Solar eclipse reaches totality in Georgia

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Large crowds remain all across northeast Georgia, including Rabun County. Several other parts of Georgia experienced the sun being completely covered, including Helen, Brasstown Bald, Blairsville and Hiawassee. 

Parks in north Georgia quickly filled up early Monday as visitors staked out their viewing spots. Tallulah Gorge State Park began turning cars away before 8 a.m. due to its parking lot quickly filling up. The park is located in Rabun County, which was in the path of totality.

Large crowds also gathered at Sanford Stadium in Athens to view the eclipse. 

MORE: Tourism spikes in Rabun County for solar eclipse

COVERAGE: Helen, Ga.

"We're just excited, said Frank Harlow, from Smyrna. "This is a once in a lifetime thing."

"It's not every day you see a total eclipse so for the kids, this is something they can see," said David Henderson, a Florida resident.

Thousands traveled to the North Georgia mountain town for what was billed as one of the best spots to view the solar eclipse.

Folks from near and far began arriving over the weekend. By mid-afternoon, city officials estimated some 10 thousand people were in town for the big event.

"I've had our glasses since June ordered them a long time ago knowing we were going to be here and going to do this," said Linda Mickey from Florida.

Clutching their solar eclipse glasses, eager observers took their positions, periodically scanning the sky.