LAFAYETTE, Ga. — It was meant to be a place to take in the panoramic views of Georgia's mountains and appreciate the changing colors of the leaves, but someone spoiled the view with obscene messages, officials say. Now, the lookout in north Georgia is closed until further notice.
The US Forest Service that manages the Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest made the announcement over the weekend.
"We are sad to announce that vandalism means that Johns Mountain Overlook Road will be closed indefinitely," they posted on their Facebook page. "Please find alternative destinations to view #FallColors until repairs can be made."
Images shared - some too graphic to post, according to the Forest Service - showed graffiti painted on wooden platforms and the walls of buildings.
Photos: John's Mountain Lookout vandalism closes park indefinitely
According to the Forest Service, vandalism like this not only ruins the views for everyone else, it costs precious money and resources meant to maintain the facilities at those parks.
'When senseless damage like this vandalism and destruction of public facilities occurs, it takes away from our capacity to make progress addressing other critical maintenance needs," they said.
The US Forest issued a plea asking visitors to the parks practice "leave no trace" principles - take only photos and leave only footprints.
As for anyone else tempted to vandalize the spaces meant to be appreciated for their natural beauty, the Forest Service left this message: "This Land is YOUR Land... Don't Trash it!"
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