trek, there are other trails nearby such as the Big Acorn Nature Trail and the Rock Nature Trail which are both accessible at the Carters Lake Visitor Center.
